A folding ladder to the attic is a type of compact auxiliary devices for climbing into utility rooms country house. Quite often the stationary design of staircases for attic floors It looks simply irrational - you don’t have to use it often, or it takes up a lot of living space, which, as always, is sorely lacking.
Many people are familiar with these circumstances. Previously, they arose when it was necessary to climb into the attic, where, according to established traditions, old things were stored that were no longer needed, but it was a pity to throw them away. Of course, you can use a regular stepladder to go up and down, but for greater convenience and safety there is another solution - a folding ladder to the attic.
Significantly saves living space at home. It is located in a specially equipped ceiling opening of the interfloor ceiling.
A folding attic ladder is functional, compact and very easy to use, and the variety of models and available options for this design allows you to choose exactly the type that is ideal for the specific operating conditions of any country house.
Among the variety of folding attic systems, three main configurations are most in demand:
- lever;
- claw-shaped;
- telescopic.
Lever designs
Lever or three-knee systems consist of three folding parts. The first part (elbow) is attached to the hatch cover, and the next two, using springs and a special mechanism, are sequentially stacked on top of each other.
In order to install the ladder, you need to use a long rod with a hook to hook the ring installed on the outside of the hatch and pull it down. After the hatch opens, the structure itself, under the influence of its own weight, will unfold into the desired position.
For ease of disassembly and assembly, the system is equipped with special lever mechanisms that help the mobile flight to smoothly unfold and fold into the stairwell. The hatch cover is equipped with latches, which are designed to secure the entire device in the interfloor ceiling.
Claw stairs
The claw-shaped design of the march received its name from the shape of its elements. This type of device folds like an accordion, and they are also called pantograph ladders. The basis of such systems is a multi-link hinge mechanism, which is adjusted by springs.
When the hatch is open, the device stretches down and is fixed to the floor using a special spring stop. When the mechanism is removed from the stop, the structure is assembled to its original position under the action of springs.
Telescopic devices
The telescopic system, taking into account its operational properties, is made only from lightweight aluminum profile.
Therefore, attic metal folding ladders with a telescopic system are separate sections made of profile aluminum pipe, which are sequentially inserted into each other.
- The entire structure is mounted in the manhole cover, and, if necessary, easily extends into the working position.
- Stability is provided by clamps, located at the junction of sections.
- Number of parts may vary, depending on the required height and model of the selected device.
- For safe operation, the mechanism is designed in such a way that it eliminates arbitrary axial displacement of sections.
- Special latches firmly fix the structure in the folded position.
- To unfold the ladder, simply pull for a special rod (rod) provided for these purposes.
How to choose a folding ladder
Before choosing and purchasing an attic ladder, you need to learn a few rules:
- The design should be selected taking into account the prepared opening in the interfloor ceiling. And for this you need to know optimal sizes for this type of stairs.
- The minimum recommended opening size is 500–600 mm, but according to the experience of some manufacturers, 0.6–1.20 m is better. You can consult the seller about what sizes are currently on sale and adjust your opening according to the selected template.
- The second necessary parameter is the height and angle of inclination (“reach”) of the device in working condition. To do this, you need to know how often the stairs will be used, and its future location (length of the room, furniture, etc.). The most acceptable and convenient to use design is considered to be a design with a height of 2.80–3.5 m.
Tips: If the room height is more than 3.5 m, for safety reasons it is not recommended to install a folding attic ladder. In this case, you need to think about installing a stationary economy class staircase, which has a larger angle of inclination and is equipped with railings.
As is customary, attic systems are sold with ready-made dimensions, so you need to provide for a situation where the required size may not be available. In this case, as mentioned above, it is necessary to prepare an opening to the finished dimensions, or order right size individually. In the latter option, the price of the structure will be higher.
Metal folding ladders are best for outbuildings, and for a country house it is most appropriate wooden structure, which, with a certain finishing, can become an interior decoration (see video in this article).
Attic systems are unpretentious in operation, and if you have the necessary tools and instructions for assembling a specific architecture, you can easily install them yourself.
Assembling a folding wooden ladder
Before assembly finished design, you need to familiarize yourself with some basic safety rules:
- The use of these structures for plasterboard floors is not recommended;
- disassembly of the component elements of the mechanism during installation is prohibited;
- Do not unscrew or adjust the fastenings to the hatch;
- Test operation of the device is prohibited until all elements are installed.
Do-it-yourself folding stairs to the attic - instructions:
- Installation attic system performed by two people. First, with everything necessary tool and with strong twine, rises to the second floor, and the second remains below.
- We check the dimensions of the opening, which should be 2 cm larger than the box.
- To support the kit, tie two safety bars to the box during installation. Moreover, the initial lower level of the box should be slightly lower than the ceiling level (see photo).
- Then, using prepared wooden wedges, align the level of the ceiling and the mechanism box.
- Open the ladder and check the serviceability of all elements.
- After this, lift the device to its original position and begin installing the box.
- Before starting installation, check that the lengths of the diagonals between the opposite corners of the box match.
- In the gap between the structure and interfloor ceiling, in the places where the screws are installed, insert the strips to fit the box tightly to the opening.
- Screw the frame to the base of the opening with screws (8x80).
- The gap between the box and the opening must be filled with foam.
- Open the device and check the correct operation of all mechanisms, and adjust them if necessary.
- The unfolded structure should form a straight line, and the lower part of the bowstrings should fit snugly to the floor.
A folding attic ladder can have the most various designs and improvements. It can be equipped with dustproof covers, railings, electric motors and a remote control that operates the automatic folding and unfolding mechanism of the system. Therefore, depending on the design chosen, the price of such improvements can vary widely.
Climbing into the attic or attic can be made very convenient. The most suitable option for this would be attic folding stairs, which combine compactness with practicality.
Peculiarities
The main feature of folding staircase structures is their compactness. It is thanks to it that you can free up maximum space, which is often so lacking. Most of the time it is folded and does not interfere with movement at all, preserving the beauty of the interior.
Modern stairs to the attic look even more attractive when unfolded. They can easily transform any space, making it more interesting. With all this, folding stairs cope with their main functions perfectly.
Folding ladders are made from various materials and have many subspecies, which allows you to easily choose the most suitable option. Moreover, all models of stairs are easy to use. Modern attic ladders are very easy to reach and secure in the desired position.
Retractable staircase structures are especially popular in private homes, where constant access to the attic is a necessity. They are much more convenient than stepladders or transformers, which need to be carried and installed, which is very difficult.
Another feature of the attic structure is that it is easy to make yourself. Moreover, even an old wooden staircase can be turned into a comfortable attic.
Advantages and disadvantages
There are a lot of advantages to folding stairs to the attic, so first of all It is worth highlighting the main or brightest of them:
- The compactness of folding staircase structures is one of their main advantages. Moreover, such stairs can take up a minimum of space in any form: folded and unfolded.
- The ease of use of a folding ladder is undeniable. It literally “invisibly” waits for the hour of use. Then in a matter of seconds it can be unfolded and used for its intended purpose. At the same time, convenience and safety can be increased with the help of railings or overlays on metal steps.
- The lightness of the staircase structure is a huge plus, because sometimes a fragile girl needs to cope with it. This advantage significantly increases the popularity of folding models, which are much lighter compared to other ladder options.
- Ease of use is another advantage. Simply pull it out from under the hatch using special mechanisms, and then it’s also easy to push it back. Installing or completely removing the folding structure is also easy. The steps are so simple that even those who have not done anything similar can do them.
- The invisibility of the folding structure when not needed can also be considered one of its main advantages. After all, most stairs are bulky and immediately catch your eye, often disrupting the beauty of the space.
- The attractive price is another advantage. Even completely ready-made systems are inexpensive.
Of course, like any other ladder, a folding one has some disadvantages:
A large angle of inclination of a folding ladder is not always convenient, especially if you need to lift quite heavy or large things along it. They are also not suitable if you often have to go up and down into the attic.
The load capacity of folding stairs often does not exceed 150-200 kilograms.
Difficulties self-made Some types of attic structures are due to complex and very precise calculations, as well as the mandatory presence of special tools.
Kinds
Retractable structures can be divided into types or models depending on the type of device, their appearance or the material from which they are made. For example, the type of devices allows us to distinguish the following types:
- folding;
- folding (leg);
- sliding (telescopic, sectional).
It is partly clear from the name that these types of transformers differ in the layout principle. To better understand them, it is worth considering the features of each of these types.
Folding is the most interesting option. This design includes several sections at once, which, when opened, gradually extend to the floor. The movement is carried out due to special hinges and hinges. Card loops on the side allow you to securely fix the structure on the wall when folded. When the staircase is unfolded, its appearance resembles a regular staircase due to its inclination angle of 45 degrees.
Among the disadvantages folding design We should highlight its massiveness, not very attractive appearance and the need for a considerable amount of free space for layout.
The folding design has earned its popularity due to its compact size when folded. The most striking model of such a staircase was the scissor staircase, which is also called an “accordion”. Just by the name, the principle of operation of such a staircase becomes clear. When folded, it looks like a small block, and when unfolded, it unfolds like an accordion. This design unfolds very simply, you just have to pull the bottom step towards you.
The only disadvantage of the model is the unreliability of the interblock fastenings. Scissor models of folding stairs require careful handling and regular lubrication of the mechanisms located between the segments.
Among modern models There are even automatic folding scissor structures that are very convenient to use. No physical effort is required to pull them out.
Sliding transformable structures represent several flights of stairs, stacked or superimposed on one another. Among their advantages, it is worth noting the minimum storage space and low cost compared to other types. The convenience of sliding structures is also due to the flat steps on which the foot becomes stable without slipping
Sliding stairs are divided into two types:
- Telescopic. Telescopic structures are characterized by the extension of sections, like a nesting doll. It turns out that in tubes with a larger diameter, smaller tubes are attached, and in them even smaller ones. The folded state of the structure is held in place by clamps located on the outside metal beams. To fold the structure, it will be enough just to loosen the latch. This design is extremely simple to unfold. The disadvantage of this model can be considered problems that arise with the clamps over time. Often the metal fasteners jam, and the structure no longer straightens easily.
- Sectional. They are somewhat similar to scissor ladders, but in them the segments are stacked on top of each other rather than pressed together. During the unfolding process, the sections are straightened and then fixed in a certain position. The number of sections in such a staircase can be two or even three. This type of staircase requires a stable platform to rest on the floor.
Materials
The materials from which folding stairs are made play a significant role. After all, they must provide staircases with strength, make them light and at the same time inexpensive. If we adequately consider all these important parameters, then it becomes clear that best materials for attic stairs - wood and metal.
Wooden stairs are mainly made from trees coniferous species, for example, pine trees. Their advantages are reliability and low cost. Moreover, such stairs are not difficult to manufacture and assemble independently. Another advantage of such stairs is that they give the interior a special rustic flair.
The disadvantages of wooden attic stairs are due to their massiveness, short service life and low load capacity (up to 100 kilograms).
It is worth considering that wooden models still have metal parts. This means they will need additional care eg regular lubrication.
Folding and sectional types stairs
Metal folding stairs are much more common among modern models. Moreover, stairs made of steel or aluminum are absolutely in no way inferior to their wooden counterparts. Price metal stairs not much higher, and the load capacity reaches 200 kilograms. Moreover, such stairs are characterized by high strength, durability, high stability to mechanical influence. Aluminum stairs have one more additional benefit in the form of low weight.
The only disadvantage of metal stairs is the difficulty of making them yourself. This is due to the fact that similar works require welding equipment and appropriate knowledge and skills.
Prominent representatives of metal attic ladders include telescopic and scissor ladders. Moreover, telescopic ones are most often made of aluminum.
Combined models, made simultaneously from wood and metal, are often found and have advantages characteristic of both of these materials.
Dimensions
Regardless of the type of staircase in design or material, it should be as comfortable as possible and at the same time completely safe. When choosing an attic staircase or designing it, it is worth considering a number of parameters:
- The flight of stairs should have an optimal width of 60 - 70 centimeters.
- The structure should have an inclination angle varying from 45 to 75 degrees.
- The number of steps on the attic stairs should be optimal. It is best if there are about fifteen of them.
- The thickness of the steps is 2 centimeters and is considered the most convenient and suitable for a folding staircase structure.
- The steps of the stairs should be located along the entire span at the same distance from each other (within 17-22 centimeters).
- The horizontal part of the step must be at least 20 centimeters. This will provide additional convenience when frequent use stairs.
- The dimensions of the staircase hatch should be slightly larger than the opening in order to cover it.
How to choose?
When choosing a staircase to the attic, the first thing to start with is to decide where exactly it will be located and measure the dimensions of the hatch.
The height of the room is very important when choosing stairs. In a three-meter room, a staircase 250 centimeters high is unlikely to be useful. It should be borne in mind that a structure designed for a large height can often be shortened if the height of the room is lower. To do this, it is enough to dismantle one or several last steps.
However, it is advisable that attic stair structures do not exceed a height of three meters so that the risk of injury does not increase.
When determining the size and location of the opening, special attention should also be paid to the ceiling. An obstacle to installing a ladder in a certain place may, for example, be reinforced concrete slab or wooden beam. If the overlap allows, then it is definitely better to give preference to models with a large hatch. They will have wider steps and a less steep climb.
The dimensions of the hatch are indicated in the passport finished product. This document also indicates the maximum distance by which it flies beyond the hatch when it is opened and closed. This characteristic especially important when placing stairs in small spaces.
When choosing a folding staircase made of metal, it is recommended to choose models with anti-slip pads on the steps. All parts of metal structures should be checked for corrosion protection, that is, they must be galvanized.
Wooden attic stair structures should be installed in areas that are not too dry or damp. This precaution will extend their service life. When inspecting a wooden structure, it is worth checking its integrity, dryness and absence of knots. It would be useful to clarify what protective mixtures the wood was treated with and what finishing coat used (most often paint or varnish).
Among modern models, you can choose both mechanical ones, which need to be unfolded by hand, and automatic ones with an electric drive.
When choosing, be sure to check the reliability of fasteners and mechanisms. Having finally decided on a particular model, you should find out the features of caring for it so that the entire structure remains in order for a long time.
First of all, you need to understand that the attic is most often used as warehouse. It is convenient to store temporarily unnecessary things on hand, or bulky, old items, as well as those used seasonally.
Therefore, to access the attic space, you do not need a permanent large structure that will take up quite a lot of space. There are special staircase mechanisms for access to the attic.
Features of attic stairs
- transformers (folding);
- stationary.
Both are convenient, easy to install, and most importantly, take up minimal space. Most the best option when such a mechanism is invisible or it is hidden in the interior. After all, things that will not be useful for a long time are put away in the far corner.
Drawing of a folding attic ladder on strings Folding structures
The range of manufacturers of folding stairs is quite wide; the price of the product depends on the material of manufacture and functionality.
The folding version for the attic is a structure of 3-4 sections that fold into each other and are converted into a compact unit located under the ceiling.
Thus, it can be easily unfolded if necessary, is stable, and climbing up will not be a problem. If the size of the room is small even for placing the bed and staircase structure together, then the folding version is definitely suitable in this case.
Drawing of a sliding attic ladder Transformers are driven by a special rod. It is activated when the hatch cover is opened, there are models with a remote control.
DIY folding ladder to the attic
It is not difficult to make a retractable staircase to the attic with your own hands, although you will have to put in some effort and patience. Such structures can be wooden or metal.
Before work, you need to make sure that the opening for the hatch cover is made and equipped correctly. Also prepare in advance the right tool, materials, including for strengthening the entrance to the attic.
Preparation
To work you will need:
To make a wooden staircase:
- wooden blocks;
- boards of suitable size;
- plywood;
- Styrofoam;
- polyethylene;
- canopies and hinges, lifting mechanism(purchased from the construction department);
- boards for steps, etc.;
- sealant (silicone or rubber).
A do-it-yourself folding staircase to the attic is made from almost the same materials as the beds.
To install hatches and stairs, it is best to use silicone or rubber-based sealant.
Staircase installation process
A hatch with a cover is being manufactured and installed. To do this, you need to measure the opening, which can be expanded (narrowed). You can use dimensions of 1 m. 30 cm x 1 m. 40 cm, but it all depends on the location of the opening relative to the boundaries of the room and if there are free dimensions of the ceiling surface.
After specifying the dimensions, a sketch is created on paper (as in the bed drawings), where the dimensions of the future staircase structure are indicated. Drawings help to avoid mistakes when cutting materials.
Mechanism of operation of a folding attic ladder The hatch frame is made first. It must be made securely reinforced, since the quality of the entire structure depends on it. We need to pay special attention to her.
A frame with right angles must be made by sawing off the corners, so that when the boards are joined to each other, a frame with right angles is obtained. After fitting onto the existing opening, the corners of the frame are coated with glue.
You can install temporary spacers until the glue dries. After the glue has dried, the frame is installed in the opening using nails (100 mm).
The finished product will be placed on top of the manhole cover. The lid can be made of plywood; polyethylene is placed between the sheets to prevent steam formation.
Diagram of a stationary staircase to the attic With ready-made canopies, the lid is attached to the frame. A convenient handle and a lifting mechanism are attached to the lid.
The folding staircase system is made from pre-measured beams. The bars of each section are shorter than the previous one, starting from the top. It is important to ensure that the assembled structure is in the form of a block of stairs and moves freely when closing the hatch in the opening. This is taken into account at the drawing stage.
The first thing that needs to be made is the hatch frame, into which the ladder itself will be mounted.
The steps are also made of beams, the sizes of the sections must be appropriate. On the inside of the string of beams (the side beams of the stairs), it is necessary to make cuts to securely fasten the rungs. The steps are placed in the cut-outs and secured with self-tapping screws.
The folding parts of the product are connected with ready-made loops.
The main components of the mechanisms of a folding attic ladder These hinges are attached so that the junction of the metal strips is exactly at the junction of the sections. Assembled structure attached to the hatch cover with metal corners.
At the end, the valve is made using ready-made fittings in the form of a spring or hinges. For some rooms, only a sliding model on the street side is suitable. Well, now there is even room left for a bed.
Sliding staircase
If there is no room left for a bed, use sliding structures stairs They take more less space, acting as a tram pantograph. By folding it, we get enough space, because everything fits on the hatch cover. To extend the mechanism, just open the hatch cover, and it will move into the desired position.
Drawing of a goose step staircase For sliding doors, only metal is used, due to the peculiarities of fastening elements and parts. The bonus of metal material is the ability to choose any paint color you like.
The telescopic design is of interest; you can weld it yourself.
Stationary option
If there is enough space, you can install stationary stairs for the attic. This method is best used only when the attic is used constantly, for example, during renovations. Stationary stairs are also distinguished by type. Exist:
- with one march;
- screw.
Staircase with one flight
The simplest option is a model with one flight (span), that is, it is made from floor to ceiling in one solid structure. The material is chosen from either metal or wood. All parts of the ladder must be secured to each other.
You can use the method of mounting on fillies. That is, with the help of wooden supports, the elements of the stairs are connected with wooden pegs. The trims should be aligned like this: one side is aligned straight, and the other is cut to fit the beam for the steps (stringers).
The board for the step must be at least 36 mm. The steps are attached to the stringers with self-tapping screws, and the joints are treated with glue. This simple option is suitable if there is no need for a bed nearby.
Main sizes components stationary attic ladder A single flight of stairs takes up too much space, but adjustments can be made. You can bend it at a right angle (saves space), or rotate it by a certain degree. This type is called rotary marching. There are also quarter reversible (90 degree angle) and semi reversible (180 degree angle).
If you place triangular wooden steps to the sides, and narrow ones alternately towards you, you will get a “duck step” design. In other words, step under the right and left foot.
Spiral staircase
Spiral staircase in the attic suitable for small room. It may not be as easy to use as a marching one, but it looks more interesting.
Moreover, it will not be used very often. They differ in:
- having supports in the form of a pillar in the center;
- steps away from the walls are fixed on a pole;
- made from a monolithic steel pillar, the steps rest on it.
The spiral staircase has much smaller dimensions than the flight staircase, so there will be room for a bed. For the load-bearing element, you can take a metal pipe onto which the steps will be attached by welding. wooden covering vertical stand secured with anchors. To attach the steps to the stand, holes are made on the narrow side of each step, similar to the stand. Next, the steps are installed using bushings taking into account the height of the vertical surface.
It is not advisable to use spiral staircases as attics due to the complexity of the design. However, aesthetically they will look impressive.
Washers are placed into horizontal surfaces and bushings to protect the wood from deformation. The bushings must be measured by adding the size of all washers. All subsequent steps after the first are laid as if overlapping and secured.
To calculate the dimensions of the elements, you need to prepare drawings in advance (as for the bed). Making a spiral staircase with your own hands will not create any difficulties; the question is more about time.
If the room dimensions are not suitable for indoor installation and for a bed, then stationary option installed on the street side. External structure can be larger in size, which means more convenient and safe. On the other hand, you can only get to the top from the outside, which is not very comfortable in winter, for example.
Calculation of a semi-spiral attic staircase Particularly popular are ladders, both internal and external. This type of hatch is the easiest to make - no additional reinforcements or hinges are needed. But there is an inconvenience to remove it every time, and besides, it takes up space during storage. This is the most budget option.
Staircase made of profile pipe
Such a structure can be made by welding or prefabricated (like assembling a bed). You can make a stationary and attached type, in the form of a straight, portable and screw structure.
For production, 16 cm channels and 4x4 cm sections are used. Load-bearing channels are attached to the beams by welding. Step blanks are made from the profile rectangular shape. These blanks are mounted on guides and welded to them.
Solid wood steps are laid on the frame and secured with self-tapping screws. And on the side of the guide channels, supports are welded onto which the handrails are installed. Vertical posts are attached to the steps.
You can watch a video that tells you how to properly make a folding staircase to the attic with your own hands.
The attic is rarely used, but the staircase leading to this room should be comfortable, compact and safe. Typically, home owners use an extension or stationary ladder installed on the street. To save space in the house, comfortable use and safe lifting, a folding system is installed.
Features and Benefits
The folding staircase in the house is designed to use the attic as needed. It is easy to use, since it can be brought into working condition without special effort, and also eliminates the need for release large area. The main feature of this system is that the principle of its use is similar to the principle of operation ladders. It is important to take into account not only a large number of advantages, but also some features.
Advantages.
- Safety. The folding ladder is stable and strong. At any time, regardless weather conditions, it is possible to safely climb into the attic. Some types of folding systems are equipped with steps and railings.
- Compactness. Compact design system allows you to save usable area in the room and in the attic. The unfolded state of the staircase requires little space.
- Ease of use. This type of product folds quickly and without much effort. There are ready-made electric drive design models.
- Easy to install. The kit for installing a folding ladder includes simple instructions. Following it, even a person without experience will not have difficulty installing the model. The system does not require additional reinforcement of walls, floors and ceilings. The lightness of the design allows you to easily move and install the product in another place.
- Economical. The finished system is cheaper than a stationary staircase. A folding model can be made at home.
- Aesthetics. The ladder is placed on a manhole cover in the ceiling surface, and a high-quality finish will maintain the appearance. The design is completely hidden, so it does not spoil the interior.
- Folding system The attic is removed, this is convenient when there are children in the house or the room area is small. The design is visible only during use, so there is no need to match the design to the interior.
Peculiarities.
- Some types of models are not always comfortable to use following criteria: steepness of the climb, size and number of steps. If the climb is too steep, it is uncomfortable to move with bulky objects in your hands.
- The presence of a hatch will compromise the tightness of the room. The attic needs to be insulated, which leads to additional expenses. In some factory design models, the hatch is equipped with a seal.
- The need for accurate calculations and skills to make your own stairs.
Varieties
The principle of operation of the ladder consists of several simple steps: opening the hatch cover, pulling the folded installation towards you. All components will be fixed and motionless. If you push the lower part up a little, the ladder will fold back into its original position. Finally, you need to close the hatch.
Electrically operated stairs have a simpler method of operation. To put them into working condition, you need to press the remote control button.
A staircase leading to the attic has a number of advantages: functionality, compactness and ease of use. The range of designs allows you to choose certain type, which is ideally suited to the parameters of the house. There are folding installations in the attic different types. They differ in their design.
One of the common varieties is “accordion”. This type of product has a small size, the folding principle works like an accordion bellows. The staircase is made of light metal, since its parts are movable, so it is important to take it into account maximum load using. After a while, it is recommended to lubricate the fasteners. The “accordion” is universal in that it can be extended up to certain size depending on the ceiling height.
The retractable ladder unfolds according to the telescopic principle. This product is characterized by ease of use. When folded, it is the smallest in comparison with other folding staircase systems. The structure is assembled from hollow metal (aluminum) tubes, which form sections with steps, which, when folded, fit into each other and are clamped with clamps. The model can consist of two, three or more sections.
Folding sectional staircase. It is popular among designs performed at home. The model is either folded like a book or booklet, or the sections overlap each other. Typically, the length of the first section matches the size of the manhole cover. The design is larger, but as reliable and safe as possible.
There is a staircase consisting of two sections. The first short part is fixed to the hatch, and the second - long - unfolds to the floor. This type of system is also called a transforming staircase.
System folding ladder the most difficult. The folding staircase to the attic consists of steps attached to a string. The staircase is as large in size and reliable as possible. It is most comfortable to use, since the angle of inclination is no more than 45 degrees. To create it yourself you need equipment and skills.
It is important to pay attention to preparing the room with the hatch. The area potentially occupied by the stairs is vacated. For safety, install a fence around the hatch in the attic or frame the folded model with a box.
Materials
The choice of material depends on the folding technology. Stairs can be made of metal (aluminium, stainless steel), tree or combination.
Wooden folding attic ladder eco-friendly and has an attractive appearance. It will look good in a house where the interior is made to look like wood. The positive qualities of the installation are its good tolerance to temperature changes and exposure to moisture. Negative qualities include the fire hazard of the product, and insects can also live in the wood.
The folding version of the ladder is made of solid wood. The parts are connected using a special technology. At the edges of the steps there are protrusions that are inserted into the gaps of the guides, the connection is fixed with glue. For the manufacture of spans, beams are chosen from solid coniferous species, beech or ash, for steps - from oak. The load capacity of the wooden folding unit is about 100 kilograms.
The metal folding ladder to the attic is made of metal that does not corrode. For the manufacture of complex design choose aluminum or steel. Main advantage aluminum system– simplicity of construction, so light and durable metal will last for many years. Steel products Available with a corrosion-resistant coating. Load capacity metal structure– 200 kilograms, this figure is much more than that of a wooden ladder.
The disadvantages of a metal folding ladder include the difficulty of making it at home. To create it you need to have special skills, experience with welding and equipment.
Strength and lightness are the main characteristics of a folding staircase to the attic. The best option remains a combined staircase. This design consists of wooden steps and metal supports. This type of system is budget-friendly and reliable. Some models use rubber pads on the steps to reduce slipping.
How to determine the sizes?
To make the use of the stairs comfortable, it is necessary to determine the main dimensions of the structure and make calculations. It is important to take into account the parameters of the room in which the entrance to the attic will be located: the height of the ceilings, the area where the stairs will be laid out, the slope of the stairs. Usually a model consisting of 3 or 4 sections is installed for ceilings with a height of 3 meters.
Basic dimensions to be determined.
- Ceiling height and staircase length. The higher the ceiling height, the more reliable and durable the structure should be. When measuring the height of the ceilings, the length, type of folding system and the number of sections are determined. At a height of 3.5 meters or more, it is recommended to install a stationary version of the staircase.
- Opening and width of the stairs. The opening size can be from 0.5-0.6 by 0.7-0.8 meters. The optimal size is 0.8 by 1.20 m. The width of the step depends on the width of the hatch. It will be comfortable to climb stairs 60-70 cm wide.
- Slope. A safe and comfortable slope angle is 30-55 degrees.
- Pitch, number and width of steps. Average step and step characteristics that will be safe and easy to use: 15-17 steps 20 cm wide and 2 cm thick, step 18-23 cm.
After determining all of the above parameters, you can begin to select a folding staircase. The safety and reliability of the product is characterized not only by the material and correctly calculated parameters, but also by the competent installation of the system.
Installation
For safety reasons, please note the following restrictions:
- do not use the product for plasterboard floors;
- do not disassemble the constituent elements of the structure during installation;
- do not loosen the fastenings connecting the ladder and the hatch;
- Do not use the folding ladder until the work is completed.
Home installation of a finished folding staircase system begins in the attic, for this purpose the kit is lifted into the attic. First, the structure is placed at closed hatch, then the ladder is attached to the open hatch cover in the unfolded state. The system must rest against the floor and be stationary at the time of installation. When the “rough” installation has been carried out, it is necessary to check how the system works: open the hatch cover from the room several times, disassemble and reassemble the ladder. If no problems are found with the operation of the installation, then installation continues.
Before starting work, you must carefully read the attached instructions and check the design for serviceability.
First, you need to place a box on the base of the opening and attach it with screws; the gap between the box and the opening is filled with foam. Then the upper section is installed. Unfold the ladder and make sure it is stable and forms a straight line. You can correct it by trimming the legs of the last section. Both sides of the structure must fit tightly to the surfaces.
IN ready set There is a fence for the hatch on the attic side. It consists of racks and crossbars. To create a more reliable and rigid structure, the racks are secured with metal struts. They connect the vertical bars to the floor.
Check the hatch for leaks. The lid should fit tightly into the opening. If the seal is poor, heat will escape from the room. Then it is carried out redecorating bottom side hatch covers. When installation is completed, a control check can be carried out.
Equipment modern designs and the functions of a folding ladder can be varied. This includes handrails, protective covers, electronic system and remote control. The simplest option is to design a folding wooden system. Wood is the most available material, which is easy to operate.
Before completing the work, a drawing of the designed staircase is created. The height from the floor to the place where the hatch is located is measured and calculations are made. The easiest way is to create a sectional staircase that opens up like a book.
The staircase to the attic is a simple design that you can easily create yourself. It can be solid - made of wood or metal, or it can have a light and convenient folding shape. What options are suitable for your attic and how to make and install an attic ladder with a hatch with your own hands, read our material.
Stepladders for the attic? It's in the past!
The exit to the attic is almost always located in one of living rooms top floor Houses. Therefore, you have to either sacrifice space and spoil the interior, or use a portable stepladder. The last option is not only troublesome, but also quite risky, since unstable steps can break off, and in order to hold the stepladder itself, you often need to invite family members to help.
We suggest you make a choice in favor of a more reliable option - designing and implementing a new modern attic staircase. Types and recommendations for creating a good-quality staircase to the attic with your own hands, which we give below, will help you make your choice.
Attic stairs: overview of options
The main elements of the staircase are the bowstring and the stringer (side parts); tread (steps) and riser (for stationary stairs).
I. Capital steps
If there is enough space in your house, then we recommend building a stationary staircase to access the attic or attic. This option is reliable, practical and durable. Capital steps can be performed on the basis metal frame or quality wood.
Monolithic stairs can be marching, with one or more bends, or spiral (spiral). Marching options have steps in the form of rectangular plates (boards), which evenly move upward at the same distance. A spiral staircase is folded around a central base, has steps narrowed towards the inner edge and is arranged in a spiral. The latter option is more compact and can be built even in small spaces, without sacrificing space.
The “advantages” of the capital option include durability, reliability and ease of use.
A capital staircase, in most cases, does not provide a hatch for access to the attic, therefore it is more suitable for houses with warm roof. For cold roof The exit to the attic must be closed with a sealed hatch. Standard sizes hatch - 120x70 cm. It makes no sense to make a smaller passage, as this will complicate both getting into the attic and installing steps.
The material for the hatch is wood, metal or plastic. You can order a blank for the hatch at the metal-plastic structures factory with installation or self-installation. The hatch can be automatic or manual opening. With the latter option, a special pole is used to open the latch (lock) and lower the door with a ladder.
II. Portable ladders
Portable steps are the closest analogue of the “good old” stepladders. Such a ladder will only be reliable if you make a folding version with a platform. However, it is difficult to call such a design convenient. You will have to make extra efforts to get into the attic hole, and the issue of storing such a ladder will cause a lot of trouble.
III. Folding attic ladders with hatch
A very convenient and easy-to-implement type of attic ladder is folding steps connected to a hatch. Thanks to its convenient design, this type of steps has become the most popular among professional craftsmen.
Today there are many types of folding stairs, among which you can choose the most suitable option (telescopic, scissor, folding, etc.).
The folding mechanism is suitable for any attic spaces with a hatch onto which the staircase structure can be attached.
- Scissor steps. This type is made of metal. The steps themselves can be wooden. The ladder is a compressing mechanism. When folded, the design takes on a very compact shape and size, so it’s perfect for small children. attic hatch;
- Telescopic steps. They are a system of retractable sections (similar to a folding telescope). This option is made of aluminum and also looks very compact on a small attic door;
- Folding (folding) stairs. This type is the most popular, as it is characterized by practicality, durability, cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. Below we will describe it in more detail.
In general, most stairs schematically look like this:
Before we begin designing an attic staircase, let's consider some standard design characteristics:
- The width of the march for attic steps should not exceed 60-65 cm;
- The height of the entire structure (taking into account the slope) is allowed up to 300 cm. Anything that exceeds this length becomes less stable and less strong. The higher the ladder, the less load it can withstand;
- Based on the recommended length of the stairs, the number of steps is selected - 13-15 pieces, with a distance between them of up to 20 cm;
- The most convenient and safe angle of inclination of the stairs is 60-700 degrees;
- Steps are a direct recipient of the load when climbing, so they must have a dense structure and a thickness of 18 mm, and be positioned strictly parallel to the floor.
Selection of material for flight of stairs should be determined by the frequency of operation of the structure. Wood wears out faster than metal. So, if you go up to the attic every day, it is better to design the steps from metal. In other cases, the tree is like light material, environmentally friendly and easy to install, is very popular.
So, let's get started and create a modern attic staircase with a hatch with your own hands according to the drawings that our specialists have prepared for you.
Stages of design and installation of a staircase of three sections with a hatch
Any work must begin with a project. Determine the height of your future staircase, taking into account the height of the ceiling and a slope of 60-70 degrees. It is also worth accurately measuring the attic passage and drawing corresponding diagram. The drawing must contain the following information: length of the staircase, angle of inclination, height of the ceiling of the room, dimensions of the passage and attic hatch, width of the flight, number and dimensions of sections, number, distance and dimensions of steps.
I. Preparation of the drawing
At this stage, the design is calculated. The length of the stairs is easy to calculate. Let's use a simple mathematical formula: D = B/, where α is the selected angle of inclination, B is the ceiling height. So, with a ceiling height of 3 m and an inclination angle of 60 degrees, the length of the staircase will be 3/0.867 = 3.46 m. Craftsmen advise adding a few centimeters to the resulting figure in order to then more accurately measure and cut the required length:
The dimensions of the hatch should be slightly smaller than the opening itself. For the calculation, 6-7 mm is left on each side of the door.
We calculate the length of the sections according to the following scheme: the first section is the length of the hatch minus 10%; second section – length of the first section minus 10%; third section - the sum of the lengths of the first two sections is subtracted from the total length of the stairs.
Now you need to transfer the calculations to paper and start preparing necessary materials and tools.
II. Selection of materials and tools
To implement the project, you need to prepare carpentry tools: tape measure, chisel, hacksaw, screwdriver, welding machine(or capital connections for a metal frame), square, hacksaw, clamps, wood glue, masking tape, electrodes, wood glue.
The main materials that we will need: 50x50 mm bars for finishing the hatch (about 4-5 pieces); two boards for the bowstring 100x25 mm long, equal to the selected length of the ladder; board for steps 100x20 or 100x25 mm; plywood or material with similar characteristics (for the hatch door one is enough standard sheet); plates and angles for opening and hinges; nuts, bolts, screws, washers, etc.
III. Making a hatch door
Step I. Prepare the bars for the hatch. At the ends of the beams, make cuts and grooves to tightly connect the structure into a regular triangle using assembly glue and fasteners. Protect the corners of the frame with temporary plywood plates to prevent the rectangle from moving.
Step II. Attach a sheet of plywood of the appropriate size to the base of the bars. Now you need to try on the hatch to the passage to the attic. It should be 6-7 mm smaller on all sides.
Step III. Provide a lock for the attic door. It could be automatic mechanism, or the most ordinary latch, which can be opened with a pole with a tip.
Step IV. We install hatch opening/closing mechanisms. If you don’t want to buy ready-made mechanisms, you can make them yourself. There should be two fastenings - left and right. For work, purchase a 4x20 mm steel plate and a corner. The photo shows a drawing of the left fastening part. The right one is performed in a mirror image. Dimensions are given arbitrarily. For more accurate calculations, consider your parameters. Before fastening, be sure to check the mechanisms in operation:
IV. Assembling the stairs
You can always order a ready-made sectional staircase from the craftsmen, which you can fasten according to the finished scheme yourself. But if you decide to complete the work yourself, you can assemble the stairs from prepared materials.
Step 1. Mark on the strings the places where the steps will be installed. To do this, mark each part with a pencil, according to the selected angle of inclination of the stairs and the previously made calculations. Now press the ends of the boards tightly together and fasten them together masking tape. This is necessary to drill through holes at the junctions of sections. Drill a hole for the hinge with a diameter of about 25 mm at the junction of the first and second sections. Next, you need to remove the tape and turn the boards over, fastening them again. Now we drill a similar hole at the junction of the second and third sections:
Step 2. Cut the bowstrings along the marked lines. Next, grooves are made for the steps with inside bowstrings using a chisel. The depth of the grooves must be at least 5 mm (this should also be taken into account at the first design stage). The lower section of the bowstrings should be beveled according to the angle of inclination of the stairs.
Step 3. We cut the steps according to the markings and attach them to the left bowstring. We put the steps on glue and secure them with self-tapping screws. We attach the right bowstring and also fasten it with self-tapping screws.
Step 4. Attach the loops for sliding mechanism stairs. Hinges, like hinge mechanisms, can be bought in a store, or made independently from metal tape. We need eight strips of metal (you can use leftovers from the door mechanisms). Weld small pieces of the same strip to the four strips. We drill two holes in each part (for fastening and hinge). We connect the hinge with the hinges. Now we join the cut sections and attach the hinges so that each hinge fits into the groove (25 mm holes drilled before cutting the sections). We fasten the loops on the bowstrings:
V. Final assembly
Now the top of the finished ladder needs to be secured to the hatch, having first checked the operation of the hinge mechanisms. The staircase should also be checked after installation. After making sure that all parts are in good working order and functional, open the steps with varnish:
One more thing step by step guide for installation:
You can insulate and seal the hatch using foam rubber or construction wool. The edges of the hatch should be covered with rubber sealant tape.
That's it, your staircase with hatch is ready! This is exactly the option that is completely feasible “with one helmet.” We wish you fast and easy work.