Often, even in a big house there is not enough space to accommodate everything you need. And often the owners ask themselves what rules should be followed when choosing stairs to the attic?
Folding stairs
If there is not enough space to install a standard design, use folding analogues. Folding stairs to the attic have long been invented, which will fit even in the most compact rooms. Such a ladder, as a rule, descends from the ceiling at the moment when it is necessary to climb into the attic. In the normal state, the folded staircase is hidden by an accordion under the manhole cover, without taking up much space. Other types of inset ladders are cleaned according to the principle of a telescopic antenna. Installation of a folding ladder is carried out in the following order: first, the ladder itself is attached, and then it begins to be mounted in the opening. After completion of work, the height of the structure can be adjusted to the height of the room. To install a folding ladder in the attic, it is necessary that the staircase fully meets the requirements of the manufacturer. Therefore, in order not to put yourself in this tight framework, sometimes the most correct way out of the situation is a ladder to the attic with your own hands.
Sliding structures
A retractable staircase to the attic is not an easy choice. First you need to evaluate whether it will be convenient to use it in your home. It is necessary to decide on the choice of space, since they require a certain area. Sliding stairs fold out at a certain angle, which does not always make them safe.
Most popular attic options
- Accordion or scissor ladders have become widely used due to the convenient folding mechanism.
- Folding (lever) stairs consist of several sections, each of which is laid out like a folding meter.
Material for making
Most often, stairs to the attic are made of wood. But sometimes natural material can skillfully be combined with metal parts: the guides are made of metal, and the steps are made of wood. Such designs are more optimal, since they combine weight and strength well. If the steps are made of metal, they probably have a corrugated surface for safety reasons. Nevertheless, the installation site and the intensity of its use have a significant influence on the choice of material.
Model selection
Before you start choosing the stairs to the attic, measure the height of the room from the ceiling to the floor. Also think about the size of the opening, because not every model can be mounted in any room. If possible, it is better to choose a large model. But the larger the structure, the larger the hatch will be required to access the attic. And if the hatch is too large, it will cause heat loss. Some manufacturers offer models complete with insulated manhole covers. If you install such a cover, you can provide additional tightness and limit heat loss, and to some extent you will protect it from rapid dusting when folded.