DIY attic staircase drawing. We make a folding attic ladder ourselves. DIY folding ladder

Often the exit to the attic is located in one of the living areas of the house. And when designing such an exit, many designers and architects previously had to decide which room would have to be “offended” by an ugly staircase in the corner. As a last resort, a stepladder was made and hidden in the pantry. And if necessary, the owners were faced with the task of pulling it out, carrying it to the hatch without hitting the TV on the way, putting it down and getting up.

And at the same time, it is desirable that the legs of the ladder do not move and the ladder itself does not fall until the person is in the attic. Until the modern market has offered a wonderful alternative to all these hassles in the form of a special type of hatch, behind which the staircase itself is hidden.

Why don’t you build something similar, because an attic ladder with a hatch is not such a complicated mechanism, and you can figure everything out if you want? Moreover, with our photo instructions, useful tips and video stories, you simply have no chance of failing!

Of course, you can make an attic hatch for an ordinary stepladder. But ladders are the most inconvenient way to get upstairs, and also the most unsafe. Yes, you can somehow decorate it and even use it in your home interior, but still such stairs look rude and are frankly in the way. But sometimes, when there is neither time, nor desire, nor budget to build another option, this is quite acceptable. Moreover, later such a ladder can be replaced with a more convenient one, and a durable stepladder will work in any household, you must agree!

Modern designers are convinced that it is better to install in a cold attic, of course, only a folding ladder, which can easily be hidden under a beautifully decorated hatch.

Such a staircase is really almost invisible, because a special plate is attached to its lower part, matched in color and texture to the ceiling. Look how light and graceful such stairs are in any home interior:

Do you like what you see? Then it probably became clear to you why no one hides modern attic stairs in the pantry anymore. They themselves hide behind a beautifully finished hatch, which is invisible against the background of the overall design of the ceiling. And you can easily build such cunning structures of various types yourself. Look at our photographic materials - you probably have the same parts and a couple of extra bars at home.

Basically, all “hiding” attic stairs are divided into two main types: folding and sliding. The first are blocks of three or four sections. They unfold using a special spring mechanism. Most often, such stairs are made of wood or a combination of wood and metal.

Some types of sliding stairs are scissor or telescopic stairs, which can withstand quite a lot of weight and fold like an accordion. This classification is also called differently: sectional scissor stairs. The stability of such a ladder is ensured by a special mechanism for opening the lid, which fixes the entire structure in the desired position.

In more detail, telescopic blocks are ladder structures in which the first section is attached to another. The sections move along guides, while unfolding or folding. But keep in mind that for such models the opening in the ceiling will have to be made quite wide.

Sectional stairs are primarily good because they have the opportunity to have railings and handles on both sides, thanks to which climbing the stairs will be much easier and safer. Whereas folding structures cannot be given such convenience, unfortunately.

But, if this is your first time deciding to make a hatch with a ladder, then give preference to a simpler, but no less reliable folding option:

In general, the whole structure looks something like this:

Step-by-step design instructions

The most durable and practical stairs are those that are made on a metal base with wooden steps. At home, of course, it is difficult to build something like this, but anyone can work with wood.

Step 1. Plan and design

So, first, carefully examine the schematic illustrations carefully prepared for you:

Do you have an understanding of exactly what the attic hatch opening will look like and on which side the ladder will be attached to it? Then let's move on.

Step 2. Select fastenings for the hatch and ladder

It is the strength and quality of the mechanism that determines how easily the hatch will open and how much it will withstand the loads placed on it. The simplest mechanism that exists in this regard is hinges and latches. The only difference is how exactly you position them: on the long side of the sash, or on the short side, and where the hatch itself will open - up or down.

And here, many home craftsmen resort to such tricks: they do not use simple furniture hinges, but adapt car hood hinges, and the result is a hatch cover with a spring mechanism no worse than the most expensive industrial options. Such a spring helps lift a heavy ladder with a hatch and fix it in the desired direction.

Those. Every time you go up to the attic, you will no longer need to use much effort to lift the usually massive hatch cover.

In addition, a bracket that will help fix the open hatch in a certain position will not be superfluous. This way, you will not allow the hatch to open at a greater angle than it was designed for, and the lid that flies down will not accidentally hit a person passing by on the head.

You can also use a so-called gas lift for a massive attic hatch - such devices are actively sold today for heavy doors. All this will also help to easily open and close the hatch upward, and the gas elevator simply will not allow the lid to drop quickly and sharply.

After all, there are situations when a person decided to go down from the attic using a ladder, began to close the hatch cover behind him, and it simply slammed shut under its own weight. The result is a concussion and a rapid flight down. Think about it, because this is easy to avoid.

You can also use a steel chain to secure the hatch cover, as here:

Step 3. Install the spring mechanism

It is also necessary to consider not only its component elements for a folding ladder, but also the main spring mechanism. We are talking about a device that will ensure reliable fixation of the entire staircase structure in the closed position in the attic.

But keep in mind that the stronger and heavier this fixation turns out, the more effort you will then have to put in to open the ladder and unfold it. And the greater the load will be on the mechanism itself, but it does not last forever.

Another important point: the greater the slope of the ladder itself, the greater the load will be placed on the place where it is attached to the attic floor. The smallest load will be at an installation angle of 90 degrees. But you can’t install a ladder that way, of course, so the optimal angle you can aim for is in the range of 65 to 75 degrees.

Step 4. Making an attic hatch

Now think about the design of the hatch itself. It may have one roof or two (upper and lower), additional holding mechanisms and even remote control.

Here are detailed step-by-step instructions that will be convenient for you to use:

Step 1. Take the necessary measurements and draw them on the plywood.
Step 2. Make the side walls by applying glue to the joints of the future hatch.
Step 3. Fasten all parts with screws.
Step 4. Again coat all edges with PVA and glue the bottom.
Step 5. Hammer the staples to secure them using a construction stapler.
Step 6. Make a spacer from the MDF board.
Step 7. Place the spacer in the box - this will give you an idea of where to apply the glue.
Step 8. Using screws, attach the spacer to the prepared frame.
Step 9. Draw a line on the bottom of the box and follow the markings with staples again.
Step 10: Nail the bottom to the spacer.
Step 11. Place thermal insulation on the bottom of the box.
Step 12. Place window insulation into the cracks of the frame.
Step 13. Using a stapler and screws, nail the lid to the box.

Our master classes will also help you, which wonderfully illustrate the process of making attic hatches with stairs from different materials and different designs:

Continuation:

Step 5. Install the hatch and ladder into the opening

Whether you made the hatch and attic ladder yourself, or you decided not to bother and purchased a ready-made structure, in any case, now you will have to face the same difficulties in the process of installing them.

So, if the ceiling of your attic is made of concrete, the opening for access to the roof must be made in advance - cutting it out later will be difficult. But in a wooden ceiling, the hatch should be installed between the load-bearing beams, the distance between which is at least 60 centimeters, but not more than 1 meter.

It is important that when a person ascends and descends along such a ladder, the entire load is evenly distributed between the beams, so the hatch with the ladder must be installed so that the lid opens parallel to the beams, but not across them. Like here:

Another example of installing a hatch with a ladder in a wooden ceiling:

As you can see, using wooden triangles (kerchiefs) a special niche was built in the corners of the hatch cover, into which the insulation will then be inserted.

In a separate chapter we will note the arrangement of attic hatches with stairs, which have another purpose - to be fireproof.

Let us explain in more detail. At the moment of a fire, when the exit from the house is blocked, the only option is the attic hatch. It’s enough just to climb up it and get out onto the roof, and from there you can go down either along the wall of the house or wait for help.

That is why so-called fire hatches are often installed in the attic, which help to evacuate from the house at the right time. Therefore, for this purpose, the hatch and ladder are made exclusively from metal, and only occasionally from wood treated with propylene. Naturally, the last option is less reliable.

Such designs are mandatory in office buildings, government and commercial banks, hotels and educational institutions. And also in all those rooms where fire itself is more possible and predictable. And the hatch and ladder look like this:

In terms of their design, fire escapes with an attic hatch are not very different from ordinary ones, in just a few respects:

The hinges here are mounted only on the top side, and never on the bottom.
Also, the sash should only open upward.
The box is made reinforced, corner type.

Types and groups according to fire resistance time

According to fire resistance, attic hatches are also divided into three main groups:

First group. These are the best hatches in terms of protection from open fire, toxic smoke and gases. Their insulation consists of several layers, and the structure itself can withstand an entire hour of exposure to flame without losing its most important properties.
Second group. Such structures have average fire insulation. Such a hatch can withstand fire for as long as half an hour without any special changes in its properties.
Third group. X Good protection against fire, but the safety margin is small, only about 15 minutes. For a residential building, this is the simplest and most reliable option, because this time should be just enough for all household members to climb onto the roof.

Requirements for the manufacture of a fire hatch and ladder

Such products have special requirements for the gap between the hatch cover and the attic floor: it must be minimal. And the box itself can even be made of wood, only if it itself has been previously impregnated with fire retardant compounds. But most often such stairs are made of metal with a thickness of 1-2 millimeters to 2 millimeters.

Naturally, the thinner the metal, the less it can withstand fire. Agree, if the walls are already on fire, and there is no way out of the windows or doors, then the stairs along which you can escape to the attic should certainly be intact, and not light up like a match.

And they often don’t know about such a moment. There are no special separate GOSTs for the production of such structures from stairs with a hatch. There are only recommendations and separate fire resistance tests. This includes such specific concepts as the material used to make a staircase with a hatch, the presence of a special seal that will not allow fire to spread, and heat-insulating material that does not support combustion. All this is spelled out in modern SNiPs 2.01.02-85.

And finally, we have prepared for you this nice bonus that will help you easily lift any objects up the stairs:

Many owners of private houses, in order to get into the attic, use an extension or stationary staircase installed on the street. Of course, for safety reasons, such a ladder is completely justified and will never become superfluous. However, for use in winter, and especially in cases where there is a utility or even full-fledged living space in the attic, it will be much more convenient to provide the possibility of entering directly from the house.

But it often happens that the stationary design of an internal staircase requires a very large area, and therefore cannot be implemented in practice in a small house. And even if there is enough space, it hardly makes sense to “waste” it if the attic is not used constantly, but only from time to time. What to do? But there is a way out - this is a “transformer” structure, which is removed when not needed into the attic floor. So, the topic of this publication: do-it-yourself folding staircase to the attic - most optimal option for both large and small private houses.

General information about folding stairs to the attic

What do they say about the advantages and disadvantages of such structures?

Folding ladders, if their design is thought out, are safe and easy to use, are very convenient. However, they also have their own disadvantages, which you also need to know in advance when starting similar reconstruction of one of the rooms of the house.

So to advantages of folding staircase design include the following points that will greatly facilitate the operation of the attic space:

Ability to safely enter the attic at any time, regardless of the season or current weather conditions.
The compactness and ease of use of a high-quality design allows all residents of the house to cope with unfolding and folding the stairs, since no great physical effort is expected.
The folded structure does not take up any useful space either in the living room or in the attic. If there is no need, the ladder is most often retracted into the opening of the attic floor, saving free space.
The hatch in the ceiling, which is necessary to accommodate the staircase structure, with high-quality finishing from below, does not at all spoil the appearance of the ceiling surface.
When purchasing a ready-made structure, it is quite possible to choose a model with an electric drive. This is, of course, extremely convenient, since if necessary, you won’t have to make any effort to put the ladder into working condition or remove it. However, to install this staircase option, you will have to invite a specialist. And such kits cost quite a lot.

The disadvantages of installing this structure in the attic floor include the following:

Be that as it may, folding stairs, unlike, do not always meet the criteria for maximum convenience in terms of the steepness of the climb, the number and size of steps.
Based on the first point, the second suggests itself - ascending and descending such staircase structures still requires care and special precautions. This will be especially true for children, older people or those with some physical limitations.
No matter how tightly the hatch fits into the opening cut out for the stairs, it will still deprive the ceiling of its tightness. Therefore, in order to prevent cold air from above from entering the living rooms (or, conversely, hot air during the summer heat), the attic room will have to be insulated. This, of course, leads to additional costs. True, we can look at this problem from a different angle. If it is planned to arrange a utility or residential space in the attic, then, one way or another, it is necessary to carry out thermal insulation work on the roof slopes and install flooring with

Criteria that a folding ladder must meet

In order for a ladder to be used for a long time and be safe for its owners, it must meet certain criteria, regardless of its design and material of manufacture.

Prices for folding stairs

folding ladder

These product qualities include:

The strength of the manufacturing material, all fasteners and connecting nodes.
Lightweight design in terms of weight. This is important not only for the ease of use of the ladder, but also to ensure that when folded it does not put excessive additional load on the attic floor.
Ease of operation - any adult family member should be able to handle the process of putting the ladder into combat readiness and folding it.
Hinged or other components and devices that fold the ladder should function easily, without even minimal difficulties.
If the staircase will be used constantly, due to the fact that a frequently used room is supposed to be located in the attic, then it is better to make the product yourself or order it from a good craftsman in order to be confident in its reliability, and therefore in your personal safety.

Why is it better to make the stairs yourself?

Today, the construction market offers a considerable number of models from different manufacturers. They are, as a rule, quite convenient to use, but if they are not used very intensively. If the ladder will be unfolded and folded several times a day, then a more durable mechanism will be required, since the offered products may not withstand such intensive use due to the fact that each of them is designed for a certain “motor resource”.

Finished stairs almost always have a slight slope relative to the vertical. That is, the manufacturer makes them too steep, so it’s inconvenient to climb up and down them, especially while holding a certain load in one hand and securing yourself with the other. The reasons, as you can see, are very significant, and that is why many home owners prefer not to buy ready-made kits, but to install them themselves according to their own drawings, calculating them for their own weight and equipping them with durable mechanisms.

Main types of folding stairs to the attic

Before purchasing or making a folding ladder, you need to decide on its design, since there are several of them. So, the following types of stairs have been developed and manufactured on an industrial scale and independently: retractable, folding spring, telescopic, folding with a simplified design, simple folding compact stairs.

Retractable or sliding ladder

The retractable staircase structure can consist of two or three sections, depending on the height of the attic floor.

First option

The upper section of the structure is secured using a metal flange to a transverse board that forms the frame of the opening installed in the attic floor. Each section, when folding the ladder, slides into the part located above, as if on a rail. The assembled sections of the stairs are transferred to a horizontal position and laid on the floors of the attic. The hatch in this design can be attached to the highest and shortest section, and in this case, when the hatch is closed, the entire staircase will be hidden. The hatch can also be closed separately, that is, first a ladder is sent to the attic, and then the hatch is closed.

1 - Attic floor beam.

2 - Screw flange.

3 - Retractable ladder sections.

4 - Rotary mechanism.

This illustration shows how a retractable ladder works. However, it is quite obvious that it can only be suitable if the attic is not used as a living space and is visited quite rarely, and not constantly.

Second option

Another option is a sliding ladder, consisting of two sections - a short one, attached to the hatch cover, and a long one, which, after unfolding, will rest against the surface of the floor of the room. This option is also suitable for an attic used as a utility room. So, if you need to get into the attic, the hatch opens, and the ladder goes down with it. Then, its lower part is pulled out from the folded structure until it touches the floor.

When unfolding the ladder, space for access to the attic is freed up. In ready-made, factory-made versions of sliding or folding stairs, the hatch is equipped with its own thermal insulation. And along the contour of the opening, a seal is installed so that warm air from the room does not escape through the gaps around the ceiling hatch. One should not forget about similar methods of minimizing heat losses when making a staircase yourself.

Folding ladder

A folding staircase differs from a sliding staircase in that its sections do not slide into each other, but fold together. This is ensured by special hinge mechanisms installed in the span connection points. The structure is folded according to the accordion principle. Top section fixed on the hatch panel, onhim Folding handrails are also installed, which make it easier to climb to the top floor or attic.

The advantage of this design is that it does not take up more space than the opening in the ceiling, since it is completely hidden in a special box, which frames the opening hatch. Therefore, when going up to the attic, the ladder can be raised so that it is not in the way on the lower floor, and in order to avoid accidentally stepping on the hatch while at the top, you can provide an upper strong hatch or a fencing for the opening.

Prices for stairs

ladder

The diagram above shows a finished design, one of those offered in specialized stores. However, focusing on it, it is quite possible to make a ladder yourself. How to do this will be discussed in detail in the instruction table below.

The diagram shows a box framing the opening. It is equipped with an elastic rubber gasket, thanks to which the hatch will be pressed tightly, without gaps, to the inner walls of the box.

The hatch of the design shown is made of chipboard, but when making a similar ladder yourself, it is quite possible to replace it with boards and assemble a shield from them. For this purpose, it is recommended to choose light, porous wood, such as linden or pine.

The wooden steps are equipped with an anti-slip coating. When making your own stairs, you can use a router to cut out recesses on the steps, in the form of two or three grooves running along the entire length of their surface.

The steps are fixed in the side posts of the staircase sections using a dovetail joint, which is more reliable than straight tenons.

Metal scissor ladders

Another option for a folding structure is the so-called scissor ladder, which is made of metal. As a rule, aluminum is used for this purpose due to its light weight. The design has proven itself quite well, especially for those cases where the attic has to be visited quite often.

The advantages of this type of stairs include its versatility. What this means is that the modules that form the steps can be stretched “to their fullest” if the room has a high ceiling, or compressed to a certain level, of course. The main thing is that the bottom step rests on the floor. Thus, the staircase is designed for a certain, and quite considerable, range of ceiling heights.

When folded, such a staircase is quite compact and does not extend beyond the boundaries of the box intended for it, installed in the thickness of the attic floor.

The disadvantage of this scissor design is that it requires some effort to install and fold it. This may pose a problem for some home occupants who do not have the required physical capabilities.

It is quite difficult to make such a staircase yourself, since it requires precise adjustment of metal parts, and the structure itself is replete with hinged joints. Yes, this is not profitable, since the material for self-production will probably cost no less than the cost of the finished product.

An attic is a special room under the roof of a house that can be used in different ways. Naturally, you need to somehow get to the top. For this you will need an attic ladder. Making it with your own hands is quite simple. All you need is material, tools, drawings and a little time.

Attic staircase designs

Naturally, the presented structure should be convenient and take up very little space in the house.

There are quite a few types of such structures:

- Folding. Most often it consists of 3 parts that are fastened together. They can be easily folded. That is, if not needed, such a staircase will be located in the attic and will not take up space. You can adjust the height of this structure manually. Do-it-yourself folding attic ladders are very easy to set up.

- Sliding. This product most often consists of 2 parts that are attached to the hatch. Such a staircase must be equipped with handrails. However, keep in mind that in this case you will have to think about how to install it correctly in the opening.

- Scissor. Most often they are made from metal. The operating principle of this design is simple. The stair sections fit together like scissors. In a calm state, such a staircase looks like a spring. You can also equip it with an automatic drive, which will be controlled by a remote control.

What are the requirements for the building?

If you need an attic ladder, even an amateur can construct it with his own hands. However, certain requirements must be met:

1. Particular attention should be paid to the safety of the product. That is, all fastenings must be reliable and the materials used must be durable. And the stairs should not block the passage.

2. Please note that functionality is more important than external beauty. Although this is not the last detail. For example, you should be comfortable walking up stairs. The design should be chosen taking into account all family members living in the house who will use it.

3. It is better if the stairs are equipped with railings, handrails and pads that will prevent slipping.

4. The structure must respond especially to wood.

5. Consider the load capacity of the product. The optimal figure is 260 kg.

An attic ladder (it’s quite easy to make one with your own hands) must fully meet the specified requirements. With this you will save your health, space and money.

Necessary materials

If you need an attic ladder, you should make it yourself only after you decide what you will build it from. For example, you can build it from wood or metal. In the first case, unpainted material should be used. This way you can design the staircase according to your interior in the future. Moreover, such a design is made faster and easier.

4. Metal elements should be prepared for the hinge mechanism: sheet steel, thick corner and strip.

5. Bowstrings and steps should be thoroughly sanded. Otherwise you may get hurt. Next, recesses are made in the bowstrings for inserting steps. Please note that the last elements must be positioned strictly parallel to the floor.

Features of manufacturing a metal structure

There are other types of structures represented. Do-it-yourself attic stairs made of metal are much more difficult to make than made of wood. For example, here you must strictly observe the slope of the marches within 25-45 degrees. The height of the steps should also be in the range of 60-64 cm. These are standard indicators that you should focus on.

Stringers can also be different. For example, there are stairs with a string made of sheet metal, sawtooth, with a jagged section, without brackets or with them. In principle, if you have a suitable drawing, you will quickly assemble the desired version of the staircase.

Installation of the structure

It should be noted that the manufacture of the structure is not the most difficult stage. Installing an attic ladder with your own hands must be done very accurately, so as not to redo all the work later. During installation, certain rules must be followed:

1. First of all, you don’t need to do everything yourself. You need an assistant.

2. You must have the exact dimensions of the opening to which the structure will be attached.

3. Please note that the ladder should be easy to operate. That is, you need to reach the sliding mechanism. At the same time, it must securely fix the structure in the assembled state.

4. The structure must be fastened very, very firmly so that at one point it does not fall on your head. To do this, use large bolts and metal inserts.

5. To facilitate the operation of the structure, you can equip it with automatic mechanisms that, using a remote control, will raise or lower the product.

Before screwing, test the ladder to see if all mechanisms work correctly.

In principle, you have learned all the features of manufacturing and installing an attic ladder. Naturally, all actions should be performed accurately and carefully. Provided you follow all the technology, your product will last a long time and be of very high quality. Good luck!

Almost all country houses have attics. To organize a comfortable and safe ascent there, it is necessary to equip a ladder.

It can be made of various materials, but wooden stairs are the most common and convenient. Let's look at their types in detail, and tell you how you can make a staircase to the attic with your own hands from wood.

Finished building

Structures for climbing into the attic can be permanent or removable. Their type depends on the availability of installation space, ceiling height and frequency of use.

After all, the attic is often used as a utility room, and there is no need to install a complex architectural structure. However, even among simple designs there are those that will fit harmoniously into the interior and will not take up much space.

When choosing a type, you don’t need to think about the possibility of moving large objects along it or having two people at the same time, since both of these situations are unlikely to arise.

Stationary types

All structures, according to the type of attachment to the supporting base, are divided into the following types:

On the bowstrings.

Such structures consist of two load-bearing strings, straight or curved, between which steps are located in grooves.

On the bowstrings

On the stringers.

They are a little reminiscent of bowstring systems, but the difference is that stringers serve as a support beam. The steps are attached to them from above, so that they seem to lie on supports. Usually one or two stringers are used.

On the stringers

On pain.

In this case, the steps are pinned on one side to the wall, or to a load-bearing beam mounted into the wall. This system of steps looks very stylish.

Boltsevaya

On a support pillar.

This design has found application in screw type devices. One, narrowed end of the step is fixed on a vertical load-bearing support, and if positioned correctly, all steps form a spiral flight. The big advantage of such a system is that it does not take up much space.

Screw

Combined designs.

Such structures can be made using all of the listed types of fastenings.

On a vertical support and bowstring

Stationary types are the most visually attractive, convenient and safe to use. However, it is not always possible to find suitable free space for installing capital attic systems.

Portable options

They are quite inconvenient to use for interfloor movements:

Attached. This is the simplest device for ascent and descent. It can be used as a temporary one, brought and taken away at any time. The extensions are suitable for rare visits to this room. Such a device can be left in place, but it will not add any aesthetics to the interior. In addition, the unsteadiness and instability creates problems with the safety of the person using it.

Pristavnaya

Everything that has been said about the attached type can be repeated about this type - with the only difference being that stepladders are a little more convenient and safe to use.

Most often, portable options are used when access to the attic is from the street.

Folding types

This type is very convenient and functional for small spaces that do not suffer from excessive luxury. They are compact, easy to fold and put away in the hatch. Despite the apparent primitiveness of the design, they can withstand decent loads (150-250 kg).

Manufacturers offer a large selection. They consist of 3-4 spans and are easily adjusted to any ceiling height. However, the price of these structures is quite decent.

Manufacturing

If the question arises about manufacturing, wood is the most suitable material for these purposes. There is no need to buy a ready-made design, since it is quite easy to make it yourself.

The production process of an attic ladder can be seen in the video in this article:

Production of stationary ladders on bowstrings

Capital construction with your own hands: stages of work. When making a structure, you will need bars for making a bowstring, boards for steps, a set of screws and anchors for fastening, varnish or paint for finishing.

Tools required for work:

Manufacturing instructions:

A design drawing is being prepared.
In accordance with the drawing, strings and steps are cut.
In the bowstrings, grooves are cut out according to a pre-prepared stencil to install steps to a depth of 15-20 mm. The accuracy of cutting the grooves and maintaining the geometry are the most important part of the entire process, since, otherwise, the steps will become loose and the staircase will quickly become unusable.

All parts are sanded with sandpaper.
Before assembly, the parts are treated with an antiseptic.
The grooves are coated with glue. Steps are being installed. For greater reliability, they are fixed from the outside using self-tapping screws. It is better to drown the hats and putty them.
If necessary, you can install balusters and railings.
Finishing with paints and varnishes.
The structure is attached with anchors to the supports.

The result is a simple, but reliable and safe system.

Variant on bowstrings

Production

Requirements for folding structures:

width of steps - 65-110 mm;
number of steps - no more than 15;
distance between steps is 16-20 cm;
thickness of steps - 18-22 mm;
height - no more than 3.5 m;
load capacity - at least 150 kg;
tilt angle - 60-75 degrees.

Let's look at how to make it yourself:

Important! During the production of the structure, and especially during its installation, you will definitely need an assistant.

A drawing is created.
Details are being prepared. All cut areas are thoroughly cleaned.
The hatch frame is being manufactured. The standard hatch size is 120x60 or 120x70, however, you can make it according to the existing opening.
Using bolts and metal inserts, the frame is installed in the opening.
The hatch cover can be made from 2 sheets of plywood 10 mm thick, laying polyethylene between them for vapor barrier. You can use a furniture board. We mount a handle to the lid.
The cover is hung on the frame.

On the prepared strings (on the inside), which will be used as supports, grooves are made (about 5 mm deep) for installing steps.
The ends of the support beams are sawn off so that they are firmly placed on the floor. It is best to install plastic tips.
For simplicity, you can use a structure cut into 3 fragments.
The crossbars are secured with self-tapping screws between the strings. For strength, we recommend additionally applying glue to the joints.

The parts are connected to each other using hinges.

The design is made of sections, attached to the lid with corners (as in the photo).

The valve is installed.
For more convenient door opening, we recommend installing a lever-spring mechanism.
The entire system is treated with a protective compound.

Important! Before attaching the system to the hatch, check that all components are functioning properly.

The result is a design that will provide safe access to the attic, and will not take up space in the house.

We looked at what types of wooden attic stairs there are, their types, and use cases. They gave advice on making a comfortable and functional staircase with your own hands. Now it's up to you!

A folding attic ladder is a convenient option that does not take up much space.

It is not difficult to make such a staircase on your own.

To do this, you don’t have to have special talents, you don’t need to be a professional carpenter, but you just need to have a few materials, free time and, of course, a little patience.

Which staircase is better?

The attic can be a place filled with old junk and make a great Halloween decoration.

You can equip a creative workshop or an office for work in the attic, you can equip a cozy children's room there.

But no matter how different the purposes the attic space serves, no matter how it is equipped, all attics in the world are united by one fact: it is impossible to get there without a ladder. Of course, if the owner of the attic is not a superhero.

So which ladder should you choose to climb up to the attic? Is it possible to make it yourself? The answer to the second question is simpler: anything can be done with human hands! The first question will have to be dealt with in more detail.

The type of staircase should be chosen depending on the purpose of the attic and the availability of free space below.

All types of stairs can be divided into three types:

attached;
permanent;
folding structures.

The simplest option is, of course, a ladder. This type includes both ordinary wooden poles and metal stepladders.

Advantages of an extension ladder:

light;
does not take up space;
You can use one ladder to climb in different places.

On the farm, this option is undoubtedly irreplaceable. Using a stepladder, you can change light bulbs, trim trees on your property, repair the roof, etc.

However, using it to climb into the attic is only convenient if you plan to use the attic from time to time.

This is an ideal option if old things will be stored in the attic, i.e. they will go up there a couple of times a year.

If the attic is planned to be converted into a useful, functional room that will be used frequently, then the method of climbing there must be appropriate.

A stationary staircase is an ideal option.

This option has many advantages:

stable;
reliable;
it is easy to climb along it for both a child and an elderly person;
it is easy to decorate it in the style of the room;
can be supplemented with railings;
The space under the flights can be used functionally, for example, to arrange a storage room there.

This is the only acceptable option if the attic is to be converted into a children's room. Metal spiral staircases with wrought iron railings also look very impressive.

But all the advantages of this staircase are negated by one big disadvantage - it takes up a lot of space. What should those who have space not allow for a stationary staircase do?

Do you really have to give up the idea of converting the attic space?

For those who want a reliable and safe ladder, but do not have the free space to install it, there is a third option - a folding design.

This option is slightly inferior in safety to the stationary one, but after use the ladder will be removed and will not take up space. In addition, it is easy to do it yourself, taking into account all the individual nuances.

Folding structures

There are many options for folding stairs.

The following designs belong to this type:

hanging;
retractable upstairs.

Both options are easy to make yourself. The difference is that the ladder can be folded and stored in the attic hatch or folded and hung on the wall.

The hanging option is only suitable if the hatch is located directly against the wall. In addition, a wooden structure hanging on the wall near the ceiling, even if folded, will not fit into any interior.

Therefore, the best option is a ladder that will go into the attic. Depending on the size of the hatch, it can consist of two, three or even four sections.

Taking measurements and drawing drawings is the first step in making a staircase with your own hands.

There are a number of rules that, if possible, must be followed to make the design comfortable and safe:

the width of the stairs should be no narrower than 60 cm;
when unfolded, the tilt angle must be at least 30°;
the depth of the step must be at least 10 cm so that the person climbing feels confident;
the distance between steps should not exceed 30 cm (preferably less);
if the attic hatch is higher than 2.2 meters, then it must be equipped with a leash for easy opening;
if the room height is 4 m or more, it is better to choose a stationary option, since the structure can “play” under the weight of a person, which will significantly reduce its safety.

First of all, you need to decide on the size and location of the future hatch. The longer it is, the fewer sections you will need to divide the staircase into.

For example, with a door length of 90 cm and a staircase length of 240 cm, three sections are obtained: 240: (90-10) = 3.

It is better if the hatch is made of solid wood. In this case, it will be heavier than from plywood or other materials, but the fastenings in the wood will “sit” much better.

The hatch must be secured to the ceiling using reliable door canopies with a fixed opening.

Such canopies are fixed with your own hands in the position required for opening using special pins.

When the hatch is opened further, it will open only as much as the installed studs allow.

You should not use any other fastenings (for example, window awnings).

It must be remembered that the weight of the hatch itself, the ladder and the person climbing it will fall on the canopies. Therefore, it is worth ensuring proper design reliability.

In addition, you need to install a lock and, if the height of the hatch is unattainable from human height, a leash.

The lock on the ceiling side can be used as for an interior door, equipped with an automatic latch. A latch type latch is suitable for the attic side.

A cable or lever can be used as a leash. The cable, passing through the roller device on the attic side of the door, activates the lock mechanism.

However, a cable hanging from the ceiling will not fit into every interior, so a lever is a better solution.

The lever is a plastic or metal rod (for ease of storage it can be telescopic) with a recess of the desired shape at the upper end.

This method is suitable when using a do-it-yourself mortise lock in the hatch cover, from which you need to remove the turntable.

A pinwheel is a plastic attachment on a non-removable key. It is used to make it easier to open the lock from the inside.

Under the turntable there will be a square or semicircular metal rod on which the lever should be placed.

The hole in the lever should fit as tightly as possible to the lock rod, in this case the lock will open easily.

If you have the financial means, you can install an automatic lock with a remote control on the hatch.

Making stairs

After the attic door is made, you can begin making your own stairs.

To do this you will need the following materials and tools:

two beams, equal in length to the length of the future staircase, at least 12 cm wide and 3 cm thick;
board for steps at least 10 cm wide, 2 cm thick. The total length of the board is equal to the length of the steps multiplied by their number;
corners or bolts for fastening steps (4 for each step);
fastenings for fixing the upper section of the ladder on the hatch cover;
hinges, two for the number of section connections (4 sections = 3 connections);
drill;
screwdriver;
wood hacksaw;
long metal ruler or tape measure;
protractor or malka.

After everything is prepared for work, the primary task is to mark and secure the steps.

It should be remembered that the stairs will be at an angle, and the steps must be parallel to the floor. They must be marked at an angle of 30°.

After the first step is secured, you should install the ladder and make sure that the steps are positioned correctly.

When the staircase is ready, it should be cut into the required number of sections. The cuts should be located at the same distance from the steps. The sections are fastened together using metal hinges or hinges.

When the ladder is assembled, its upper part must be tightly secured to the attic door, departing 5 cm from the top edge.

After this, you should check the load-carrying capacity of the ladder and its connections. You cannot test the ladder with your own weight by climbing on it!

To soften the harshness of the opening, you can use rubber belts or metal springs, securing one end to the bottom of the hatch cover and the other to the attic floor.

The staircase was made by hand, and not much time and effort was spent on its production.

But for greater safety and reliability, you should do something else:

lubricate all moving metal parts (hinges, hinges);
sand all wooden surfaces with emery cloth or a sander;
If desired, the structure can be painted with acrylic paint or varnished.

In this case, this structure will last a long time, will not leave splinters after climbing it, will not tear clothes and will not creak.

Such a device, made with your own hands, will become the real pride of the owner. Happy renovation!