Wooden staircase to the attic with wardrobes. Do-it-yourself attic staircase: standard dimensions and manufacturing process

• 1 Design requirements
• 2 Varieties
• 3 Dimensions
• 4 Selecting a location
• 5 Measurements
• 6 Material selection
• 7 Form
• 8 Getting started
• 9 Two-section ladder
• 9.1 Manufacturing technology
• 10 Making a folding ladder on bowstrings
• 11 Videos
• 12 Photos
• 13 Schemes

If in the near future you intend to convert the attic into a functional room, then before starting work you should think about where to install the staircase and how to make it. A ceiling door or hatch will also be installed here. This design can be ordered or purchased, but let's find out how to make a staircase to the attic with your own hands. So, you will save a fair amount of your family budget and acquire new skills that may well be useful to you in the future.

Previously, attic stairs were made from the outside, but hardly anyone would be pleased with the prospect of climbing into this room across the street in frost or rain. Many people have a ceiling door in their attic, most often in the hallway, and if they need to climb into the attic, they use a ladder. But this is also inconvenient if you have to create, for example, a study or a recreation room in the attic. For a civilized person more good choice There will be installation of a stationary or folding staircase. If you don't have room for the first option, then the second one will suit you very well.

Design requirements

Design requirements

Whatever staircase option you choose, it must meet safety requirements. The structure must provide safe passage into the attic and be strong enough. Spiral staircases take up relatively little space and are highly attractive, however, it will be very difficult for older people to climb such a structure.

If the area of ​​the corridor or hallway where the staircase will be installed allows, then it is better to make an opening wide enough so that a good stationary staircase can be installed.

The larger the opening under the stairs to the attic, the greater the heat loss will be, unless, of course, we are talking about a heated attic space.

Stationary ladder

Handrails and railings provide sufficient safety for a person climbing stairs. Therefore, if possible, make a design with these elements. Since in our case we are talking about self-production stairs, it is also important to treat it with special means that increase the fire resistance of the structure. This is especially true when making wooden stairs.

The load capacity indicator should not be small, since if it is necessary to lift a heavy load into the attic, one must also take into account its own weight. So, the optimal load capacity is 260 kg.

Varieties

Varieties

Attic stairs are divided into the following types:

• Monolithic. They can be marching or screw.
• Foldable. They can be lever, scissor, folding, sliding or telescopic.
• Portable stepladders or ladders.

Portable types of stairs are a temporary option for connecting floors. If you plan to use the attic on rare occasions, then an attached structure is the best option. But when arranging an attic space for a recreation area or for children to play, you need to make a more reliable staircase.

Ladder

Most often, there is no room in the building for arranging a massive structure. residential buildings. Therefore it is not surprising that retractable stairs and their folding counterparts are in greatest demand when arranging an attic. They take up little space, are safe and convenient, and easy to use.

Dimensions

Attic staircase has standard parameters, observing which you can produce a truly reliable and easy-to-use design:

• The width of the march should be 65-110 cm.
• The height of the stairs is up to 3.5 m. This is due to the fact that a fall from such a height or greater can lead to injury, and the rigidity of a high structure will be much less.
• The average number of steps is 15.
• The height of the risers is 19 cm.
• The thickness of the steps is 1.8-2.2 cm.
• The tilt angle ranges from 60 to 75º. This is due to the fact that an angle less than 60º will require a lot of space, and an angle greater than 75º is dangerous to use.
• If you have to make a folding ladder, then it must withstand a weight of up to 150 kg.
• The steps should not be slippery. They are installed parallel to the floor.

Selecting a location

Selecting a location

If you have to make the stairs yourself, then it is important to determine the installation location of the stairs - inside or outside; if you choose the first option, then in which room will the opening be made to climb to the attic? It is important that the stairs do not interfere with household members. Therefore, installing it in the kitchen or bedroom is not cost-effective.

If the attic space will not be used intensively, then a staircase to climb into it can be made in the living room. It is better that the staircase to the attic in this case is closed or autonomous. In such a situation, a folding ladder is a very good option.

Measurements

If you are making a folding ladder, then take into account its dimensions when folded and unfolded. Take a measurement from the floor of the room in which the stairs will be installed to the ceiling. Decide on the width of the stairs, the number of steps, and the angle of inclination. Record all data on paper, which will help you draw up the most accurate drawing. Errors in calculations can lead to undesirable consequences. For example, the stairs will be inconvenient to use and the risk of injury will increase.

The steps should be parallel to the floor. Doors should not open onto a flight of stairs.

Material selection

Material selection

When making a staircase from wood, all parts should be treated with antiseptics to prevent rotting finished product. After assembly, you can paint the structure with any suitable color varnish/paint. Typically, attic stairs are made of pine. This material is chosen by most homemade ones, since wood is easier to work with than metal.

If you decide to work with metal, then use galvanized materials. This type of metal does not rust. Such structures are very durable. So, you can save space; galvanized elements are thin and therefore do not take up much space.

To metal elements do not rub against each other, should be used plastic parts. Thus, due to the replaceable side plastic inserts, slipping will be prevented.

Form

The peculiarity of the attic staircase is its shape. It should be ergonomic, compact, comfortable and convenient. IN small room the overall design will look ridiculous. In a fairly large room there are no restrictions; if you want to install a compact staircase, but if you want to make a stationary massive one.

It depends on the available space and personal preferences whether the staircase will be one-, two-, or three-flight. If the distance from floor to ceiling is no more than 3 m, then it is quite possible to get by with the simplest one-flight design. But, if you want to be more original, then make a staircase consisting of two flights.

To make a single-flight structure look more interesting, make it arched. The steps can be made in the form of diverging rays.

Beginning of work

Beginning of work

If you have made the measurements and outlined the drawings, then it’s time to create an estimate for materials. So, so that you can make an attic wooden staircase yourself, you should stock up on:

• Screws.
• Screwdrivers.
• Roulette.
• Wood saw.
• Kit wrenches.
• Polyurethane foam.
• Goniometer.
• Hinges.

The lateral and vertical beams, serving as a support for the stairs. Magnitude permissible loads the structure depends entirely on the strength of the foundation.

Two-section ladder

Two-section ladder

One section of this design folds upward. When assembled, the two-section ladder is not hidden, but remains in plain sight. This is allowed if access to the attic is installed in a garage or other work space. When decorating the house in the appropriate style, a two-section staircase will also look good in the hallway. To make it you will need following materials:

• Roulette.
• Regular wooden staircase.
• Wood saw.
• 4 bars with a thickness of 2-3 cm, 2 of them must correspond to the width of the hatch, and 2 must be 20 cm longer than the hatch.
• 4 things. card loops corresponding to the width of the stringer.
• Fastening elements.

The stringer is the base of the staircase on which the steps are laid.

Manufacturing technology

Manufacturing technology

First you need to connect a short block with the help of loops to the upper end of the ladder, another similar block should be rigidly fixed to the bottom of the ladder. To make the structure reliable in the end, take 2 slats and nail them diagonally with reverse side flight of stairs. In this case, these actions should be carried out so that these reinforcing slats do not interfere with movement along the stairs.

After this, you need to measure 2/3 of the total length of the structure. Measurements are taken from below. The ladder should be cut in the designated location. These parts of the structure will subsequently be connected by card loops, which are attached to the back of the stairs. Thus, the structure can be easily folded.

The top bar is fixed under the hatch. Thanks to the hook and loop, your staircase will not open randomly. So, the hook needs to be attached to the wall, and the loop to the block.

Making a folding ladder on bowstrings

Making a folding ladder on bowstrings

The manufacturing process of a folding ladder consists of the following stages:

Divide the height from the floor to the attic hatch into 3 parts. In this case, the first part should be the same size as the hatch, the second should be slightly smaller, and the third should cover the remaining distance to the floor.

Now you need to measure the angle of the hatch using a small tool.

Transfer the angle to the blanks under the stairs, which will allow you to mark the steps.

Drill holes between the sections for subsequent installation of the hinge.

Sand all elements.

At the places where the hinges are installed, the boards are sawn.

Cut and sand the steps.

Make notches in the strings to install steps.

Insert the steps into the strings, placing them on glue, and then tightening them with self-tapping screws.

Connect the sections with loops. To perform this stage of work correctly, place the sections on a flat plane.

Check the functionality of the sections.

Assemble the structure and temporarily install it in the hatch. If it turns out that the ladder needs to be adjusted slightly to fit the hatch, then do it.

Now sand the staircase and paint it with several layers of varnish. In this case, the next one can be applied only after the previous layer has completely dried.

After the varnish has dried, install the ladder into the hatch.

To speed up the process of making an attic ladder, carry out all work with a partner. This will also help avoid injury when working at height.

The main points for making a wooden attic staircase were described in this article. If you have questions on the topic, be sure to ask our expert. Would you like to supplement the article or provide useful information? additional recommendations? Leave your comments.

In the video provided, you can learn about other intricacies of making attic stairs:

The photo shows several options for attic stairs:

Stairs to the attic from the street

Staircase above the entrance

Original staircase

Folding ladder

Stationary ladder

Types of folding stairs

Calculation of a spiral staircase

Staircase drawing

Wooden staircase diagram

Staircase diagram

Scheme for determining the height and slope of the stairs

Any room in the house can and should be equipped in an optimal way for the people living there. This also applies to the attic. A do-it-yourself attic staircase is an excellent example. correct use space and forces for organizing space indoors.

The ascent to the attic includes the ladder itself, a special hatch for penetration and a system of levers for fixing the installed span. A do-it-yourself attic staircase allows you to save money and provide excellent quality construction.

Classic look of a retractable staircase to the attic

There are plenty of options on how to make a staircase to the attic. So the choice is up to you optimal solution and its implementation.

Staircase manufacturing, installation and testing are the main stages of work. But without design and calculation of the future structure, construction will be complicated, and the quality may not meet expectations.

The beginning of work is the creation of a hatch leading to the top. A DIY attic ladder is a great approach if you have sufficient knowledge and skills. The correct choice of hatch location, its precise creation and staircase equipment serve as the basis for the entire project.

You have 2 options: use a ready-made hatch or make it yourself. The size of the hole should be comfortable for climbing, so as not to touch the ceiling and slings with your head. The place should not be crossed by beams and load-bearing elements. The hatch must be additionally insulated, because the integrity of the structure is compromised and this can lead to heat loss.

If you decide to make an attic staircase with your own hands, then you should understand that this is not just a classic path to the upper floor. The attic staircase has its own characteristics and requires a special approach.

Manufacturing a hatch for an attic staircase includes the following work:

1. Development of drawings
2. Accounting and detailed analysis of the thickness of all structural elements and hatch dimensions.
3. Selection necessary materials and tools.
4. Forming an opening where there will be a folding ladder or other option for climbing into the attic.
5. Assembling the hatch frame and securely fixing all elements.
6. Making a cover from leftover floor coverings.
7. Decoration and complex of insulation works.

As a result, you get an equipped hatch that can be easily closed for a while.

The hatch in the closed position practically does not stand out against the background of the ceiling

DIY folding ladder to the attic

In most cases, the design of the stairs to the attic appears this way. An attic ladder that can be folded freely looks convenient and practical, saving space without sacrificing functionality.

Making this type of staircase yourself is quite complex and time-consuming, but proper preparation And step by step execution quite feasible. To make a folding attic ladder, you will need the following tools:

• Hacksaw
• Polyurethane foam
• Screwdriver (preferably electric)
• Screwdriver
• Anchor bolts
• Self-tapping screws of different diameters
• Loops for fastening
• Roulette.

Before starting the production of an attic ladder, you should make sure that you have an extension ladder, which will serve as the basis for work. A folding ladder can be made in just 1 day, if you have all the materials and tools.

This design option is objectively the most popular, for which there are reasons:

1. A folding ladder can significantly save space.
2. The element folds easily and is extremely simple to use.
3. Harmonious fit into any interior.
4. Fast production speed.
5. High strength and long service life.

If you manage to make a folding ladder exactly with the planned dimensions, you will get a spectacular and effective element in home improvement.

Standard sizes

Although the attic ladder is made by hand, there are certain established dimensions that are recommended to be followed. They are selected and laid at the design stage, and during the manufacturing process they serve Starting point for all actions. Below is a list of sizes that can be used:

1. With a staircase height of 290 cm: 60x90, 60x120 or 70x120 cm.
2. Height 280 cm: 60x120 and 70x120 cm.
3. Height up to 280 cm: 60x120, 70x120 and 70x130 cm.

This is the accepted order of numbers. In any case, you choose the final parameters yourself, solely based on personal preferences and understanding of the ease of use of the design.

Drawing

Here is a set of diverse ladders with detailed drawings for work.

The manufacturing process step by step with photo illustrations and detailed descriptions

When making stairs for the attic, it is important to follow the stages of the work in order to get the optimal result. For this we offer you universal instructions(Attention: some changes and adjustments are allowed for a specific case).

1. Drawing development. High precision and correctness of design are not required here. The main thing is that your document is understandable to you personally and contains precisely calculated and verified parameters.
2. Preparatory work. This important and extensive stage includes the selection complete set tools and materials that will be required to complete the work. Already at this stage, a drawing will help you a lot, because you will clearly imagine what the staircase will look like, which means you can easily draw up full list everything you need.
3. Manufacturing of the support frame. Based on the standard and selected size of the hatch, you form the frames, carefully adjusting all the corners and cleaning individual areas.

Installed frame and mounted hatch in open position

1. The frame is installed in working position and secured with bolts and inserts. The opening fits exactly.
2. After mounting the frame, the hatch cover is inserted into the body.
3. Grooves for stairs are made on the guides.
4. The ends of the support beams should be cut at an angle that will optimally match the floor when the stairs are opened.
5. The sawn and polished steps are carefully installed in the groove and secured with self-tapping screws.

Installation of steps on bases

1. All elements (staircase segments) are assembled into a single structure. Metal hinges are used to secure all parts.

Metal loops for connecting structural elements

1. The ladder assembled on the floor is installed in its working position and attached to the hatch frame.
2. Be sure to carefully check how the design you created works. To do this, perform the full set of opening/closing movements several times.

Staircase of several sections in assembled condition

See how you can make a staircase to the attic with a visual example

Attic ladder mechanism with hatch - hinged without spring

The design of the hatch opening mechanism is one of key elements when designing stairs. You can purchase a ready-to-install mechanism at any department store. If you do not want to purchase such parts, you can make it yourself.

For the manufacture of simple option opening system, you will need the following set of parts and tools: a corner, a metal sheet (a small piece), 2 strips with different lengths of the blade, bolts for fastening, drills, a jigsaw, cleats and clamps.

The manufacture of the mechanism for the stairs is as follows:

1. Drawing up a drawing with a detailed description of the elements. Be sure to calculate the angle of contact and the angle of inclination of the lid when opening.
2. Make a design of the mechanism from cardboard in order to accurately calculate the size of the hinge.
3. Take metal strips and mark holes on them. The hinges will be installed here. The size of the hole is determined by the size of the M10 bolt.
4. The strips are assembled together into a single structure and tightened, but not too much.
5. The exact angle is determined using a small marker.
6. Extend the mechanism being created to the set angle.
7. On the metal sheet, mark the part that will overlap when the hatch is open.
8. Using a jigsaw, cut this section.
9. The stripes must have a presentable appearance, for which they are carefully cleaned and curved. The processing of all elements is very important, because it is this that ensures that all elements match exactly and fit optimally. No friction between parts should be allowed.
10. To make the second part of the mechanism, we recommend using clamps. To ensure accurate dimensions, it is enough to securely fasten the finished element and the source.
11. You can also use clamps to achieve precise hole placement.
12. Once the bolt holes are created, the bolt is placed into the finished hole.
13. The blanks are twisted with two bolts and aligned along their length.

Your task is to make 2 identical mechanisms. Completely finished opening mechanisms are installed on the hatch. Be sure to re-fit the hatch with the mechanisms to the opening - make sure there are no gaps or areas where the elements come into contact.

Adjusting the structure in this area is possible and is not difficult, so pay attention to this.

The hinge is easy to use and allows you to use the ladder comfortably.

Stair options

Attic stairs can have several types. The ability to choose allows you to optimally equip any room depending on your personal wishes and needs.

— folding ladder on hinges

A fairly common format for making stairs. The project consists of 3 sections that are connected into a single structure. This format is suitable for equipping stairs in any room. Hinges for an opening hatch can be purchased ready-made and installed in the shortest possible time.

Folding ladder on hinges

- simple wooden staircase

This option is more attractive and is a definite upgrade of the previous design. To make it, it is enough to cut a standard ladder into 3 sections. The smallest one should be the size of the hatch, the second one should be larger, and the third one should completely cover the remaining distance to the floor. Make grooves on and install steps into them. Be sure to finish all corners and surfaces accurately.

- two-piece folding ladder

An attic staircase option that is suitable for low room heights or a type of simplified design.

Folding ladder

- sliding attic ladder - retractable flights to the attic

A ladder with large retractable sections that can be pulled out and simultaneously cover the distance to the hatch. Requires precise fitting of elements and sufficient space.

Sliding staircase

- do-it-yourself staircase to the attic from the street

An attic staircase can have an unlimited number of design options - below you can admire the completed projects.

Stairs from the street

Photo gallery of attic stairs

Today you can find it online a large number of designs of stairs for the attic. Anyone can make them with their own hands, so you shouldn’t be afraid - you just need to prepare well and do it.

Do-it-yourself staircase to the attic is great way make your home more comfortable and make trips to the attic a real pleasure. The design has a small set of technical difficulties - therefore the product is often made by hand. Basic rules for those who decide to make an attic ladder themselves:

• Carefully draw up a drawing based on the obtained dimensions and personal wishes.
• Choose the best quality tools and materials.
• Inspect everything carefully connecting elements and connecting parts.
• Check the staircase elements more often to prevent defects and eliminate them in a timely manner.

The staircase for climbing to the attic is easy to decorate and fits perfectly into the style of any room. Comfortable handles and reliable fixation forms perfect option climbing to the top, which is an excellent alternative standard fixed ladder.

In most private houses, attics and attics are used rooms. And to get to ground floor Of course, you need a ladder.

Types of attic stairs - design and types of construction

Attic stairs can be located both outside and inside the building. The advantage of the second option is ease of use. You don’t have to go outside to get into the attic, which is very important in the winter season. In addition, in the absence of access to the street, the attic space does not come into contact with cold air, which significantly reduces heat loss.

Based on the type of construction, the following types of attic stairs are distinguished:

1. Monolithic:
   • screw;
   • marching.
2. Folding attic stairs:
   • scissor;
   • folding or lever;
   • telescopic or sliding stairs;
   • folding
3. Portable:
   • stepladders;
   • attached.

Portable stairs are usually used as a temporary option for connecting floors. Used during the construction of a house or for access to attic spaces, which are used extremely rarely. They are not safe.

The most convenient, of course, are traditional monolithic stairs, with a wide march and railings. But it is not always possible to place a massive structure leading to the attic - there may simply not be enough space.

In this case the best option there will be retractable attic stairs. They are quite convenient and safe, easy to use and take up very little space. A wide variety of designs will allow you to choose the option that suits you.

Folding transformable ladder

Attic folding stairs are made of wood and metal (aluminum). The combination of these materials gives top scores. Made from wood flight of stairs, to reduce the weight of the structure, and metal - springs, mechanisms and fasteners that ensure the rigidity of the product. Of course, there are also purely metal models.

For wooden models Hardwoods should be used. The thickness of the timber should be at least 2 cm. Wood should not be used when the folding staircase is used too intensively, because this leads to rapid wear. In this case the best option- metal attic ladder.

Plastic fittings are also used to prevent friction of components during transformation and seal the opening when the product is folded. The hatch cover is filled with polystyrene foam and provides good thermal insulation.

Folding attic ladders can be opened either manually or automatically using an electric drive. Often, when manual drive a weight is attached to the mechanism, which significantly facilitates the assembly process, as if pulling the ladder into a niche and, conversely, smoothly lowers it, compensating for the weight of the product.

The main requirements for such products are compact size and strength. The aesthetics of the model is also important - a good transforming staircase should blend with the ceiling.

Standard sizes of attic stairs:

• width of the flight of stairs. The optimal width is about 65 cm;
• height of the stairs. It is not recommended to use a product with a height of more than three and a half meters, because then the rigidity of the structure suffers, and a fall from such a height can lead to serious injuries. The process of lowering or raising it will also be inconvenient. In this case, you will still have to opt for a monolithic staircase;
• number of steps. Usually equal to 14 or 15;
• distance between steps. It is believed that optimal width the step is 19.3 cm. With a larger or smaller value, the stairs will be inconvenient to use;
• the thickness of the steps ranges from 18 to 22 mm;
• angle of inclination of the stairs. The standard value is considered to be from 60 to 75 degrees. If the slope is greater, it will be dangerous to use the ladder; if it is less inclined, the product will take up too much space;
• the folding attic ladder must withstand a weight of at least 150 kg;
• The steps should be parallel to the floor and not slip, or anti-slip pads should be glued to the steps.

When purchasing folding attic ladders, you must take into account that the parameters of the product must match the dimensions of the hatch cover, otherwise the folding parts will touch the opening. The optimal hatch is considered to have a built-in sliding staircase 70 cm wide and 120 cm long. With smaller opening sizes, it is inconvenient to climb. If the hatch dimensions are too large, then large heat losses are possible. Since the attic is unheated room, it is necessary to provide good heat and vapor insulation.

When choosing the angle of inclination of the stairs to the attic, it is important to take into account that the smaller the angle, the larger the dimensions of the attic hatch need to be made and the more space the stairs take up when unfolded.

Sliding attic ladder - retractable flights to the attic

Scissor ladder
As a rule, they are made entirely of metal. They also go by the name “accordion staircase”, which has stuck due to the fact that the structure folds like an accordion. And the transformation mechanism resembles an expanding tram current collector and is shaped like a parallelogram or an oval.

The retractable staircase to the attic has one drawback inherent in cheap models. Due to the fact that the structure is entirely made of metal, if the assembly is poor or over time, the flight of stairs begins to creak. This can be avoided by periodically lubricating the extension ladder.

Telescopic ladders

The telescopic ladder consists of many retractable sections that fold into one another. It is made of aluminum, which helps to lighten the structure and impart rigidity. In the domestic market, sliding attic stairs are quite rare and are not very popular.

Folding staircase to the attic - sectional and hinged

Folding stairs can consist of two, three or four sections depending on the design. The first elbow has a length equal to the dimensions of the hatch cover and is rigidly fixed to it. The other two segments open up to form a smooth flight of stairs. Sectional stairs are so mobile thanks to special hinges and hinges.

Folding ladder

If you really like order, suffer from a panicky lack of space, and you have a second floor or attic, a folding staircase can become excellent option to satisfy all needs at once. The idea is this: most For some time, the structure is folded and fixed to the wall, and only in the evening, when you need to go up to the bedroom, do you pull it out.

The steps are secured to the string using card loops. When folded, the structure is fixed on the wall. The reclining design is not in great demand due to its complexity, but later in the article we will still tell you how to make it yourself.

DIY attic folding stairs

Option No. 1 - simple design of 2 sections

Do-it-yourself attic stairs are made within 2-3 hours. To make an attic staircase we will need:

• hacksaw for woodworking;
• tape measure;
• a staircase whose height will be approximately 30 cm greater than the distance to the ceiling;
• four card loops the width of a stringer;
• two bars, the length of which is equal to the width of the hatch, and two more bars, approximately 20 cm longer than the first ones. The thickness of the bars is 2-3 cm;
• screws, anchors, hook and eye.

We attach one of the short bars to the upper end of the stairs using hinges, the other is rigidly fixed to the lower part. Two slats are attached to the flight of stairs diagonally so that they do not interfere with movement. They will give rigidity to the entire structure.

Next, measure 2/3 of the length of the stairs and make a neat cut. Then we connect both parts using loops. It is important to attach the hinges right side so that the ladder folds in the correct direction, as shown in the photo.

The top bar is fixed to the wall immediately below the hatch. To prevent the folding ladder to the attic from opening, it is secured to the wall with a hook. The loop is screwed into the stringer next to the cut point, and the hook is attached to the wall.

The disadvantage of this model is that it remains in plain sight. This can be avoided by using the product more complex design, in which the sections are attached to the hatch cover. Let's see if it is possible to make such an attic ladder with your own hands.

Option No. 2 - hatch to the attic with a ladder

We will tell you how to make a staircase to the attic, consisting of 3 sections, which is identical in design to those sold in stores. This is the kind of folding attic ladder we should be able to achieve.

How to make a hatch to the attic with your own hands - the basis of a folding ladder

You can make a hatch to the attic using available materials. First, let's decide on the location and size of the opening, and then we'll make the hatch. Let's say the size of the staircase opening is 125 by 70 cm. Then, to cut out the hatch, you should add 7-8 mm to these dimensions on each side. These gaps will allow the lid to close easily, but will not affect the thermal insulation.

Materials you will need:

• four bars 50x50 mm - two short and two long;
• 10mm plywood sheet (in our case, two panels are used - unfortunately, we didn’t have a whole sheet at hand).

At the ends of the bars we make cuts of half the thickness, coat them with glue and secure them with self-tapping screws, having first checked the diagonals. To prevent the diagonal from disappearing, temporary gussets made of 4 mm plywood should be used. Afterwards, we remove them and screw on a sheet of 10 mm plywood (the photo shows how the sheet is secured around the perimeter with PSh self-tapping screws). Next we try it on in the opening.

To ensure that the hatch closes well and there are no locks on the outside, we cut into the lid door latch. Our packaging said “reinforced.” To open the latch, we will use an old handle (any cylinder-shaped device can be used), which is inserted into a special hole. The latch holds the hatch well, very convenient.

The mechanism of the attic ladder with a hatch is hinged without a spring

Now it's time for the most difficult part - the opening mechanisms. All the components, of course, can be bought in the store, but we will go the hard way and do everything ourselves.

First, let's draw a drawing of the attic staircase on cardboard with the approximate angle at which the hatch should open. Let's cut out the cardboard parts and try them on the structure. This way you can quite accurately select the length of the hinges.

I think everyone has iron corners, scraps of strips and pieces in their garage sheet metal, in general, everything that can be used to make a mechanism for a ladder. For one mechanism we need:

• one corner;
• piece of sheet metal;
• two strips of different lengths.

Let's mark the holes for the hinges, the distances of which we previously estimated experimentally, and drill them for an M10 bolt. We put it together without tightening the bolts too much. Using a small tool, we measure the desired opening angle of the hatch and expand the future mechanism to the selected angle. We mark on the metal the area that, when opened, overlaps the corner and cut it out using a jigsaw.

We bring the metal strips into proper shape by cutting off the excess length and rounding the ends. This way they won’t touch the corner and interfere with each other. We reassemble the entire mechanism. After we removed part of the metal, the corner began to rest and lock in the desired position.

So, one mechanism is ready, now we begin to manufacture the second. It is very important that it turns out exactly the same, but in a mirrored design. To do this, we fasten each pair of parts with clamps and drill the necessary holes.

After one hole is cut, insert a bolt into it and drill the second.

Then, screwing both parts together with bolts, we align them in length.

This is how we make all the parts.

The output should be two completely identical mechanisms.

Now let's install the mechanisms on the hatch and try it on in the stairwell. It turned out that even when designing the unit, we made a mistake - we did not take into account the height of the fastening on the floor beam. That is, the part simply crawled out of the ceiling. Because of this, we had to install temporary bars.

We adjust the hatch so that it opens well and does not touch the walls of the opening.

Now we will make another simple mechanism to support the entire structure. We will need two strips of metal 20 mm wide and a corner. To do this, we weld a piece of metal to the end of one of the strips, against which the second strip will rest. We make a support platform from the corner.

The result should be a hinge that, when the hatch is opened, remains slightly bent and at the same time holds the load. Subsequently, this unit will need to be installed in such a way that it is completely expanded when the mechanisms made earlier are open to the maximum. Then the load created by the articulated ladder will be equally distributed between them.

Do-it-yourself wooden staircase on bowstrings

The staircase to the attic is built with your own hands from wooden planks. We will cut the string and steps from an inch board 100 mm wide. The length of the first section is made according to the size of the hatch, the second is the same or slightly smaller than the first, but taking into account the fact that it should not touch the ceiling during the transformation process. The third section is equal to the distance remaining to the floor.

Using a small tool, we measure the angle of inclination of the hatch in the open position and transfer it to the board, thereby marking the steps. Next, mark the lengths of the sections.

Pressing the boards tightly together and securing them with masking tape, we transfer all the markings to the second board (the lines should be in mirror image). Using a 25mm pen, we drill a hole where the hinge hinge will subsequently be located.

Now attention, we made the mistake of drilling both holes on one side because the second hole should be on outside boards, as noted in the photo.

For a more aesthetic appearance, we sand all the edges with a router.

On the strings of the stairs we make small recesses (5 mm) for the steps. Using glue and PSh self-tapping screws, we assemble all the parts together. It should look something like the photo.

Long gone are the days when home owners had to climb up a cumbersome ladder into the attic. ladder. Modern options for the attic are good because they take up minimal space both when folded and unfolded, and the presence of such a design behind a beautifully finished attic hatch It’s difficult for even an attentive person to guess.

And such a wonderful alternative is definitely pleasing to the eye. screw structures and stepladders, like a folding attic ladder - you can make it with your own hands with the right fastenings, with a strong spring mechanism and no worse than modern expensive market products. And even better!

Advantages and disadvantages of folding stairs

A folding attic ladder should be easy to hide and fold under the ceiling, and therefore it is customary to make it shorter, with a small number of sections. After all, every extra step in this regard means additional weight and volume.

Such stairs are good primarily because they allow you to significantly save space. At the same time, they do not spoil the ceiling of the living space at all. After all, the entrance to the attic is often located in one of the habitable rooms of the house. At the same time, such stairs are quite functional, durable and compact. And using them is as easy as shelling pears: just pick up a special rod with a hook at the end and hook onto the ring.

Next, with your left hand, you easily reach the bottom step of the outermost section, reach the floor and straighten all the other components of the ladder. In the same way, by doing everything in reverse order, you can easily fold the ladder back and put it into the ceiling. Moreover, many modern attic ladders also fold and unfold using an electric drive, which is generally incredibly convenient:

Another advantage is safety. Going up and down such a ladder is much safer than using an extension ladder: it will not break under your feet and your legs will not unexpectedly “leave away.”

And finally, lightness. The lightest folding attic ladders are made from of stainless steel and aluminum, thanks to which attic floor there are no serious loads. As you understand, due to the design features, such a staircase can only be made of metal.

Why is it better to make the stairs yourself?

Ready-made industrial stairs, which the market is actively offering today, are quite convenient, as far as can be judged from the available reviews on them. But we do not recommend placing them in attics that you often have to climb into (for example, our workshop or mini-library is located there).

Why? Because such stairs often turn out to be quite flimsy in practice - this is not hand-made production, but mass production, and no manufacturer needs to make them too strong. For any product, the maximum limit load is always calculated, which often does not take into account many factors and force majeure. And this is the same case when you, in a calm state and with almost no additional weight in your hands, carefully descend or ascend. If you slip, fall, or a fairly overweight relative decides to lift a heavy box into the attic, expect trouble.

And such stairs are often quite steep, and it is inconvenient to go down them with something in your hands - you need to stick to one. And go down only backwards. Therefore, it is quite natural that many home craftsmen who built their own house or bathhouse do not see any point in buying fragile and expensive folding stairs to the attic. Why, if you can make them yourself, and of excellent quality and much greater reliability?

Moreover, in this case, you have much more choice both in terms of the material for making the stairs and the fasteners themselves. The main thing is to correctly calculate the dimensions of the future structure, so that later it can be easily and compactly folded over the hatch, without anything touching the opening or creating a problem.

Another one common reason The reason that many people undertake to build such stairs on their own is that most industrial options usually have very thin and fragile steps - they literally creak underfoot.

So, in order to make such a ladder for the roof with your own hands, you will need wooden scraps. First decide on the dimensions of the future attic opening, and the second step is to make the hatch cover and frame. You will then attach the ladder to it. It is advisable to leave gaps of 7-8 millimeters on each side. The technical parameters are as follows:

So, now let’s figure out what types of attic folding stairs there are.

Design #1 – sliding stairs

Sliding ladders usually consist of two sections, one of which is attached directly to the hatch cover, and the second is extended vertically using special guides. When you fold such a ladder, one section seems to creep onto the other, which is quite convenient. The only negative is the bulkiness of the entire structure, which requires a wide opening in the attic floor.

Design #2 – folding with a spring mechanism

The most popular today - folding stairs, otherwise called sectional. These consist of three or four sections that can easily be straightened into a flight of stairs. They are connected to each other by a special spring mechanism.

Folding structures are considered the most complex in their design, since they have many fasteners and must be correctly attached to the hatch opening. Such stairs are made of both wood and metal.

Design #3 – telescopic ladders

The next type is a telescopic design. It performs remarkably well in cases where the attic is visited quite often. For example, when it was specially insulated to make it residential, although it had not yet reached a full-fledged attic. That is, we are talking about a technical attic, like a dressing room or a workshop, but in this case, a residential attic is better to install a spiral staircase made of wood or metal and always with railings.

In a telescopic design, the blocks are pulled out one by one, taking up as much space as possible. less space. And such stairs are especially good because they can be extended to almost any length, which is especially valuable for high ceilings. But such devices are not suitable for children and the older generation in the house, for whom it is quite difficult to reach the lower section and generally cope with the entire structure.

Design #4 – simplified folding stairs

These types of folding ladders do not hide behind an attic hatch, but they can easily be tucked into a corner or behind interior decoration. For example, this rarer species, which is usually made independently, also has the right to life:

And these options for folding stairs are quite popular abroad:

But both of these options have considerable disadvantages, some of which can bring discomfort to the interior of the living space, from where there is access to the attic, and after a month or two, such designs already bore the owners with their stupidity to the point of setting their teeth on edge. And therefore, we still suggest that you take a closer look at the more practical folding ladders, which can be easily folded and hidden behind a hatch cover.

How to determine the parameters of the future staircase?

So, we will give you some tips on choosing an attic ladder.

• Tip #1. When you choose the parameters for a future staircase, consider the mechanism of the hatch: when it is opened and closed, it can move slightly forward and backward.
• Tip #2. If the ceiling in the room is high enough, and exceeds 3.5 meters, it is better to install a marching or attached structure, or a spiral staircase, which will be safer in this case.
• Tip #3. When making a hatch, keep in mind that the larger the opening, the more heat will escape into the attic.
• Tip #4. Another point you should pay attention to is how the hatch will open. For example, in ready-made market versions, most often it opens slowly, thanks to special springs, and certainly does not fall on anyone’s head. Be sure to work on this point, especially since special parts are not difficult to purchase today.
• Tip #5. The steepness of a staircase is always determined only by its angle. The larger the protrusion of the step, the greater the number of these steps and the smaller their height. But this does not mean at all that it will be convenient for you to climb and descend such stairs. Therefore, we will call the most convenient step height 20 centimeters, which is most suitable for a standard human foot.

Here is a very useful video that will help you avoid many mistakes when installing such a staircase:

What fasteners and materials are needed?

As for the main material, a wooden staircase will be the most affordable, but it is important here Special attention pay attention to the strength of the fasteners. To make such a ladder, you will need two long and two short bars, as well as a piece of plywood 10 millimeters thick.

Let's take a closer look at this point. All designs that help open a staircase with a hatch at the bottom differ only in the presence of additional mechanisms and shock absorption. The shock absorption, in turn, makes it easier to close and open the stairs. And you can buy all the necessary hinge elements at any store. But simple metal strips drilled in several places are quite suitable for constructing such a staircase, and the most expensive thing for arranging a staircase is an aluminum sliding system.

Simple and practical fastening:

More complex system:

But what are the requirements for fastening the entire staircase? The first is the ability to withstand the weight of the entire structure, as well as the weight of the person who will climb and descend along it. And not only the static loads of a person standing on it with his certain weight, but also dynamic ones, which are much greater than static ones. For example, a person stumbled and suddenly stood on a lower step, or staggered and leaned on the stairs with all his weight, but abruptly and suddenly.

And finally, we note the ability to easily control the structure. As you understand, such a ladder weighs a fair amount and it is important that you then make sure it is easy to open. And when closing, you will have to lift all the weight at once, so provide special springs that will make the whole process easier for you over time - you will be grateful for this trick.

Instructions for making a folding ladder

So, let's figure out step by step how to make a folding ladder for your attic. You will need the following tools: a hacksaw, a ladder, hinges, two timbers, bolts, self-tapping screws, a screwdriver and a metal hook.

The process itself can be divided into several steps:

• Step 1. Secure the upper beam to the opening using hinges, and the lower beam using self-tapping screws. The fastener itself should be on the back side of the stairs.
• Step 2. Now we connect everything using the most ordinary bolts, with a diameter of 6 or 8 millimeters. A smaller diameter may not withstand the load, a larger one is simply not needed. Remember that self-tapping screws cannot be used here at all - they will not withstand the load and on a certain day they will simply tear out the entire fastening of the system.
• Step 3. Now we divide the stairs into three parts, measure 2/3 and make a cut, just between the steps.
• Step 4. We connect the sawn parts again, but with loops.
• Step 5. Bars longer length nail them on the back side so that they turn out diagonally for strength.
• Step 6. Now the ladder itself is delivered under the hatch and is pressed against the wall with the top bar. Secure this block with bolts.


Believe me, in practice everything will be much easier!

There is an attic in any country house. Very often this is an unused room, but in some cases some unnecessary things are stored here or even a room is being furnished. In any case, there must be access to it, and for this purpose stairs are made to the attic. They can be made from wood and metal - in this case, you can make them yourself. Or they can be beautiful forged - such designs are usually created to order.

Primary requirements

Before building an attic staircase, you need to consider several of its features. Firstly, it must be convenient and safe to use. Moreover, these two indicators depend on constructive principle the staircase itself and the attic. Important role takes into account the type of staircase, the width of its steps, and the height of the rise. The height of the stairs is calculated depending on what its design will be. If it is a folding type, then you need to carefully consider its dimensions when folded.

The steps must be of such a size that it is comfortable and safe for anyone to climb them. The correctness of the design also depends on the location of the steps: the distance between them should not be too small or large. Failure to comply with these requirements will violate safety regulations.

The width of the flight of stairs to the attic must be at least 0.8 m. It is important that the angle of inclination is maintained: this needs to be thought through at the stage of designing the structure.

Types of stairs: folding or stationary?

The choice between these two types of structures depends on how large the area of ​​the attic is. Of course, a stationary staircase is more reliable and safe, but it is also solid, that is, it requires a lot of space. This is why many people prefer folding attic ladders: they are convenient, take up little space, due to the fact that they can be folded. Most often, such structures consist of several sections that overlap each other, thereby saving space. Moreover, they can always be adjusted depending on the required size.

Or retractable?

These designs are becoming increasingly popular, due to their advantages:

• are cheap;
• easy to install;
• take up little space thanks to the accordion-shaped design;
• reliable;
• mask the structure with an attic hatch.

All these advantages make retractable stairs so popular. How to make it yourself?

Self-installation of a retractable ladder: main steps

The very first step should be a thorough analysis and check of the dimensions of the hatch opening. This is necessary to ensure that the parameters you choose coincide with the dimensions of the stairs. Then the location of the bars is thought out - first at the bottom, then at the top. Special spacers are located between the opening and the staircase - they will help better fix the structure. When it is laid, the spacers can be removed.

Or outside?

If space does not allow you to install retractable stairs, you can replace them external structure. It will provide a connection between the outside world and the interior of your home. The main thing is to remember the safety rules, since the operation of such a structure has its own characteristics. During installation external staircase It is important to choose the right material: it must be resistant to sunlight, have increased abrasive wear, reliable and wear-resistant.

Wooden staircase

Wooden stairs to the attic are the simplest option, which you can create with your own hands. There are several ways to do this. Let's look at the simplest and most practical ones.

Method 1

To make an attic staircase, you first need to take measurements: we need parameters for the height of the room, the expected angle of inclination, which most often reaches 30 degrees, while the height is about 2.5 m. In order for the staircase to be reliable and correct from a design point of view, you need to think through and draw up the drawings correctly. The simplest wooden stairs are created on the basis of bars for stringers, bars corresponding to the width of the stairs for fastening, overhead hinges and boards from which we will make the steps. Yes, and don’t forget about the folding hangers - the hatch cover will be fixed on them. The installation process itself is as follows:

1. Steps are installed and securely fastened between the stringers. This is done either using a tongue-and-groove type of fastening, or with self-tapping screws, or with glue. It is better to treat the steps with anti-slip pads - they will increase the safety of the structure.
2. The staircase is first secured under the ceiling opening using two bars that are equal to the width of the staircase. Their connection is made with loops.
3. We check how efficient the hinges are, and then finally tighten the fasteners.

This is the easiest way to create a staircase to the attic.

Method two

This is a more labor-intensive method of making a staircase, which can easily be installed even in a country house. It looks more aesthetically pleasing and has a more reliable design, which is important in conditions of heavy load. The structure itself will be movable on one side, and the other half will be attached to the wall. To create such a staircase to the attic we will need:

• two boards of length corresponding to the height of the ceiling and the angle of inclination;
• boards for creating steps at least 0.5 m wide and about 3 cm thick;
• bolts, self-tapping screws as fasteners;
• card loops that will attach the steps.

It is important to arm yourself with a drawing - it will allow you to complete all the work efficiently and accurately. After determining the angle of inclination, you need to saw off the bars at the top and bottom so that they rest firmly on the floor. The boards along their entire length are divided into equal sections - here the steps will be located at the distance you need. The steps are fastened with card loops, and after the structure is completed, you can make it elegant by varnishing or painting it.

Metal stairs

Attic stairs made of aluminum look very beautiful, especially if your country house is decorated in the style of “minimalism” or “high-tech”. What's good about metal? Firstly, it is more reliable. Secondly, such structures are treated with special compounds that protect the surface from mechanical stress or corrosion. Third, metal constructions able to withstand heavy loads.

The most popular among buyers are retractable metal stairs, which take up little space. They are relevant for premises that have small sizes, that is, where required rational use space.

How to do it yourself?

Despite all the difficulty technological process, you can make a metal staircase yourself. Moreover, it can be made of either metal or a combination of materials. To make the simplest metal staircase we will need to prepare:

• welding machine;
• mechanical saw;
• an emery wheel, which we will use to remove burrs on the metal;
• a circular saw and a clamp for joining parts if the staircase has wooden parts;
• pipes;
• steel sheets.

Please note that the quantity of materials is calculated based on the drawing. Welding machine we will make strong seams, so the staircase will be a monolithic and durable structure.

Such an aluminum or steel staircase will be constructed on the basis of a channel (size 8-10). The steps are made of sheet steel; if they are without additional finishing, you will need a grating on the steps that will protect against falling. The fences are made of angle steel, and the supports for the treads are made of reinforcement. First, support devices are installed and welded onto the beam, then brackets for fastening are welded.

Metal attic stairs can have wooden treads, but first you need to think about where the additional fasteners will be located. On metal steps The holes for the screws should be located at a distance of 15 cm from each other. A plywood backing is mounted to the metal treads - it is attached with mounting adhesive, which after hardening retains its shape.

Finished aluminum staircase

Very often, many people prefer to buy ready-made structures rather than install them themselves. But even in this case you will have to work hard, since they are delivered disassembled. How to assemble? The general scheme of work is approximately as follows:

1. First, a sketch of the future staircase is created.
2. From metal profile or pipes are cut into 4 identical sections.
3. The pipe is secured in a vice and thoroughly cleaned of rust.
4. Steps are cut out of a metal sheet - they must be the same length.
5. The steps are tried on a flat surface and adjusted to size.
6. The steps are attached to the supports by welding - this is a more reliable option than angles and bolts.
7. The bottom of the staircase is finished with rubber heels.

Forged structures: beautiful and modern

Very often in country houses rooms with an attic or attic are connected forged stairs. Moreover, they can be simple screw ones, or they can have ornate designs, which allows them to fit into any room stylistically. All spiral staircases can be divided into several types:

• in the first version, the staircase is supported by a central pillar and walls;
• in the second, the spiral staircase is removed from the walls and attached to a support pillar with steps;
• in the third case, the staircase with a turn does not have a central pillar, but rests on spirally curved strings;
• the fourth option is a reliable metal staircase, which rests on a monolith pillar based on a steel pipe.

The most convenient are stairs, the span width of which is up to 900 mm with a diameter of the entire staircase design up to 2200 mm.

What if you buy it?

If you don’t want to do the installation yourself, you can always buy the same forged stairs, which are quite difficult to install yourself, much less come up with and make. Big choice Attic stairs are offered by many brands, not only in Russia, but also in other countries of the world. Let's look at the most popular:

1. STANDART ISO PLUS (MINKA, Austria). This folding wooden ladder is made of quality MDF and is designed for a maximum load of 150 kg. There are special protective attachments on the legs, and the metal handrail ensures maximum safety. This is a compact staircase, the price of which is on average 8,200 rubles.
2. The Danish company VELTA offers economy-class structures that can be installed in the attic or attic. For 6,000 rubles you get a simple staircase that is compact: it consists of three sections that can be conveniently assembled and retracted into the ceiling.
3. FAKRO stairs are made from winter-harvested pine, therefore they are reliable and durable in use. This company offers a wide range of products that are compact and have a wide price range. An insulated hatch cover is the most important advantage that this staircase. The price of models starts from 8,000 rubles. It is also important that all connections of the structure are reliable and durable, the steps are supplemented with anti-slip grooves, making operation safe and comfortable.

conclusions

Now you know how to make a staircase to the attic with your own hands. Having the simplest materials at hand, you will create a laconic but convenient wooden or aluminum structure.