In a country house, the space under the roof is often a useful area and is actively used, so a do-it-yourself attic staircase with a hatch will be useful.
Types of stairs for access to the attic
Stairs have always been used to communicate between floors, and the last, uppermost level, the attic or attic, is no exception. The ascent to the under-roof premises can be included in a single marching complex, that is, the ceiling located below will serve as a platform for the next flight of stairs. But access to the attic can be organized in two ways - through the door from a small platform where you can climb the stairs from the living floor, or through the hatch, directly to the upper floor.
Now let's talk about the design of the flight of stairs. It can be stationary with steps, or descending directly into the hatch, being fixed on its cover. The second option is more compact, but more difficult to implement, the first requires a significant area, even for. Separately, it is worth mentioning a folding ladder with rungs, which is fixed to the wall when not needed. Movable models look the most practical: folding, telescopic, sliding and scissor.
Often in search of information about folding models, you can find mention of sectional, articulated, folding stairs. All these are different variants of the same type - folding, since this is the principle of the design. We do not confuse sectional folding models with spans of the same type, but with bowstrings as a basis. The latter are ordinary steps, fixed on hollow bars, which are called bowstrings, one of which is rigidly fixed to the wall, and the second rises on the hinges of the steps.
Folding ladder - design features
To begin with, let's look at folding models that are made of both metal (aluminum, stainless steel) and wood in combination with steel parts. Regardless of the height of the ceiling, even if you can reach it with your hand, a folding staircase to the attic will always consist of at least 3 sections, both purchased and made by yourself, the drawings rarely differ in this regard.
The fact is that the supports of the lower section must necessarily rest against the floor, and if only 2 long knees are made, the attic hatch will have to be greatly extended in length. This, in turn, will take away some of the useful attic space. When you should take into account its slope to the floor, it is never installed strictly vertically. Accordingly, the lid should fold down not at a straight line, but at an acute angle of about 70-75 degrees. In this case, the hinge between the two upper sections becomes the center of the arc that the folding knee describes, and therefore the hatch must be such that Bottom part the second section did not touch its edge.
The line between the supports resting on the floor is 20-30 centimeters further than the edge of the attic opening, which provides a fairly comfortable angle for the position of the stairs. The last factor is also true for telescopic or scissor designs. The topmost section of the folding model is usually attached directly to the manhole cover so that opening it simultaneously begins to feed the folded sections down.
Therefore, the suspensions holding the sash must be strong enough, they are best chosen based on a load of 150 kilograms. attic stairs with your own hands should be made with a large margin of safety, if it is actively used with frequent visits to the attic, best of all - from metal. An exception may be steps, they can be made of wood so as not to make the structure too heavy. Sections are connected by conventional one-piece articulated or lever hinges.
Telescopic attic ladder - buy or make it yourself?
Retractable telescopic sections seem to be a very difficult device to manufacture at home, and many people buy ready-made along with an attic hatch. However, you can get by with the purchase of only a retractable ladder, which is often found in construction stores next to the tools. Her distinguishing feature– aluminum sections and plastic elements for fixing crossbars.
Such a staircase to the attic is mounted with your own hands on the hatch, the thinnest part above the hinges of the lid that folds down. It will not be possible to fix it rigidly on the latter due to the fact that the telescopic knees are rather short, and fixing at least one, in addition to the top one, will prevent the ladder from moving forward.
Before you make and install such an attic staircase with your own hands, you need to carefully measure the distance from the floor to the ceiling of the upper residential floor. If the fully extended knees are too long even with the structure tilted, the 1-2 upper sections can be rigidly fixed to the hatch in a semi-extended or folded position. Worse, if the ladder supports do not reach the floor, in this case it will be necessary to mount it on drop hangers without mounting to the edge of the hatch opening, the cover of which will be held by separate levers.
At self assembly mechanism for lowering the entire structure down, it is better to fix the hangers on the ladder racks with steel clamps, possibly with their through bolt fixation to the support. The telescopic ladder can be kept lowered by both purchased crank arms and conventional cables. For the hatch cover, in addition to suspensions, springs will be needed, which, in addition to holding it in the closed position, will allow it to be lifted without special efforts. However, the upper pull-out sections of the ladder can also be equipped with such springs (even blocks are used for such an operation, which will be discussed later).
Sliding sectional structure for access to the attic
Many people think that a retractable telescopic ladder to the attic is identical to a sliding model, but the difference between them is quite significant when making it yourself. If in the first variant the sections of the length of the rack between two crossbars are extended one from the other, then in the second case they consist of 5-6 steps and slide one along the other along the outer guides.
In other words, the telescopic design is more compact, but the sliding one is easier to do on your own. After all, it is easier to assemble sections moving along a skid than to pick up pipe segments different diameter, not to mention fixing these segments so that they do not fall apart when extended. As for the assembly of sliding stairs, they can be different. The simplest option - all sections of the same size and stacked one on top of the other, with a connection on a skid with rollers.
Another type - the lower sections are narrower than the upper ones and are located one inside the other, according to the principle of a fire escape. In this case, the supports of the upper knee should be wider than the lower one so that the section easily fits over the crossbars, while the sled is located on the inside of the uprights, and the rollers on the outside. For such a model, the uppermost knee, regardless of the type of construction, must be rigidly fixed on the hatch cover, equipped with strong suspensions and springs.
Scissor attic ladder - advanced technology
This option is perhaps the most interesting, since it makes it possible to climb into the under-roof premises along full-fledged flat steps of sufficient width to comfortably place the sole of the foot. At the same time, the ladder folds as compactly as the telescopic ladder. This design has one undeniable advantage: if you attach a spring to at least one section, pulling it up into the hatch, the tension element will fold all the knees, which are interconnected levers.
The whole design resembles several dozen scissors, which are hinged in pairs with rings and knife tips. Steps are always mounted at the intersection points of the metal strips, where the scissors have a screw. At the same time, they are rigidly fixed in relation to the axes, which have a rotation limitation. It is not difficult to make such attic stairs with your own hands, you just need to have 100 metal strips available for 25 steps, preferably made of durable stainless steel.
Each 2 strips are connected with a bolt exactly in the center, and then the resulting X-shaped elements are movably attached to each other using short bushings. Steps are installed at the crosshairs. At the same time, so that they do not sway, you need to either hang them a little lower on the corners, or make limiting protrusions on opposite metal strips.
Attention - when folding the scissor sections, be careful not to pinch your fingers between the planks.
Folding ladder fixed on the wall
There are 2 ways possible here, how to make a ladder to the attic. At the very beginning, we mentioned that two-section folding ladders are impractical if the hatch has small size. However, such a model can be mounted on the wall if the opening is located at the edge of the ceiling. In this case, we make 2 sections, short and long, and we fix the second one under the very hatch, with loops on thick timber attached to top point walls. The second knee is made longer than the remaining distance to the floor, and is hinged below the beams of the first, so that in the folded position it is between the wall and the long section.
Another do-it-yourself folding attic ladder is made on inclined bowstrings with full steps instead of rungs. One board is rigidly fixed on the wall, as we have already mentioned above. Loops are screwed to it for mounting movable treads, to which, in turn, also on hinges, we fasten the second bowstring, even with railings on rod balusters. In the upper part, under the opening, we make an emphasis for the descending bowstring board. In order for the whole structure to be kept in a tilted up position, it must be hooked to a metal loop specially attached to the wall.
In most cases, the attic is used to store unused and old things. In past times, few people could dare to use it for living space. Today, in pursuit of everyone square meter many rebuild attic space making living room. Accordingly, the attic ladder in this case plays a key role. In this article, we will look at the manufacture of this piece of furniture from different angles, and find out what types of stairs to the attic exist.
Devices and types of structures
Stairs are installed both outside and inside the house. The last option has much more advantages. To get into the attic, you do not need to go through the yard. There are several types of staircase designs:
Monolithic.
- Marching.
Folding attic stairs.
- Folding.
- Scissor.
- Telescopic.
- Folding or lever.
Portable.
- Attached.
- Stepladders.
As for the latter option, such stairs are often used as temporary structures. For example, they are applicable in cases where the attic does not have to be used so often. Portable ladders are not so reliable.
If we talk about reliability, then, of course, it should be noted monolithic stairs, which have a wide march and reliable railings. But if you have small room, then it will be almost impossible to accommodate it. In such circumstances perfect option stairs are retractable. It is easy to operate, safe and ergonomic.
Ladder-transformer folding
Mostly, the transformer ladder is made of metal or wood. If these two materials are combined, then the result will be very worthy. For example, a flight of stairs is made of wood, and important components are made of metal: fastening, mechanism and springs. Wood will lighten the entire structure, and metal will add strength. For the manufacture of wooden elements It is better to use hardwoods.
In some situations, you can use plastic fittings. In the process of transformation, the plastic levels friction. According to the opening method, folding stairs are manual and automatic. A weight is attached to the ladder for easy manual opening.
The main requirements for folding attic stairs are compact dimensions and strength. Aesthetics also play an important role. appearance structures.
Retractable ladder with retractable flights
Scissor ladders are very popular. Its production is carried out only from metal parts. In another way, it is called "accordion". But they have a number negative qualities. For example, after a while flight of stairs will make an unpleasant creak as some parts will wear out. But this can be prevented by timely lubrication of each working connection.
telescopic ladder
This type of construction consists of sections that are retractable. When folded, it takes up little space, as the parts are assembled one into the other. They are mostly made from aluminium. telescopic ladder has high strength.
Sectional and hinged
It can have 1-4 sections. The first is fixed on the lid. Subsequent sections are interconnected and form a uniform flight of stairs. They are equipped with hinges and special hinges.
folding
If you don't have free space, folding ladder It has clear benefits. In most cases, it is folded into the wall. It can be pulled out if necessary. Using card loops, the steps are fixed on a bowstring. When it is folded, it hides against the wall.
General requirements for attic stairs
It should be mentioned about the standard dimensions of such structures:
- The permissible march width is 650 mm.
- It is not recommended to make a ladder more than 3000 mm in height. This will result in less structural rigidity, resulting in an accident. Among other things, too high construction will be difficult to fold.
- Steps in the amount of 13 to 15 pieces.
- Between the steps there should be a gap of no more than 19.3 cm. Otherwise, the operation of the stairs will be difficult.
- The step should have a thickness of 1.8 to 2.2 cm.
- The standard tilt angle is 60–75°.
- The entire structure must withstand a weight of up to one hundred and fifty kilograms.
- The location of the steps is only parallel to the floor. For complete safety, they can be glued with anti-slip pads.
Separately, it should be noted the size of the hatch. The standard size is 120 × 70 cm. If the opening is smaller, then it will be inconvenient to climb. With large hatch sizes, there will be large heat losses. If your attic will not be heated, then the hatch must be steam and heat insulated.
Location of attic stairs
The stairs should not interfere with living in the house. For this reason, installing stairs in the kitchen or in the bedroom would be impractical. Therefore, it can be placed, for example, in a corridor, a hall. The selected room must be of the appropriate size. In some cases, such stairs are used as an interior detail, so in some cases it can not be hidden. It is recommended to make a preliminary drawing to represent the staircase in your interior.
Production of a ladder from two sections
If you want to make a simple staircase without complex mechanisms, then a two-section staircase is ideal. To make it you will need:
- Wood saw.
- Roulette.
- Ladder.
- Card loops along the width of the stringer - 4 pieces.
- Timber - 2 pieces 2–3 cm thick. The length should be equal to the width of the hatch.
- Hinges, screws, hook and anchor.
With the help of a loop, a short beam is fixed to the upper end of the stairs. The second, similar segment of the bar, on the bottom. They must be fixed obliquely, otherwise they will interfere with the movement. Such a design will be quite rigid. After, measure out 2/3 of the stairs and make a neat cut. Using metal loops, connect the two parts.
The hinges must be properly fastened, otherwise the ladder will open in the wrong direction.
Now, on the wall under the hatch, mount the top bar. To prevent the ladder from opening when folded, you can use a hook. To do this, screw the loop next to the cut, and the hook at the appropriate distance into the wall. Attic two-section ladder is ready!
One of the disadvantages of this design is that it is always in sight. But if you make a little more effort, then with your own hands you can build a ladder that will be hidden in the hatch.
We hide the ladder behind the hatch
This type of ladder has three sections, but in this case it will be successfully located in the hatch. First of all, decide on its location. For example, the opening has dimensions of 120 × 65 cm. Then, to prevent heat loss, the hatch should be cut 7–8 mm wider on each side. To work, you will need the following material:
- A bar with a section of 50 × 50 mm - 2 long and 2 short.
- Plywood, 10 mm thick.
- Plywood, 4 mm thick, for making scarves.
- PVA glue.
- Self-tapping screws.
At the end of each bar, make a drank halfway through its thickness. After these places, coat with glue and connect everything together in a groove into a rectangle. For strength between themselves, you can additionally twist with self-tapping screws. To get the exact diagonal out of 4 mm plywood, cut a scarf.
When the glue is dry, dismantle the scarves and fasten the 10 mm plywood sheet with self-tapping screws. Now try on the design in the opening. If everything fits, then the measurements were taken accurately.
For an aesthetic look, cut a door latch into the lid. With the help of a screwed handle, it will be possible to open the hatch on the latch.
Mechanism for stairs with a hatch - articulated without spring
One of the important components of a folding attic ladder is the opening mechanism. The easiest method is to buy it. But if you want to save family budget it can be done by hand.
For this you will need:
- Corner - 1 piece.
- Piece of metal sheet.
- Two strips of different lengths.
- Bolts M10.
- Drill.
- Malka.
- Jigsaw.
- Teskey.
- Clamps.
Manufacturing technology:
- The first step is a drawing on the cardboard stairs. In this case, the approximate angle of its inclination in the open state should be indicated.
- Now cut out an example of construction and individual parts from cardboard. This will allow you to choose correct length hinge.
- On metal strips, measure the holes for the hinge. Distances are measured according to preliminary measurements. The hole is made for the M10 bolt.
- You collect these parts together and slightly tighten.
- Now measure the desired angle using the bevel. Then move the mechanism to the desired angle.
- On the metal, mark the area that, when opened, will overlap with a corner. Cut it out with a jigsaw.
- At this stage, attach the stripes marketable condition. Round off the corners and trim off any excess. This will allow them not to cling to each other and, accordingly, not to interfere with each other.
- After removing excess metal, the corner will rest in the desired position. The first mechanism is ready!
- To prepare the second mechanism, fasten each pair of parts together with clamps. This will make an identical part. Drill holes.
- Insert a bolt into the finished hole and drill a second one.
- Having twisted the blanks with two bolts, level them in length and give the same shape.
By this principle, you make all parts of the mechanism. As a result, you will be able to make two identical parts of the mechanism.
When the mechanisms are ready, they should be attached to the hatch that was made earlier. In this case, you should try on the hatch with mechanisms to the opening.
In the open position, the hatch should not touch the walls of the opening. If necessary, it can be adjusted. In order for the whole structure to be well kept, one more important detail should be made. To do this, take two strips, the width of which is 2 cm, as well as a corner. To the end of one of the strips, weld a small piece of metal. A corner will act as a support platform.
So, you will make a hinge that, in the open position, will bend slightly, but at the same time withstand the entire load. Among other things, it must be fully disclosed. This will evenly distribute the load created by the hinged ladder.
Staircase made of wood on bowstrings
Let's make a ladder out of wood. Take an inch board, ten centimeters wide. It is useful for making bowstrings and steps. The first section is made exactly along the length of the hatch, the second is similar, and the third is slightly smaller. As for the last section, its length should be equal to the remaining distance between the floor and the two sections when unfolded. Here you will also need to use small. Measure the slope of the angle of the ladder in its unfolded state. Transfer these measurements to the board and mark the steps. This is done on two long sections. These lines should be applied evenly on two boards. To do this, they can be fastened with tape. The applied lines should be mirrored. In places where there will be hinge loops, drill 25 holes with a pen.
The holes should be on both sides of the boards, so first make holes on the inside, and then on the outside. Grind each hole with a milling cutter.
This will give the blanks an aesthetic look. Saw the boards at the junctions of the segments.
cut into required amount steps, sand them. For each step on the bowstring, make small holes in 5 mm. Assemble the entire structure with PVA glue and self-tapping screws.
Making metal loops
To connect the sections of the march, loops should also be made. Thanks to their presence, the ladder will fold and unfold, respectively. For this purpose, it will be necessary to take a metal strip 2.5 cm wide. You will need eight such strips. To four of them, weld a small piece of a similar strip. In each of them, make holes that will be used to attach the stairs.
Now lay the first and second segment of the stairs on flat surface. The joint between them must be sufficiently tight. Screw the hinge so that the hinge bolt fits into the recess in the center of the connected sections. On the other hand, the edge of the bowstring will be a guide. After screwing on the two hinges, check the ladder for bending. If everything is working properly, use the same example to connect the third segment.
Installation of a folding structure in the opening
Now there is very little left. When all the parts you made are finished and interconnected, you can proceed with installation in the opening.
First of all, treat all metal parts with a metal primer, spray paint and apply two coats of varnish to the wooden elements.
When the whole structure is dry, it remains to fix it with anchors in the opening to the attic. After a lot of work, the folding ladder is ready! You can find photo instructions at the end of the article.
How to make a folding attic ladder?
You can climb to the attic or to the attic made by you using a folding ladder. To do this, you will need the following building material:
- For the manufacture of a bowstring 2 boards. Thickness 30 mm, width 200 mm. The length directly depends on the angle of inclination of the stairs and the height of the ceiling.
- Boards for stairs. Width 120 mm, thickness 30 mm, length 500 mm.
- There are two card loops for each step.
- Self-tapping screws.
- Anker.
- Hook for fixing the structure on the wall.
For successful assembly of the stairs to the ceiling, the upper edge of the stationary bowstring should not reach 550 mm.
So, all the work is done in the following sequence:
- Anchor one bowstring to the wall. The mount itself must be rigid, since the entire structure will be held on it.
- Mark out the steps. The position of the first mark parallel to the floor. Spend a segment, the length is equal to the width of the step 120 mm.
- Now draw two parallel straight lines through the ends of the segment parallel to the edges of the bowstring.
- Then draw a perpendicular from the end of the first segment.
- Step back from this line to the right by 10 mm and draw a line parallel to the perpendicular.
- The point of intersection of this line with the upper one, which is drawn parallel to the edge of the bowstring, determines the location of the next step. According to this principle, the marking of all subsequent steps is carried out.
To prevent the steps from rubbing against each other when folding, an indent of one centimeter is required between them. Transfer all this markup to the second string and fasten the steps in the marked places. As for the loops, they should be located on a stationary bowstring so that they eventually raise the steps up, and lower the movable bowstring down. Accordingly, in suitable places a hook is mounted on the wall. This is perhaps the easiest and fastest method of making a folding loft ladder.
Small business
So, we have considered with you several options for making attic stairs with your own hands. Of course, at first it may seem that this is an unthinkable task, but with effort and diligence, everything can be done. Leave your comments on this article and share your impressions!
A photo
In most private houses, attics and attics are operated premises. And to get on ground floor Of course you need a ladder.
Types of attic stairs - device and construction types
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 to the attic, which is in winter time year is very important. In addition, in the absence of access to the street, the attic does not come into contact with cold air, which significantly reduces heat loss.
By type of construction, the following types of attic stairs are distinguished:
- Monolithic:
- screw;
- marching.
- Folding loft ladders:
- scissor;
- folding or lever;
- telescopic or sliding ladders;
- folding.
- Portable:
- ladders;
- attached.
Portable stairs are usually used as a temporary option for connecting floors. They are used during the construction of a house or to access attic spaces that are rarely used. They are not safe.
The most convenient, of course, are the traditional monolithic stairs, with a wide march and railings. But it is far from always possible to place a massive structure leading to the attic - there may simply not be enough space.
In this case, retractable attic stairs will be the best option. 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 ladder-transformer
Attic folding stairs are made of wood and metal (aluminum). The combination of these materials gives top scores. A flight of stairs is made of wood to reduce the weight of the structure, and springs, mechanisms and fasteners are made of metal to 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 beam must be at least 2 cm. The tree should not be used when the folding ladder is used too intensively, because this leads to rapid wear. In this case the best option- metal attic stairs.
Also used plastic fittings, which prevents friction of components during transformation and seals the opening when the product is in the folded state. The manhole cover is filled with polystyrene foam and provides good thermal insulation.
Folding attic stairs can be opened both manually and automatically, using an electric drive. Often, when manual drive a load is attached to the mechanism, which significantly facilitates the assembly process, as if pulling the ladder into a niche and, on the contrary, smoothly lowers it, compensating for the weight of the product.
The main requirements for such products are compact dimensions and strength. The aesthetics of the model is also important - a good transformer staircase should merge with the ceiling.
Standard dimensions of attic stairs:
- the width of the stairs. The optimal width is about 65 cm;
- ladder height. 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 injury. The process of lowering or raising it will also be inconvenient. In this case, you still have to opt for a monolithic staircase;
- number of steps. Usually equal to 14 or 15;
- distance between steps. It's 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 is in the range from 18 to 22 mm;
- the angle of the stairs. Standard value It is customary to consider a value from 60 to 75 degrees. With a greater slope, it will be dangerous to use the stairs, with a smaller slope, the product will take up too much space;
- folding attic ladder must withstand a weight of at least 150 kg;
- steps should be parallel to the floor and not slip, or anti-slip pads should be glued to the steps.
When buying folding attic stairs, it is necessary to take into account that the product parameters must match the dimensions of the hatch cover, otherwise, the folding parts will touch the opening. The hatch is considered optimal, in which it is built sliding ladder 70 cm wide and 120 cm long. smaller sizes opening, uncomfortable to climb. If the dimensions of the hatch are too large, then large heat losses are possible. Since the attic is an unheated room, it is necessary to provide good heat and vapor barrier.
When choosing the angle of inclination of the stairs to the attic, it is important to consider that the smaller the angle, the larger the dimensions need to be. attic hatch and the more space the ladder takes up when unfolded.
Sliding attic stairs - retractable marches to the attic
scissor ladder
As a rule, they are made entirely of metal. They also bear the name "accordion staircase", which has taken root due to the fact that the structure is folded in the form of an accordion. And the transformation mechanism resembles a sliding tram current collector and is shaped like a parallelogram or an oval.
A retractable staircase to the attic has one drawback inherent in cheap models. Due to the fact that the structure is completely made of metal, with poor-quality assembly or over time, the flight of stairs begins to creak. This can be avoided by periodically lubricating the retractable ladder.
Telescopic ladders
The telescopic ladder consists of many retractable sections that fold into one another. Made from aluminum for light weight and rigidity. In the domestic market, a sliding attic ladder is quite rare and is not very popular.
Folding stairs to the attic - sectional and articulated
Folding stairs can consist of two, three or four sections, depending on the design. The first knee has a length equal to the dimensions of the hatch cover, and is rigidly fixed to it. The other two segments open up and form an even flight of stairs. Sectional stairs are so mobile thanks to special hinges and hinges.
Reclining ladder
If you really love order, suffer from a panicky lack of space, and you have a second floor or attic, a folding staircase can be a great option to meet all your needs at once. The idea is the following: most time, the structure is folded and fixed on the wall, and only in the evening, when you need to go up to the bedroom, you put it forward.
The steps are attached to the bowstring with card loops. When folded, the structure is fixed on the wall. The reclining design is not very popular because of its complexity, but later in the article we will still tell you how to do it yourself.
Do-it-yourself attic folding stairs
Option number 1 - a simple design of 2 sections
Do-it-yourself attic stairs are made within 2-3 hours. To make an attic ladder we need:
- hacksaw for woodworking;
- measuring tape;
- stairs, the height of which will be about 30 cm more than the distance to the ceiling;
- four card loops as wide as a kosour;
- two bars, the length of which is equal to the width of the hatch and two more bars, longer than the first, by about 20 cm. The thickness of the bars is 2-3 cm;
- self-tapping screws, anchors, hook and eyelet.
We fasten one of the short bars to the upper end of the ladder with the help of loops, the other is rigidly fixed to the bottom. Two slats are attached to the flight of stairs obliquely so that they do not interfere with movement. They will give the whole structure rigidity.
Next, we measure 2/3 of the length of the stairs and make a neat cut. Then we connect both parts with the help of loops. It is important to attach loops right side so that the ladder folds in the correct direction, as shown in the photo.
The upper bar is fixed to the wall immediately under the hatch. So that the folding ladder to the attic does not open, it is fixed to the wall with a hook. The eyelet is screwed into the kosour next to the cut, and the hook is fixed to the wall.
The disadvantage of this model is that it remains in sight. This can be avoided by using the product more than 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 number 2 - a hatch to the attic with a ladder
We will tell you how to make a ladder to the attic, consisting of 3 sections, which is identical in design to those sold in stores. Here is such a folding attic ladder we should succeed.
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 from improvised means. First, we will determine the location and size of the opening, and then we will make a hatch. Let's say the size of the stairway is 125 by 70 cm. Then, in order 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.
From the material you will need:
- four bars 50 × 50 mm - two short and two long;
- 10mm plywood sheet (in our case, two panels are used - unfortunately, there was no solid sheet at hand).
At the ends of the bars we make cuts in half the thickness, coat with glue and fix with self-tapping screws, after checking the diagonals. In order for the diagonal not to go away, you should use temporary scarves made of 4 mm plywood. After, we remove them and already fasten a sheet of 10 mm plywood (the photo shows how the sheet is fixed along the perimeter with PSh screws). Next, try on the opening.
In order for the hatch to close well and there are no locks outside, we cut a door latch into the lid. Our packaging said "reinforced". To open the latch, we will use an old handle (you can use any device in the form of a cylinder), which is inserted into a special hole. The latch holds the hatch well, very convenient.
Attic ladder mechanism with hatch - articulated without spring
The turn has come to the most difficult - the opening mechanisms. All components, of course, can be bought in the store, but we will go the hard way and do everything ourselves.
To begin with, let's draw on cardboard a drawing of an attic staircase with an approximate angle at which the hatch should open. Cut out the cardboard parts and try on the design. Thus, you can quite accurately choose the length of the hinges.
I think everyone in the garage will find iron corners, trim strips and pieces sheet metal, in general, everything from which you can make a mechanism for stairs. For one mechanism we need:
- one corner;
- piece of sheet metal;
- two strips of different lengths.
We mark the holes for the hinges, the distances of which we previously estimated empirically, and drill them under the M10 bolt. Assemble together without tightening the bolts too much. With a small one, we measure the desired opening angle of the hatch and push the future mechanism to the selected angle. We mark on the metal the area that, when opened, overlaps the corner and cut it out with a jigsaw.
We bring the strips of metal into the proper form, cutting off the excess length and rounding the ends. So they will not touch the corner and interfere with each other. We assemble the whole mechanism again. After we removed part of the metal, the corner began to abut and stop in the desired position.
So, one mechanism is ready, now we proceed to the manufacture of the second. It is very important that it turns out exactly the same, but in a mirror version. To do this, we fasten each pair of parts with clamps and drill the necessary holes.
After one hole is cut out, insert a bolt into it and drill the second one.
Then, twisting both parts with bolts, we level them in length.
In this way we make all the parts.
The output should be two completely identical mechanisms.
Now we will 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 got out of the overlap. Because of what 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 let's make another simple mechanism to support the whole structure. We 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, into which the second strip will abut. From the corner we make a support platform.
The result should be a hinge, which, when opening the hatch, remains slightly bent and at the same time holds the load. Subsequently, this node will need to be installed in such a way that it is fully expanded when the mechanisms made earlier are opened to the maximum. Then the load that the hinged ladder creates will be equally distributed between them.
Do-it-yourself wooden staircase on bowstrings
Do-it-yourself staircase to the attic is constructed from wooden planks. We will cut the bowstring and steps from 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 less 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 that is left to the floor.
We measure the angle of inclination of the hatch in the open position with a small one and transfer it to the board, thereby marking the steps. Next, mark the length of the sections.
Pressing the boards tightly against each other and fastening them with molar tape, we transfer all the markings to the second board (the lines should be in mirror image). Using a pen at 25, we drill a hole where the hinge hinge will subsequently be located.
Now attention, we made the mistake of drilling both holes on the same side, because the second recess should be on outside boards, as noted in the photo.
For a more aesthetic look, we grind all the edges with a milling cutter.
On the bowstrings of the stairs we make small recesses (5 mm) for the steps. Using glue and PSh screws, we collect all the details together. It should turn out just like in the photo.
The space between the ceiling and the roof in private houses is occupied by the attic. It is used by the owners to store things, provides an opportunity to inspect and repair the inside. roofing cake. A folding ladder installed to get to the attic can be made by hand. portable structures stepladders are not always convenient and reliable. The stationary version, which is easily extended if necessary, and most of the time is in the folded state, will become optimal model for a small space.
- Place of installation:
- outdoor - mounted outside the building, the disadvantage is the need to leave the premises in any weather;
- internal - located in the house.
- By design:
- monolithic - screw or marching;
- portable - attached, ladders;
- folding - sliding, folding, scissor, folding.
Monolithic structures provide complete safety of lifting to the attic. But occupy usable area rooms. Portable models are convenient as a temporary option, but they are not suitable for permanent use due to the increased risk of injury. Best Choice a folding ladder is considered, which takes up a minimum of space. This design is often attached to the hatch, it has a compact size, and making it yourself will save money.
Features of folding structures
Transforming models have several options, from which you can choose the right one for your home. When designing a product, one should take into account not only the dimensions, but also the design features. The minimum number of sections of a folding ladder should be 3 pieces. A 2-piece model will require a significant increase in the size of the attic hatch. Folding ladder lowered manually, using a weight for weighting, or automatically, using an electric drive.
Varieties of folding attic stairs
telescopic model consists of parts that slide into each other. The material for it is aluminum, which is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. It is compact, functional, will last a long time, but it is difficult to make such a product with your own hands. A variant of mounting on a hatch of a finished structure is possible.
scissor model made from metal parts. It develops according to the principle of an accordion. Rugged construction with comfortable steps has one drawback - over time, a creak appears at the joints. Preventing the problem will allow timely lubrication of the attachment points.
The scissor ladder is reliable and has a beautiful appearance
Folding ladder will not take up a single extra centimeter. It is difficult to design and install. Its steps are attached to the bowstring with card loops, and in the folded position, the folding model is fixed on the wall.
Retractable ladder the attic consists of several sections, top part firmly attached to the hatch, it is equal to the size of the cover. The remaining sections are connected by special fittings and hinges. When unfolded, they form an even flight of stairs. It is easy to bring the product into working position, thanks to its mobility. The difference between the telescopic and sliding models is in the way the sections slide. In the first case, they are placed one inside the other, and in the second, they move with the help of rollers from the outside along the guides.
The attic climb structure should be installed in a place where it will not interfere, usually a hall or corridor. Sliding and folding stairs are adjusted to standard dimensions, which are designed with safety in mind:
- the angle of inclination of the structure is 65-75 degrees, a larger value will make use unsafe, and a smaller one will require a lot of space for placement;
- the optimal width of the stairs is 65 cm;
- the recommended number of steps is 13-15 pieces;
- the length of the structure should be about 3.5 m, with an increase, it loses rigidity and strength, the processes of lowering and lifting become more complicated;
- convenient distance between the steps for movement - 19.3 cm;
- a ladder made by one's own hands is calculated for a load of up to 150 kg;
- the safe thickness of the steps is 1.8-2.2 cm;
- horizontal crossbars are mounted parallel to the floor, for safety they are supplemented with anti-slip pads.
The attic hatch also has standard dimensions, its parameters are 120x70cm, they provide unhindered passage and minimal heat loss.
Materials for manufacturing
The materials from which the stairs are made with their own hands are subject to requirements for strength and weight. The design for frequent use due to rapid wear is not made of wood. Metal - best option for such a product, it will ensure safe and durable operation.
To reduce the total weight of the ladder attached to the hatch, the combination of materials will allow. Steps are made from lighter wood. Bars are used hard rock wood about 2 cm thick. To connect the products, metal or plastic fittings are installed, the latter reduces the friction of the parts. In the folded position, the structure is attached to the hatch, which eliminates spontaneous loss.
Manufacturing technology of a simple folding design
If the hatch is located near the edge of the ceiling, then for lifting you can install a folding ladder of two sections with your own hands, which will rest on the wall. The basis for the design can be ready product, it will take about two hours to transform it.
A simple folding ladder that is easy to do with your own hands
Tools for work:
- screwdriver;
- roulette;
- hacksaw.
Materials:
- wooden blocks measuring 2x3 cm;
- card loops;
- self-tapping screws;
- hook and loop.
- Take two bars equal to the width of the stairs. One is hinged to the upper edge, and the second is firmly fixed at the bottom, ensuring the stability of the unfolded structure.
- The ladder used is divided into two parts - one of them is 2/3 of the length, and the second is 1/3. A neat cut of the bowstring is performed along the intended line.
- Metal hinges are screwed to connect the sections. Pay attention to how the fittings are located. It should ensure that the lower part of the ladder folds under the upper one.
- A bar is fixed on the wall under the attic opening, to which the folding structure is attached.
- For reliable fixation in the folded position, a loop is screwed in near the sawing point, and a hook is installed on the wall in the appropriate place.
The advantage of such a product is the ease of doing it yourself, and the disadvantage is an open location.
Manufacture of the hatch
If a folding ladder is placed on the cover of the opening, it is not visible from the room and will not interfere with the interior. Simple drawings will help determine the dimensions of the hatch and the product. Having measured the sides of the passage to the attic, they begin to assemble the hatch with their own hands.
You need to prepare the following materials:
- bars with a section of 50x50m;
- plywood sheet 10 mm;
- PVA glue;
- fasteners;
- door latch with handle.
Two parts equal to the length of the opening and two similar to its width (120x70 cm) are cut off from the bar. Each edge of the bar is sawn to half the width. These sections are smeared with PVA glue and glued together into a rectangle. To keep the exact diagonal on the frame are attached right triangles made of plywood, called scarves. After the glue dries, the bars are additionally connected with self-tapping screws, and the scarves are removed. A prepared plywood sheet is screwed to the workpiece. The design will fit to the opening. To keep the hatch in the closed position, a door latch is cut into it. The fittings have a convenient handle with which the hatch will open.
Assembling the opening mechanism
Making a hatch opening mechanism with your own hands is a rather complicated process to make the task easier, it is enough to purchase a finished product in a store.
Those who decide to assemble the entire structure on their own should prepare metal corner, two strips and a sheet of metal.
In order not to be mistaken with the size of the hinges, they are initially cut out of cardboard. After fitting, proceed to work with metal.
- Places for fastening according to the template are marked on the metal strip.
- Holes are drilled for a bolt with a diameter of 10.
- Details are assembled and baited with bolts. The selected angle of fixation of the stairs is measured with a small one, and then the parts are moved apart by the desired value.
- On the metal, a section is indicated, which, when lowered, is blocked by a corner. This area is cut off. Removing the excess, the details are processed to give an aesthetic appearance.
- The second mechanism should be identical to the one already made. For an exact match of the holes, the parts are connected with a clamp and drilled.
- Having inserted bolts into the second mechanism, it is equalized according to the model, cutting off excess metal.
- Ready-made opening mechanisms are installed by hand on the hatch . They will create an emphasis, fixing the folding structure at the right angle.
To ensure uniform distribution of the load will allow the installation of a second hinge mechanism that supports the hatch in the middle. You will need: two metal strips 2 cm wide, a corner and a piece of metal. The corner serves as a support for the mechanism when opening. A piece of metal is welded to one part, against which the second part rests. When lowering the hatch, the hinge will move apart, taking part of the weight of the structure.
Wooden staircase, do it yourself
The easiest way is to make a wooden structure, the material will be a 2.5x10 cm board. The product consists of three sections, the first two are equal in length to the hatch, and the size of the last is the distance remaining to the floor.
The length of the sections is marked on two boards used to make the bowstring. The marks should mirror each other, therefore, before work, the workpieces are connected with adhesive tape. Holes for the hinges are drilled in the designated places, after which the boards are sawn. To make it attractive wooden details sanded and covered with two layers of varnish. Do-it-yourself metal hinges are coated with a primer and paint before installation.
Holes 5 mm deep are cut out under the fasteners of the steps on the inside of the bowstring. PVA glue is applied to them, and then fixed with self-tapping screws. The next step is to connect the three sections into a common structure using hinges. After checking the possibility of bending the parts, the ladder is fixed to the hatch. The upper section of the product is fixed on it with anchors. Folding ladder to the attic is ready.
In contact with
Attic stairs are one of the typical types of stairs for country houses. They provide maximum comfort and space savings. For lifting, you can use a stepladder or an applied ladder. Security plays a critical role. Therefore, it is best to acquire just such a type of lifting tool.
Attic stairs are divided into three types:
- Sliding or telescopic.
- Scissor or pincer.
- Folding or lever.
Sliding stairs have two or a couple of departments. Departments can be decomposed, they protrude from one another. Good side this option: the sides of the attic are larger than the hatch itself. The advantage of this ladder is that there are no lever mechanisms in it. Levers are the weak link of any design. This ladder is the most reliable, and strong for loads.
Folding structures are made of 3-4 sections. The first compartment must be screwed to. Sections are screwed together special details with which you can fold and unfold the ladder. To unfold, pull the ring or string with a stick.
To understand what kind of scissor model, imagine an accordion. She has a lot of levers, which are fixed by special clamps.
All versions of the stairs are made up of a pair of departments that can be folded into each other. It turns out a small design, which quickly folds and unfolds. The roof can be closed with an attic hatch, then the stairs are invisible.
Detailed description of stairs
Recently, the demand for the use of the entire area in the house has multiplied among the owners of houses. Many people have a habit of bringing in Vacation home all unnecessary trash that is a pity to throw away or will be needed later. Stairs have a slope of 45%, which is why they are considered steep. They are of small height, have a few steps, approximately 10-15 pieces. Attic stairs are constructed from lightweight material so that they are lightweight.
The type of material from which the stairs are made must withstand the weight of the owner, but at the same time be durable and practical. In most cases, ancient objects with their own weight are taken out to the attic, and the main function is to hold the weight of a person and objects.
Many attics are decorated with attic stairs, they are available to many buyers. Constructions modern type stairs have many advantages: convenience, compactness, ease of use, comfort. Stairs take up little space, they have good functionality, a large assortment.
They are inexpensive, so you can choose the best option for your attic. Attic stairs are made from metal, wood, can be combined. They can be made with handrails, spring, folding.
Stairs can be made in any size, color, shape. Specialists will select a staircase for you according to your taste and requirements, discuss the price and functionality with you.
folding ladder The device of stairs
Anyone can install a ladder, but it is better to entrust it to a professional. Check that the mounting space is suitable for the dimensions of the structure. At this stage, there should be no problems because when choosing a model, it was necessary to compare the dimensions on the packaging of the stairs and the opening. There are companies that write the dimensions of the box instead of the dimensions of the space, in which case the opening should be increased by 0.5–1 centimeter.
First, attach a bar to the bottom of the opening - the ladder will be held on it during installation. To do this, you need two people, the first will be in the attic, and the second in the house. Raise the ladder to the attic and lay it on the bar. Spacers are installed at the attachment point, between the box and the opening, and then fix the box with two screws.
After that, the person who is in the house takes the block and decomposes the stairs. Fix it on the sides with screws. Fill the gap with mounting foam. Slightly loosen the screws on the sides of the ladder, unfold it to the end and tighten the bolts again. Install handrails and hatch guards, and feel free to use the stairs.
Construction types
Ladders and ladders are traditional, they are not very comfortable. They are used for a short time, or if the attic is not climbed very often.
Stairs of a standard type can be marching or spiral. Stairs made of wood or metal spiral type save a little space. For old people, children are not very comfortable. Marching structures are taken away a large number of places.
Folding stairs for the attic have become the most popular in our time. Stairs are different types. The sectional type is especially popular, the design is divided into a few parts. The scissor ladder is also popular.
Sliding ladder structures are made using the example of a telescope. Sections with steps move apart in turn. When this model is folded, it does not take up much space. You can extend the ladder to any distance. Such stairs are made - plastic, wooden, metal, combined. The ladder is durable and safe.
Installation of an attic ladder Advantages and disadvantages
Stair structures give us the opportunity to get more space, and are especially invisible after they are installed. The advantages of these stairs are functionality, strength, compactness, lightness.
When folded, they resemble a sunroof with a block built into the ceiling, and are not particularly noticeable. The design is easily retracted into the ceiling. Stairs are not heavy, safe, comfortable, inexpensive. The staircase has no particular drawbacks.
Attic ladder requirements
Attic stairs must be safe and durable. Many stairs are very beautiful, but non-functional. It is better when there is a railing or holders. Don't forget about fire safety if you decide to do it yourself. Remember to maintain a weight of at least 150 kilograms.
How to make an attic ladder with your own hands
The ladder can be made within 3 hours. Take: hacksaw, tape measure, ladder, 4 loops, 2, screws, hooks, loops. We take a bar, mount it to the upper end of the ladder on the hinges, and attach the second to the bottom. We fasten 2 slats on the flight of stairs obliquely.
After this step, you should measure 2-3 lengths of the ladder and carefully saw it. Fasten two pieces with loops. Attach the loops with the correct side. Fasten the bar from above under the hatch. This ladder is not hidden.
Scheme of a folding attic ladder Folding ladder do it yourself
We will need:
- Two boards, 3 centimeters thick, 20 centimeters wide.
- Boards for steps, width 12 cm, thickness 3 cm, length 20 cm.
- For each step 2 loops.
- Hooks, anchors, screws to attach the structure to the wall.
The first step is to fasten 1 bowstring to the wall. Then you need to lay out the steps. Mark the bottom step and draw a line. Draw 2 straight lines at the ends of the segments along the parallel. At the end of 1 piece we draw a perpendicular. After this line, step back to the right 1 cm.
The two points must meet. So mark the stairs. Make a gap of 1 cm in the steps, this is necessary so that the folded steps do not touch, we fasten the loops to the steps. Place the loops on the bowstring. On the piece that moves, attach the loops, and in the right place on the wall - a hook.
Materials, tools, drawings
In order to choose the material, consider some factors, decide what type of stairs you want. Decide what the width of the stairs will be, how many departments there will be, and what function it will perform. The function of the ladder plays a big role in manufacturing. For wooden stairs load should be no more than 150 kg.
Ladders made of metal can withstand approximately 250 kg. This factor does not mean that the load can be greater, but often this is not necessary. The dimensions of the stairs should not be larger than the attic space.
The material made of wood, which has very strong properties, is pine. These properties, combined with metal profile give high quality and great weight.
In order to make a staircase with your own hands, take good stuff, this material is considered pine. Pine is easy, affordable, inexpensive, well processed, of high quality in use. For work, take working and durable tools: compasses, jigsaw, saw, drill, screwdrivers.
Attic ladder drawings are made for people who know how to hold tools in their hands and do not want to overpay money for the work of professionals.
Step by step guide to making
- Prepare wood materials.
- Put in one place all the tools, screws, drill.
- Prepare the plan and dimensions of the stairs.
- Get to work. Good luck!
How to install:
- Measure the size of the future hatch and stairs on the package.
- Attach the bars to the bottom of the stairs.
- Tighten all screws and fasteners.
- Check the ladder for strength.
- Fix the ladder.
Making a staircase for a house is a very difficult process. The ladder is a very important item in the house. When building stairs, it is important not to make any mistakes.
Positive aspects: low price, easy use, safety. It is best to contact a specialist who will choose the stairs according to your requirements.
Loading...