Do-it-yourself folding staircase to the attic - manufacturing methods. DIY folding attic ladder How to make a folding attic ladder

The attic is rarely used, but the staircase leading to this room should be comfortable, compact and safe. Typically, home owners use an extension or stationary ladder installed on the street. To save space in the house, comfortable use and safe lifting, a folding system is installed.

Features and Benefits

The folding staircase in the house is designed to use the attic as needed. It is easy to use, since you can bring it into working condition can be done without much effort, and the need to free up a large area is eliminated. The main feature of this system is that the principle of its use is similar to the principle of operation of ladders. It is important to consider not only big row advantages, but also some features.

Advantages.

• Safety. The folding ladder is stable and strong. At any time, regardless weather conditions, it is possible to safely climb into the attic. Some types folding systems equipped with steps and railings.
• Compactness. Compact design system allows you to save usable area in the room and in the attic. The unfolded state of the staircase requires little space.
• Ease of use. This type of product folds quickly and without much effort. There are ready-made electric drive design models.
• Easy to install. The kit for installing a folding ladder includes simple instructions. Following it, even a person without experience will not have difficulty installing the model. The system does not require additional reinforcement of walls, floors and ceilings. The lightness of the design allows you to easily move and install the product in another place.

• Economical. The finished system is cheaper than a stationary staircase. A folding model can be made at home.
• Aesthetics. The ladder is placed on the manhole cover in ceiling surface, A high quality finish will maintain appearance. The design is completely hidden, so it does not spoil the interior.
• Folding system The attic is removed, this is convenient when there are children in the house or the room area is small. The design is visible only during use, so there is no need to match the design to the interior.

Peculiarities.

• Some types of models are not always comfortable to use according to the following criteria: steepness of the climb, size and number of steps. If the climb is too steep, it is uncomfortable to move with bulky objects in your hands.
• The presence of a hatch will compromise the tightness of the room. The attic needs to be insulated, which leads to additional expenses. In some factory design models, the hatch is equipped with a seal.
• The need for accurate calculations and skills to make your own stairs.

Varieties

The operating principle of the staircase consists of several simple actions: opening the hatch cover, pulling the folded unit towards you. All components will be fixed and motionless. If you push the bottom part up a little, the ladder will fold into itself. initial position. Finally, you need to close the hatch.

Electrically operated stairs have a simpler method of operation. To put them into working condition, you need to press the remote control button.

A staircase leading to the attic has a number of advantages: functionality, compactness and ease of use. The range of designs allows you to choose a specific type that is ideally suited to the parameters of the house. Pop-up loft installations come in different types. They differ in their design.

One of the common varieties is “accordion”. This type of product has a small size, the folding principle works like an accordion bellows. The staircase is made of light metal, since its parts are movable, so it is important to take it into account maximum load using. After a while, it is recommended to lubricate the fasteners. The “accordion” is universal in that it can be stretched to a certain size depending on the height of the ceiling.

The retractable ladder unfolds according to the telescopic principle. This product is characterized by ease of use. When folded, it is the smallest in comparison with other folding staircase systems. The structure is assembled from hollow metal (aluminum) tubes, which form sections with steps, which, when folded, fit into each other and are clamped with clamps. The model can consist of two, three or more sections.

Folding sectional staircase. It is popular among designs performed at home. The model is either folded like a book or booklet, or the sections overlap each other. Typically, the length of the first section matches the size of the manhole cover. The design is larger, but as reliable and safe as possible.

There is a staircase consisting of two sections. The first short part is fixed to the hatch, and the second - long - unfolds to the floor. This type of system is also called a transforming staircase.

The folding ladder system is the most complex. The folding staircase to the attic consists of steps attached to a string. The staircase is as large in size and reliable as possible. It is most comfortable to use, since the angle of inclination is no more than 45 degrees. To create it yourself you need equipment and skills.

It is important to pay attention to preparing the room with the hatch. The area potentially occupied by the stairs is vacated. For safety, install a fence around the hatch in the attic or frame the folded model with a box.

Materials

The choice of material depends on the folding technology. Stairs can be made of metal (aluminium, stainless steel), tree or combination.

Wooden folding attic ladder eco-friendly and has an attractive appearance. It will look good in a house where the interior is made to look like wood. Positive qualities of the installation are good tolerability temperature changes and exposure to moisture. TO negative qualities The product may be a fire hazard; insects can also live in the wood.

The folding version of the ladder is made of solid wood. The parts are connected using a special technology. At the edges of the steps there are protrusions that are inserted into the gaps of the guides, the connection is fixed with glue. For the manufacture of spans, timber from solid wood is chosen coniferous species, beech or ash, for steps - oak. The load capacity of the wooden folding unit is about 100 kilograms.

The metal folding ladder to the attic is made of metal that does not corrode. For the manufacture of complex design choose aluminum or steel. The main advantage of the aluminum system is its ease of construction, it is so light and durable metal will last long years. Steel products are offered with a corrosion-resistant coating. The load-bearing capacity of the metal structure is 200 kilograms, this figure is much greater than that of a wooden staircase.

The disadvantages of a metal folding ladder include the difficulty of making it at home. To create it you need to have special skills, experience with welding and equipment.

Strength and lightness are the main characteristics of a folding staircase to the attic. The best option remains combined staircase. This design consists of wooden steps and metal supports. This type of system is budget-friendly and reliable. Some models use rubber pads on the steps to reduce slipping.

How to determine the sizes?

To make the use of the stairs comfortable, it is necessary to determine the main dimensions of the structure and make calculations. It is important to take into account the parameters of the room in which the entrance to the attic will be located: the height of the ceilings, the area where the stairs will be laid out, the slope of the stairs. Usually a model consisting of 3 or 4 sections is installed for ceilings with a height of 3 meters.

Basic dimensions to be determined.

• Ceiling height and staircase length. The higher the ceiling height, the more reliable and durable the structure should be. When measuring the height of the ceilings, the length, type of folding system and the number of sections are determined. At a height of 3.5 meters, it is recommended to install stationary option stairs.

• Opening and width of the stairs. The opening size can be from 0.5-0.6 by 0.7-0.8 meters. The optimal size is 0.8 by 1.20 m. The width of the step depends on the width of the hatch. It will be comfortable to climb stairs 60-70 cm wide.
• Slope. A safe and comfortable slope angle is 30-55 degrees.
• Pitch, number and width of steps. Average step and step characteristics that will be safe and easy to use: 15-17 steps 20 cm wide and 2 cm thick, step 18-23 cm.

After determining all of the above parameters, you can begin to select folding stairs. The safety and reliability of the product is characterized not only by the material and correctly calculated parameters, but also by the competent installation of the system.

Installation

For safety reasons, please note the following restrictions:

• do not use the product for plasterboard floors;
• do not disassemble the constituent elements of the structure during installation;
• do not loosen the fastenings connecting the ladder and the hatch;
• Do not use the folding ladder until the work is completed.

Home installation finished system folding staircase starts in the attic, for this purpose the kit is lifted into the attic. First, the structure is placed with the hatch closed, then the ladder is attached to the open hatch cover in the unfolded state. The system must rest against the floor and be stationary at the time of installation. When the “rough” installation has been carried out, it is necessary to check how the system works: open the hatch cover from the room several times, disassemble and reassemble the ladder. If no problems are found with the operation of the installation, then installation continues.

Before starting work, you must carefully read the attached instructions and check the design for serviceability.

First, you need to place a box on the base of the opening and attach it with screws; the gap between the box and the opening is filled with foam. Then the upper section is installed. Unfold the ladder and make sure it is stable and forms a straight line. Can be corrected by trimming the legs last section. Both sides of the structure must fit tightly to the surfaces.

IN ready set There is a fence for the hatch on the attic side. It consists of racks and crossbars. To create a more reliable and rigid structure, the racks are secured with metal struts. They connect the vertical bars to the floor.

Check the hatch for leaks. The lid should fit tightly into the opening. If the seal is poor, heat will escape from the room. Then it is carried out redecorating the bottom side of the hatch cover. When installation is completed, a control check can be carried out.

Equipping with modern designs and functions of a folding staircase can be varied. This includes handrails, protective covers, electronic system and remote control. The most simple option is design foldable wooden system. Wood is the most available material, which is easy to operate.

Before completing the work, a drawing of the designed staircase is created. The height from the floor to the place where the hatch is located is measured and calculations are made. The easiest way is to create a sectional staircase that opens up like a book.

A folding ladder to the attic is a type of compact auxiliary devices for climbing to utility rooms country house. Quite often the stationary design of staircases for attic floors It looks simply irrational - you don’t have to use it often, or it takes up a lot of living space, which, as always, is sorely lacking.

Many people are familiar with these circumstances. Previously, they arose when it was necessary to climb into the attic, where, according to established traditions, old things were stored that were no longer needed, but it was a pity to throw them away. Of course, you can use a regular stepladder to go up and down, but for greater convenience and safety there is another solution - a folding ladder to the attic.

Significantly saves living space at home. It is located in a specially equipped ceiling opening of the interfloor ceiling.

A folding attic ladder is functional, compact and very easy to use, and the variety of models and available options for this design allows you to choose exactly the type that is ideal for the specific operating conditions of any country house.

Among the variety of folding attic systems, three main configurations are most in demand:

• lever;
• claw-shaped;
• telescopic.

Lever designs

Lever or three-knee systems consist of three folding parts. The first part (elbow) is attached to the hatch cover, and the next two, using springs and a special mechanism, are sequentially stacked on top of each other.

In order to install the ladder, you need to use a long rod with a hook to hook the ring installed on the outside of the hatch and pull it down. After the hatch opens, the structure itself, under the influence of its own weight, will unfold into the desired position.

For ease of disassembly and assembly, the system is equipped with special lever mechanisms that help the mobile flight to smoothly unfold and fold into the stairwell. The hatch cover is equipped with latches, which are designed to secure the entire device in the interfloor ceiling.

Claw stairs

The claw-shaped design of the march received its name from the shape of its elements. This type of device folds like an accordion, and they are also called pantograph ladders. The basis of such systems is a multi-link hinge mechanism, which is adjusted by springs.

When the hatch is open, the device stretches down and is fixed to the floor using a special spring stop. When the mechanism is removed from the stop, the structure is assembled to its original position under the action of springs.

Telescopic devices

Telescopic system, taking into account operational properties, is made only from lightweight aluminum profile.

Therefore, attic metal folding ladders with a telescopic system are separate sections made from profile aluminum pipe, which are sequentially inserted into each other.

• The entire structure is mounted in the manhole cover, and, if necessary, easily extends into the working position.
• Stability is provided by clamps located at the junctions of sections.
• Number of parts may vary, depending on the required height and model of the selected device.
• In order to safe operation the mechanism is designed in such a way that it eliminates arbitrary axial displacement of sections.
• Special latches firmly fix the structure in the folded position.
• To unfold the ladder, simply pull for the special rod (rod) provided for these purposes.

How to choose a folding ladder

Before choosing and purchasing an attic ladder, you need to learn a few rules:

1. The design should be selected taking into account the prepared opening in the interfloor ceiling. And for this you need to know optimal sizes for this type of stairs.
2. The minimum recommended opening size is 500–600 mm, but according to the experience of some manufacturers, 0.6–1.20 m is better. You can consult the seller about what sizes are currently on sale and adjust your opening according to the selected template.
3. The second necessary parameter is the height and angle of inclination (“reach”) of the device in working condition. To do this, you need to know how often the stairs will be used, and its future location (length of the room, furniture, etc.). The most acceptable and convenient to use design is considered to be a design with a height of 2.80–3.5 m.

Tips: If the room height is more than 3.5 m, for safety reasons it is not recommended to install a folding attic ladder. In this case, you need to think about installing stationary stairs economy class, having a larger angle of inclination and equipped with railings.

As is customary, attic systems They are sold with ready-made sizes, so you need to provide for a situation where the required size may not be available. In this case, as mentioned above, it is necessary to prepare an opening to the finished dimensions, or order right size individually. IN latest version the price of the structure will be higher.

Metal folding stairs are best suited for outbuildings, and for a country house, a wooden structure is most appropriate, which, with certain finishing, can become an interior decoration (see video in this article).

Attic systems are unpretentious in operation, and if you have the necessary tools and instructions for assembling a specific architecture, you can easily install them yourself.

Assembling a folding wooden ladder

Before assembly finished design, you need to familiarize yourself with some basic safety rules:

• The use of these structures for plasterboard floors is not recommended;
• disassembly of the component elements of the mechanism during installation is prohibited;
• Do not unscrew or adjust the fastenings to the hatch;
• Test operation of the device is prohibited until all elements are installed.

Do-it-yourself folding stairs to the attic - instructions:

1. The installation of the attic system is carried out by two people. First, with everything necessary tool and with strong twine, rises to the second floor, and the second remains below.
2. We check the dimensions of the opening, which should be 2 cm larger than the box.

1. To support the kit, tie two safety bars to the box during installation. Moreover, the initial lower level of the box should be slightly lower than the ceiling level (see photo).
2. Then, using prepared wooden wedges, align the level of the ceiling and the mechanism box.

1. Open the ladder and check the serviceability of all elements.
2. After this, lift the device to its original position and begin installing the box.
3. Before starting installation, check that the lengths of the diagonals between the opposite corners of the box match.

1. In the gap between the structure and interfloor ceiling, in the places where the screws are installed, insert the strips to fit the box tightly to the opening.
2. Screw the frame to the base of the opening with screws (8x80).
3. The gap between the box and the opening must be filled with foam.
4. Open the device and check the correct operation of all mechanisms, and adjust them if necessary.

1. The unfolded structure should form a straight line, and Bottom part the bowstring should fit snugly to the floor.

A folding attic ladder can have the most various designs and improvements. It can be equipped with dust covers, railings, electric motors and a remote control remote control, which activates the automatic unfolding and folding mechanism of the system. Therefore, depending on the design chosen, the price of such improvements can vary widely.

Attic stairs - so convenient and practical

Types of opening retractable flights

Telescopic ladder - a plus for the convenience of using the attic

When installing retractable stairs you have to choose between several types:

• Scissor model. The peculiarity of opening and assembly is the folding and extension of the structure in the form of an accordion. The transformation mechanism has the shape of a parallelogram or oval. After ordering the product (prices from 3,000 rubles), after a while the structure will need to be lubricated to avoid squeaks.
• Telescopic device. The product includes many retractable sections that fold into one another. Belongs to the category of less-sold mid-sized buildings price segment.
• Folding type of installation - sectional and hinged. The composition includes 2-4 sections. The first elbow has a length corresponding to the size of the hatch cover and is attached to it. Other elements open to create a level flight of stairs. Sectional structures movable thanks to the installation of hinges and hinges. They are found at different prices: from 3 to 20 thousand rubles.
• Folding model. Most of the time the structure is folded and mounted on the wall. It is pulled out as needed to go up to the attic. The steps are fixed on a string using card loops. By studying the prices for a given product item, you can choose a completely acceptable solution.

Main settings

The installation of a mobile structure (both cheap and expensive) is designed to ensure the ability to use the attic as needed. It has small dimensions and a load level, which eliminates the possibility of moving furniture and large objects.

Dimensions of buildings:

• Standard width steps varies between 400-600 mm.
• The height limit reaches up to 3.5 m. Calculation of installations is made by adding 30 cm to the height of the ceilings.
• The number of steps is 14 - 15.
• The step between the crossbars is 20 - 30 cm.
• Tilt angle 60 - 75 degrees.
• Maximum level loads 150 - 250 kg.
• Hatch sizes 70 - 120. Smaller parameters are inconvenient to use. With increasing size, slightly greater heat loss is possible.
• The depth of the steps varies from 5 to 18 cm.

Brands and prices of folding staircases

Attic folding stairs can also be made of wood - it looks very chic

The development of attic folding systems is usually carried out by manufacturers skylights. That’s why you often see the names on dealers’ websites attic devices from famous leaders: Atrium, Dolle, FAKRO, Roto, Velta, Oman. Prices are calculated taking into account material and technical equipment. On average, prices for high-quality products are in the range of 3,000 - 10,000 thousand rubles.

Complete set of mobile attic steps

The device includes a box for placement in a designated opening. Its fastening is ensured by self-tapping screws. Geometric dimensions easy to adjust using an engineering angle. Maintaining strict perpendicularity affects the further functionality of the device. To protect against heat loss, rubber or rubber seals (EPDM) are placed in the inside of the box.

The presence of special loops facilitates the hanging of sections with a spring mechanism. They are mounted inside. A manhole cover is attached to the installation box from the outside. Her connection with ladder installation is mandatory because the hatch allows you to hide the folded steps. When closed, the lid remains invisible on the ceiling ground floor. Insulation with a layer of 36 - 76 mm serves to increase thermal insulation.

To activate the system, just pull the ring and the span will lower to your feet. Correct adjustment spring mechanism will ensure smooth opening and assembly of the product. Installing a latch lock and pole is necessary to increase the level of convenience.

The package may include handrails with plastic clasp latches. Additional sections are sold separately. Ready installations Often it is necessary to trim with the installation of anti-slip attachments. Scissor ladders allow you to remove a specified number of links.

Installation of folding flights for the attic

When purchasing folding structures, it is important to pay attention to the price and standard sizes provided. Typically, the manufacturer specifies the size between the floors and the slope range.

For example, if the gap between the floors is 2800 mm, then the hatch parameters vary within the range 600/680*930/940 mm, 600*1200 mm, 700*1200mm. Ceiling height 3050 mm is designed for openings 600*1300 mm, 700*1300 mm. When the wall height is 3250 mm, the option 700*1300 mm is considered.

Structurally, the products are presented in 3-4 folding sections, equipped with a special mechanism in the form of hinges.

Attention! Using corner hinges and a stencil, the height of the structure is adjusted.

Selection of material for telescopic attic spans

Opening technology determines the choice of materials: metal (steel, aluminum, stainless steel), wood or combinations. The folding version is created from solid wood and metal. The first option is characterized by connecting parts using dovetail technology.

There are technological projections at the edges of the steps. They are placed in the gaps made in the guides. To give strength to the connection, the shrinkage of the structure is fixed with glue. The spans are created from solid or glued beams solid coniferous trees, ash and beech (model A100, Atrium). Durable steps are carved from oak wood.
Among the leading brands we can distinguish products of different price category:

1. Dolie.
2. FAKRO.
3. Oman.
4. Roto.
5. Velta.
6. Holzplast.

Picking up metal types products, you can opt for aluminum and steel options. Steel structures are represented on the international market with powder coated, resisting corrosion. Advantageous solution easy to select from the FAKRO, Oman, Roto product line. Combinations of steel and wooden installations. They are presented in the Oman assortment.

When choosing an accordion (pantograph, telescopic, scissor or spring model), the main material for the structure is anodized steel. The steps are treated with powder paint. Their coating is formed by anti-slip notches. New product releases with pneumatic-electric drive and remote control(Fakro, Roto).

Purchasing slide flights with sections placed one inside the other ensures telescopic extension of sections made of metal or in combinations. The latter type consists of wooden steps and metal supports.

Choosing a place to install attic steps

If you need to buy a budget staircase with an uninsulated roof, you can pay attention to the hatch thickness of 16 mm. Its box usually does not have a seal. This option is considered successful for purchasing when equipping unheated country houses and outbuildings.

A folding ladder to the attic is convenient!

The Dolle product range is represented by the popular Basic line of wood products. The composition includes 3 sections designed for a height of 2850 mm. The opening has dimensions of 60.7*120 cm. Increased safety can be ensured by ordering auxiliary handrails.

Advice: if installation is intended in residential premises, the right choice will become wooden structures, in technical buildings it is good to install more practical ones - metal steps.

Improved staircase designs for the attic

To expand the efficiency indicators of folding spans, manufacturers have developed special offers:

• The Velta catalog allows you to select an inexpensive item from the Compact catalog. It looks like 4 sectional installation with an insulated hatch. Among the main ones is a small-sized opening of 600 * 925 mm, the projection of the span onto the floor is no more than 1260 mm.
• Roto attracts site visitors with its Mini aluminum scissor solution. The steps are only 8 cm wide. The insulated hatch is characterized by a heat transfer resistance coefficient of 1.25 m2 C/W. Acquisition small model ensures ease of equipping ceilings forming a height of 2250-2500 mm (calculation for 10 steps). Removal within 1180-1250 mm.
• The need for a compact structure can be satisfied on the Oman catalog page - the Mini staircase includes 4 sections with a box of 600 * 800 mm and 700 * 800 mm. The height of the premises will be 2650 mm, the projection will be 1000 mm.
• No less attractive is the small-sized LWK staircase (opening 600*940 mm), produced by FAKR0! A scissor installation (600*900 mm or 700*800 mm) will compete with it. The production of the series is regulated by European standards EN 14975.

Attic ladder installations with additional options

For those who are accustomed to seeing convenience in everything and do not seek compromises in choosing price and quality, fundamentally new designs have been developed, thought out to the smallest detail.
Exclusive developments are the property of manufacturing companies.

The “Prestige” series (Velta, cost about 12 thousand rubles) is a shining example using ClickFix technology. Its peculiarity lies in the possibility of assembly and installation without additional equipment.

Among the tools you will need is a screwdriver and a saw if you need to cut the legs. The hatch is insulated and forms a layer of 7.6 cm, and to prevent the entry of cold air and moisture, 2 seals are used. The opening has parameters of 600*1200 mm. The ceiling is characterized by a height of 2740 mm, the projection onto the floor is 1180 mm. The march is controlled remotely.

Roto will surprise and delight sophisticated users with the Elektro scissor system. The package is equipped with a silent electric drive with a capacity of 24 W and an emergency power supply provided for the operation of the product in the absence of power. The steps are made of aluminum and are designed for a load limit of up to 200 kg. The construction of 9 steps will be an uncompromising solution for floors with a height of 2200-2500 mm. The greatest offset reaches up to 1400 -1250 mm.

Installation of folding steps (using FAKRO as an example)

Among the tools you will need is a screwdriver, screwdrivers (flat and Phillips) and an open-end wrench 10. The process consists of several stages:

1. The frame for the outer frame is installed.
2. By internal corners(from the attic side) there are metal corners on the frame for fixing. They are adapted for temporary hanging of the product. Nuts are mounted in them, and threaded pins are screwed into the nuts.
3. The frame is placed in the hatch and back stops (pipes with gaps) are placed on the pins.
4. Using screw rods, the frame is leveled in all directions.
5. Using a rigid lining (to prevent deformation), the frame is fixed to the slope using self-tapping screws or dowels from two adjacent sides.
6. The diagonals are checked for equality. The screws should not be tightly clamped.

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

Types of attic stairs - design and types of construction

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

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

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

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

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

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

Folding transformable ladder

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

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

Also used plastic fittings, preventing friction of components during transformation and sealing the opening when the product is folded. The hatch cover is filled with polystyrene foam and provides good thermal insulation.

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

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

Standard sizes of attic stairs:

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

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

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

Sliding attic ladder - retractable flights to the attic

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

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

Telescopic ladders

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

Folding staircase to the attic - sectional and hinged

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

Reclining ladder

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

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

DIY attic folding stairs

Option No. 1 - simple design of 2 sections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Materials you will need:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is how we make all the parts.

The output should be two completely identical mechanisms.

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

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

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

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

Do-it-yourself wooden staircase on bowstrings

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

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

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

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

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

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

The drawings of the attic staircase are not particularly complex. But a number of features for calculation and design should be taken into account. Then the resulting design will meet the basic requirements for safety and ease of movement between levels.

Name of elements of folding stairs to the attic

Before choosing a ladder, you should pay attention to a number of important points:

All these points will help you quickly navigate the choice of design type. There are the following classifications of attic stairs:

More common aluminum structures. Metal and wood can be combined.

Technical requirements. Data and formulas for calculation

Attic stairs must meet the following characteristics:

The stairs to the attic are easy to make. You should start with calculations of parameters and a drawing. To draw up a diagram not “by eye”, you will need the following data:

Schemes of folding stairs

Such designs do not require more space for arrangement; they can be organically integrated into the interior or hidden in the attic. The suggested options will help you arrange your home ergonomically.

Drawing No. 1

This type is a device of two folding sections.

This option is suitable for attic openings located near the wall.

When developing a drawing, take into account the following points:

This staircase is not particularly aesthetically pleasing, but when assembled it takes up virtually no space.

Drawing No. 2

This option, like the first, is attached to the wall, but through one bowstring. The requirements for it are slightly different:

This staircase is a little more complicated than the previous version. But it gained great popularity next type devices.

Drawing No. 3

This type of design is retracted into the hatch when folding and closing. Most convenient option, since it does not take up space in the residential part of the house. If the width for the previous design could be arbitrary, then for this type of staircase this parameter is related to the dimensions of the opening.

A do-it-yourself attic ladder, the drawings of which are presented, is easy to make. Some craftsmen even make hinge mechanisms for the hatch themselves.