Homemade folding stairs to the attic. We make an attic staircase with a hatch with our own hands

Every home needs more space. When all the rooms are functionally occupied, the owner of the dwelling begins to look for free space outside them. This is where a folding ladder to the attic will come in handy. It will allow to equip a workshop, a children's room, put a billiard table, a bar counter there. Preoccupied with this idea, the owner begins to think about whether to buy a ready-made staircase or make it himself.

An example of a folding metal ladder to the attic

But first, he must familiarize himself with its various options in order to choose the right one.

Depending on the place of installation, attic entrances are internal and external. Folding attic stairs outside, as a rule, are not installed. And the stationary structure installed outside is not entirely comfortable in winter, but it does not occupy a single meter of usable living space; Another option is insulated.

To prevent metal parts from being exposed to the damaging effects of precipitation, they are most often made of galvanized metal or painted with special paint.

Attic stairs are made of wood and metal. Both options are fairly durable devices. However, they can creak or rumble, although not everyone finds these sounds annoying. In addition, they can be eliminated or at least muffled by using different rugs or anti-slip pads. Wood and metal are often combined to create very attractive multi-stage structures.

Stationary

A monolithic structure with steps, usually made of wood, with handrails and railings is installed on. With the active daily use of the attic, it is complemented by a door. You can’t do without it when it is equipped as a comfortable room in the house as or adults, a rest room, a workshop that you have to visit daily.

A variant of the device of a stationary wooden staircase to the attic

For a stationary device, a separate territory is sometimes assigned - a stairwell.

Folding loft ladders

You can also buy them or make your own. They are installed in rooms with limited space, when it is impossible to build a monolithic staircase structure. Folding attic stairs have several varieties, but they are not bulky, but light, but the weight does not limit strength, because hardwood and aluminum are used for manufacturing.

scissor

Such a retractable structure is attached to the hatch cover, and unfolds to the very floor according to the principle of a tram current collector or an accordion. This design is only metal, so over time, without proper lubrication, it begins to creak. It is used in a private dwelling with non-intensive use of the attic.

Scheme of operation of the scissor ladder to the attic

The load capacity is small, but the weight of an adult can withstand reliably.

telescopic

A ladder of several sections that are packed into one another is called telescopic. Usually it is made of aluminum, so it is light and strong. But such folding stairs to the attic are not very popular with consumers. Most often they are used in construction work in the form of stepladders. When packed, they are so compact that they can be transported in the trunk of a car.

folding

This is one of the varieties of folding ladder devices, usually consisting of two sections. The first is rigidly attached to the base of the hatch. From below, a second one is attached to it with special hinges that allow it to be folded forward.

Drawing with the dimensions of the folding ladder

When there is no need for it, and the entrance to the attic is closed, the folding structure is located in the attic. If you open it, it leans back and falls to the floor.

retractable

With a lack of space, a retractable staircase to the attic is installed. It can be made of wood or metal. Extends from the hatch, which is opened manually or by means of an electric drive.

The main requirements for such a design are compactness, strength, low weight. To achieve this, durable wood and light metal are combined in the manufacture.

screw

It requires more space than folding devices. May be with or without railings. It looks very light, no matter if it is made of wood or metal. The original design, but the ascents and descents are difficult, and sometimes risky, especially for the inhabitants of the old house.

Such attic stairs are used in houses in which the exploitation of the attic is not so intensive. They can be arranged so that all steps are attached to a post that is in the center of the system. There are also such stair spirals, in which the steps are held by curved load-bearing bowstring beams.

Folding and can be bought without any problems at a building materials store that sells pine, oak, as well as metal, usually made of aluminum. The cheapest product made of pine, but in terms of strength is not inferior to other materials.

It should not be forgotten that a ready-made ladder installation needs proper care, which includes the treatment of wooden surfaces with fire impregnation, varnishing or paint.

Metal parts, hinges, rollers must be lubricated with machine oil.

But it is not always possible to find a suitable staircase on the market. Then the best option is a do-it-yourself attic staircase, which can be made in accordance with your own wishes and tastes. How to do it? There is no shortage of relevant information on the World Wide Web today. All you need is desire, the necessary materials, tools and creative enthusiasm.

Primary requirements

The attic staircase is a risk area, so it must meet the following requirements:

Stair details

The home master, who has decided to independently build a ladder structure, should familiarize himself with its components.

Structural elements of stairs to the attic floor

Then he will better understand the question of how to make the stairs to the attic in the best way.
Any attic staircase consists of details, the names of some of which may not have been previously known to the home craftsman. It would be nice to get a drawing on which they are depicted and signed.

These should include:

• Beams, which are called bowstrings and stringers;
• Railings, safety handrails;
• The edges of the steps, also having their own name: horizontal - tread, and vertical - riser;
• Flight of stairs.

Kosour

This is a solid beam in which cutouts are made for attaching steps from above, so that their ends are visible from the side. There are stair structures, in which it is one in the middle, and wooden planks are horizontally attached to it. But more often, the installation of an attic staircase for greater strength is carried out on two stringers.

Then, even visually, the whole structure looks solid, able to withstand heavy loads. The metal support is often made not in a straight line, but in a stepped shape. Making it at home is very problematic, it is easier to buy it ready-made.

bowstring

This is the name of the supporting inclined beam, and differs from the stringer one in that it hides the ends, and the steps are attached to it with the help of special grooves. Therefore, there must be two of them - on both sides of the staircase. Even a folding staircase to the attic cannot do without these beams, if it is made of wood.


With them, the stationary structure looks massive, soundly, while on the stringers it seems visually light and spacious.

Railings and handrails

It is necessary to find out if there is a difference between these concepts. A railing is a railing along the outside of a flight of stairs. From above, they are connected by handrails - this is an integral part of the fence, on which they lean with their hands. Together, they ensure the safety of movement. These elements can be metal, wood, even glass. They look very attractive if they are made of stainless steel: no protective equipment is required, especially painting, and the service life is almost unlimited. But not every consumer decides to buy them because of the high price.

A variant of the device of the railing of the stairs to the attic floor

Railings need solid, reliable. If the attic stairs with a hatch, then they should end at its very base and not interfere with the functioning of its cover.
There are also some mandatory requirements for handrails:

• The width should allow a person to grab them with his hand in order to hold on tighter;
• Height - at the level of the belt of an adult, not lower;
• To avoid injury, there should be no sharp corners at their ends;
• In appearance, they should form a single, harmonious ensemble with the entire staircase that adorns the house.

Rise and tread

The vertical part of each step is a riser. It closes the space between adjacent steps, and is also an additional support for them. Such steps are called closed, and open will be those that consist of only one horizontal plank for the feet - the so-called treads. Folding stairs to the attic are also equipped with these details.

Flight of stairs

This is an element that connects all the components into a single structure. It has a maximum of 18 steps, mounted on load-bearing beams - a bowstring or stringer. There are single-march stationary systems without turns from the floor to the entrance to the attic and multi-march systems with several spans. They must meet the same requirements that apply to all stair parts: strength, convenience, safety.

Construction of the staircase

The useful width of the march is determined by the distance from the finished wall to the inside of the handrail.

But how to get to a well-maintained attic? It is almost impossible to do this without a ladder.

The best option for a comfortable and safe climb to the attic is the original attic ladder. It can be located outside the premises or inside - as it is more convenient and expedient for the owners.

But it should be noted that using the internal staircase is somewhat more convenient: to go up to the attic, you do not have to go outside, where the weather conditions are not always excellent.

FROM There are many types of attic stairs, including:

but)
fixed stairs :

• screw.

b) portable ladders:

• attached,
• ladders.

c) folding stairs:

• scissor,
• sliding or telescopic,
• lever or folding,
• folding.

How to make a choice?

It is worth considering that the use of stationary stairs is severely limited by the impossibility of their use in small areas.

Stationary attic stairs with wide marches, equipped with railings, however, are recognized as the most convenient.

Folding ladders represent, as it were, a transitional link between portable and stationary. They are almost as convenient as the latter, but they do not require as much space. Their security level is much higher than that of mobile devices.

The choice should be wise and depend on several important factors:

portable structures are deservedly considered a temporary option, which is usually used in order to get into a rarely used room.

The main disadvantage of a portable device is a low degree of security.

attic stairs

Dimensions and standards

When arranging, it is important to take into account the list of standards that any attic staircase must comply with:

one). Its height should not exceed 3.5 m.
As this indicator increases, the rigidity of the entire structure decreases markedly. In addition, falling from such a height is much more dangerous.

2). The width of a standard march should be on average from 65 to 110 cm.

3). It is desirable that there are no more than fifteen steps.

4). The distance between the individual steps can be about 19 cm.

five). The steps have a thickness of 18-22 mm.

6). If the ladder is folding, then the minimum load it can withstand should be 150 kg.

7). The traditional angle of inclination of the structure is 60-75 degrees.
A larger angle becomes dangerous for operation, and a smaller one will require more area.

The steps must not slip.
Their location must be parallel to the floor plane.

DIY manufacturing process

Building such a device with your own hands is not as difficult as it might seem.

Of course, it is unlikely that you will get an attic staircase from the official site, beautiful and sophisticated.

But it's worth trying!

The drawings of stairs necessary for work can be easily found on the Internet. They are there for every taste.

The attic hatch is an important foundation for any staircase.

It is easy to make with your own hands, having 50 by 50 mm bars.

What will be the course of action?

Materials and tools

To make an attic ladder yourself, you will need a whole list of necessary:

• wood saw;
• with kit or set of screwdrivers;
• with foam;
• roulette;
• anchors and self-tapping screws of different sizes;
• bars 20-30 cm thick;
• card loops.

In addition, you will need an ordinary ladder (already finished) with a length of 30 cm more than the height to the level of the opening.

Attic ladder of two sections

Design

We take a wooden staircase of the right size prepared in advance. At the bottom and at the top of it we fix a couple of bars across the width: the bottom one is rigid, and the top one is on the loops. Having measured two-thirds of its entire length, we cut the stairs with a hacksaw. We get two parts of the structure: the lower one will be shorter, and the upper one will be long.

We fix a pair of slats diagonally to ensure rigidity. With the help of loops we connect the existing parts. We fix the upper bar under the hatch with anchor bolts. We fix the lower part with a hook so that it does not open on its own. On the kosour, above the place of the cut, there is a loop. The finished folding ladder is fixed to the wall surface.

We got quite comfortable and. Its main disadvantage can be considered an unfinished appearance - all the bars and fasteners are in sight. But our device will perform its functions properly, and will completely solve the problem with lifting to the attic and descending from there.

Installing the folding device

The folding device will be made on bowstrings.

Consider the phased manufacture of such a device:

1. We divide the height we have into three parts. The very first corresponds to the size of the hatch, the second will be slightly smaller, the remaining third will be equal to the distance remaining to the floor;
2. with the help of a bevel, we measure the angle of the hatch we need;
3. we transfer the indicators of this angle to the boards, thereby marking the steps;
4. sections will be connected by hinges: in their place we make holes;
5. all edges are well polished;
6. in places marked for hinges, we cut the boards;
7. cut steps and grind them;
8. in bowstrings, we cut out notches for steps in size;
9. we insert steps into them, fastening with glue and reinforcing with self-tapping screws;
10. on a flat surface we place the sections and connect them together with special loops;
11. check the work of each section separately;
12. we install the assembled structure in the opening;
13. if required, we make a final adjustment of individual parts;
14. we disassemble the resulting structure into separate elements;
15. we process every detail - we grind and;
16. We wait for it to dry completely, assemble it again, and start using it.

All work that is performed at a considerable height is preferably done with a partner. This will speed up the workflow, in addition, it will help to avoid various traumatic situations.

Be that as it may, the price of a self-made attic staircase is much lower than the cost of a purchased factory structure.

Therefore, if the financial issue of the event is important enough for you, try to make it yourself.

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

The ascent to the attic includes a ladder itself, a special hatch for penetration and a system of levers for fixing the installed span. A DIY attic staircase saves money and ensures excellent construction quality.

Classic view of a retractable staircase to the attic

There are plenty of options on how to make a staircase to the attic. Therefore, it is up to you to choose the optimal solution and implement it.

Ladder manufacturing, installation and testing are the main stages of work. But without the 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 do-it-yourself attic ladder is a great approach if you have sufficient knowledge and skills. The correct choice of the location of the hatch, its precise creation and equipment for the stairs form the basis of the entire project.

You have 2 options: use a ready-made hatch or make it yourself. The dimensions of the hole should be comfortable for lifting, so as not to touch the head with the ceiling and slings. 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 broken 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 top floor. The attic staircase has its own characteristics and requires a special approach.

The manufacture of a hatch for an attic staircase includes the following work:

1. Drawing development
2. Accounting and detailed analysis of the thickness of all structural elements, hatch dimensions.
3. Selection of necessary materials and tools.
4. Forming a hole where there will be a folding ladder or another option for climbing to the attic.
5. Assembly of the hatch frame and secure fixation of all elements.
6. Making a cover from the remains of a floor covering.
7. Decorative design and complex of insulation works.

As a result, you get an equipped hatch that closes easily 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 seems to be exactly that. A loft ladder that can be freely folded looks comfortable and practical, saving space without sacrificing functionality.

Self-production of this type of stairs is quite complicated and time-consuming, but with proper preparation and step-by-step execution, it is quite feasible. From the tools for making a folding attic ladder, you will need the following:

• Hacksaw
• Mounting 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 take care of the presence of an attached ladder, which will serve as the basis for work. A folding ladder can be made in just 1 day, if all materials and tools are available.

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

1. Folding ladder allows you to significantly save space.
2. The element easily develops and is extremely simple in operation.
3. Harmonious fit into any interior.
4. Fast production speed.
5. High strength and long service life.

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

Standard sizes

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

1. With a ladder 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 from personal preferences and understanding of the ease of use of the structure.

Drawing

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

The manufacturing process step by step with photo illustrations and a detailed description

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

1. Drawing development. It does not require high accuracy and correct design. 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 of a complete set of tools and materials that will be required to complete the work. Already at this stage, the drawing will help you a lot, because you will visualize how the staircase will look like, which means you can easily make a complete list of everything you need.
3. Base frame manufacturing. Based on the standard and selected size of the hatch, you form frames, carefully adjusting all corners and cleaning individual sections.

Installed frame and mounted sunroof in open position

1. The frame is installed in the working position and fastened with bolts and inserts. The opening fits perfectly.
2. After mounting the frame, the manhole cover is inserted into the body.
3. On the rails make grooves for stairs.
4. The ends of the support beams should be cut at an angle that will optimally fit the floor when the stairs are opened.
5. The sawn off and polished steps are carefully placed in the groove and secured with self-tapping screws.

Installation of steps on the bases

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

Metal loops for connecting structural elements

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

Ladder of several sections in the assembled state

See how you can make a ladder to the attic with a good example

Attic ladder mechanism with hatch - articulated without spring

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

To make a simple version of the 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 canvas, bolts for fasteners, drills, bevel, jigsaw, tees 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 cover when opening.
2. Make a draft of the mechanism out of cardboard in order to accurately calculate the size of the hinge.
3. Take metal strips and mark holes on them. This is where the hinges will be installed. 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 much.
5. The exact angle is determined using a bevel.
6. Extend the created mechanism to the set angle.
7. On a metal sheet, mark the part that will overlap when the hatch is open.
8. Use a jigsaw to cut this section.
9. The strips must have a presentable appearance, for which they are carefully cleaned and rounded. The processing of all elements is very important, because it is this that guarantees the exact correspondence of all elements and their optimal fit. Friction between parts must not be allowed.
10. To make the second part of the mechanism, we recommend using clamps. To give accuracy to the dimensions, it is enough to securely fasten the finished element and the source.
11. Also, with the help of clamps, you can achieve the exact location of the holes.
12. After the holes for the bolts are created, a bolt is placed in the finished one.
13. The blanks are twisted with two bolts and aligned in length.

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

Adjusting the structure in this area is possible and is not difficult, so be careful about this.

The hinge is easy to use and allows you to use the stairs with comfort.

Stair options

Attic stairs can have several types. The choice 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, which are connected into a single structure. This format is suitable for equipping stairs in any room. Hinges for the opening hatch can be purchased ready-made and installed as soon as possible.

Folding ladder with hinges

- a simple wooden staircase

This option is more attractive and is a certain modernization of the previous design. For manufacturing, it is enough to saw 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 mount steps in them. Be sure to accurately handle all corners and surfaces.

- folding ladder in two parts

A variant of the attic staircase, which is suitable for a small room height or a view of a simplified design.

Folding ladder

- sliding attic stairs - retractable marches to the attic

Staircase with large retractable sections that pull out and at the same time close the distance to the hatch. Requires precise fitting of elements and sufficient space.

Sliding ladder

- stairs to the attic from the street with your own hands

Attic stairs can have an unlimited number of options - below you can admire the completed projects.

Staircase from the street

Photo gallery of attic stairs

Today on the net you can find a large number of designs of stairs for the attic. Everyone can make them with their own hands, so you should not be afraid - you just need to prepare well and do it.

A ladder to the attic with your own hands is a great way to make the house more comfortable, and going to the attic is a real pleasure. The design has a small set of technical difficulties - therefore, the product is often made by hand. Basic rules for someone who decides to make an attic staircase on their own:

• Carefully draw up a drawing based on the dimensions obtained and personal wishes.
• Choose the best quality tools and materials.
• Carefully inspect all connecting elements and docking parts.
• Check the elements of the stairs more often to prevent defects and eliminate them in a timely manner.

The stairs to the attic are easy to decorate and fit perfectly into the style of any room. Comfortable handles and secure fixation form an ideal way to climb to the top, which is an excellent alternative to a standard fixed ladder.

The space between the ceiling and the roof in private houses is occupied by the attic. It is used by the owners for storage, provides an opportunity to inspect and repair the inside of the roofing pie. A folding ladder installed to get to the attic can be made by hand. Portable structures such as ladders 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 be the best model for a small space.

1. 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.
2. 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 they take up valuable space in the room. Portable models are convenient as a temporary option, but they are not suitable for permanent use due to the increased risk of injury. The best choice is a folding ladder, 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. The folding ladder is 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. A solid 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 to the attic consists of several sections, the upper part is 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 is the 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 of hard wood with a thickness of about 2 cm are used. Metal or plastic fittings are installed to connect the products, 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 a finished 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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. A bar is fixed on the wall under the attic opening, to which the folding structure is attached.
5. For secure 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 hold the exact diagonal, right-angled plywood triangles, called kerchiefs, are attached to the frame. 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 must prepare a 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.

1. Places for fastening according to the template are marked on the metal strip.
2. Holes are drilled for a bolt with a diameter of 10.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Having inserted bolts into the second mechanism, it is equalized according to the model, cutting off excess metal.
7. 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 give attractiveness, all wooden parts are 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

Currently, every developer is trying to make the most of the available area of ​​his home. However, climbing into the attic without a ladder is almost impossible. Do-it-yourself attic stairs are the best option for safely climbing to the attic.

The ladder to the attic can be located both indoors and outdoors. Of course, when the ladder is located inside, it is much more convenient to use it - you do not need to go out in the cold in winter or get wet in the rain in autumn.

There are several types of attic stairs, namely:

• folding;
• stationary;
• portable.

Stationary stairs with railings and wide flights are the most convenient, but their use is limited due to the impossibility of operation in small areas.

Portable ladders are used mainly as a temporary option and serve to access rooms that are rarely used. The main disadvantage of such a ladder is low security.

Folding attic stairs are the middle link between stationary and portable. In terms of convenience, they are almost as good as stationary ones, but they take up much less space. In terms of safety, they are significantly superior to portable designs.

The choice in favor of one or another type depends on several factors:

• the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room where the staircase will be located;
• purpose of the attic;
• possible angle of inclination.

Standard sizes

There are a number of standards that an attic staircase must comply with:

• the optimal width of the march should be about 65-110 cm;
• the height should not exceed 3.5 m. This is due not only to the fact that the rigidity of the structure is significantly reduced, but also to the fact that a fall from such a height can lead to serious injury;
• the number of steps should usually not exceed 15;
• between the steps it is customary to make a distance of about 19 cm;
• the thickness of the steps is usually 18-22 mm;
• the standard tilt angle is 60-75 degrees. A small angle requires a lot of space, and a large one is dangerous during operation;
• folding ladder must withstand 150 kg load;
• steps should be installed parallel to the floor and should not be slippery.

Manufacturing process

Making attic stairs with your own hands is not at all as difficult as it might seem at first glance. Of course, you won’t achieve such beauty as industrial models, but it’s worth a try. Do-it-yourself drawings of attic stairs that you can make can simply be found on our website.

Luke - the basis of any attic stairs

You can make a hatch with your own hands using the following materials:

• bars 50 × 50 mm;
• plywood.

The order of work is as follows:

• determine the location and size of the future hatch;

Note!
7-8 mm should be added to the overall dimensions of the hatch so that the lid closes easily and without creaking.

• cut the timber into 4 parts of the required size;
• we cut grooves at the ends of the bars;
• lubricate the grooves with glue and connect the bars, reinforce the junction with self-tapping screws;

• so that the diagonal does not go away, we fasten the scarves;
• fix plywood;
• try on the hatch in the opening;
• to close the hatch well, we will cut the latch into the lid;
• to open the hatch we will use the handle, which is inserted into the hole and presses the latch.

Necessary tools and materials

For self-manufacturing stairs to the attic with your own hands, you must have the entire list:

• wood saw;
• foam gun;
• a set of screwdrivers or a screwdriver with a set of bits;

• various self-tapping screws, anchors;
• roulette;
• card loops;
• bars 20-30 mm thick.

These are just the basic tools that you will need for self-manufacturing if you already have a ready-made wooden ladder 30 cm longer than necessary to the level of the opening.

Simple design

As an example, consider how to make an attic ladder with your own hands.

The instruction will allow you to understand the principle of work:

• on the finished one-piece staircase made of wood, we fix 2 bars in width, on the lower and upper parts. Moreover, we fasten the upper bar to the hinges, and fasten the lower one rigidly;
• sawing the ladder into 2 parts. measuring 2/3 of the length. The top part will be longer, the bottom short;
• to stiffen diagonally, we fix 2 slats;
• we connect both parts of the stairs with loops;
• with the help of anchors we fix the upper bar under the hatch;

• so that the lower part does not open, it is fixed with a hook. The loop is located on the stringer above the cut.
• the finished staircase for the attic is pressed against the wall surface and fixed.

The main disadvantage that this design of the attic stairs has is its appearance and the fact that all fasteners and bars are visible. However, even such a do-it-yourself ladder to the attic will greatly simplify the difficulties with climbing and descending from the attic.

Folding design on bowstrings

For the manufacture of the structure, several steps must be performed:

• divide the total height into 3 parts. The first part will correspond to the dimensions of the hatch, the second is slightly smaller, and the third will cover the remaining distance to the floor;

• we measure the angle of the hatch with the help of a bevel;
• we transfer the angle to the boards, thereby marking the steps;
• in place of the future hinge between the sections, we drill holes;
• we grind all edges;
• we cut the boards in those places where the hinges will be placed;
• cut and grind steps;
• under the steps we make small recesses in the bowstrings;
• we insert the steps into the recesses, putting them on glue and fastening them with self-tapping screws;
• connect the sections with special loops. To do this, be sure to place the sections on a flat surface;

we disassemble the entire system into details;

carefully sand and varnish all surfaces;

after the varnish has dried, we assemble the entire structure and use it.

Note!
Working at height is recommended with a partner.
This will not only help to avoid injury, but also greatly speed up the whole process!

The price of a ladder made by one's own hands is much lower than the price of a factory design, so if the financial issue is acute, be sure to try to do everything yourself.

Output

Purchasing a ready-made staircase to the attic is the easiest option, however, with the necessary tools and initial skills, it is not at all difficult to make it yourself. In the presented video in this article you will find additional information on this topic.