Source/plans for wide attic-type stairs
Hello,
I’m finishing up a detached garage with a large loft space above it. Because I don’t want the hassle of applying for a CO, I’m not installing a permanent staircase, though I have a 38″ wide opening to do so (This building may be a future in-law suite, so I’m planning ahead). Instead, I’m looking for a wide set of attic-style stairs that will allow me to get large items to the loft. I’ve found some that might fit the bill at http://www.bessler.com/mod100.htm, but they are quite expensive (almost $1000 once you figure shipping). Any other sources or suggestions? Is it possible to modify a standard, but heavy duty set of attic stairs to allow the opening to be nice an wide to fit large objects? I don’t need the stairs to be insulated or sealed as you would a traditional attic stair.
Alternatively I could build my own, but need a source for key parts and a plan.
Any other alternatives would be greatly appreciated. I have considered just building stairs once my inspections are done, but I kind of like the idea of having the stair out of the way when not in use, as the loft area will be storage only for the next several years.
Thanks in advance!
Andy
Replies
Alternatively I could build my own, but need a source for key parts and a plan.
I made some nice hickory ones with the treads (French) dovetailed into the stringers for our old place in Denver. Hinged to the ceiling and too heavy for my wife to raise or lower without counter-balancing. I understand subsequent owners have delighted in them. My only "plan" was to go with the longest run I had room for. Key parts? Lumber yard and the hardware store.
PAHS Designer/Builder- Bury it!
Andy, I took the original attic stair hardware off after making a sketch how it was installed. I built a new set with 36" x 5/4" treads of yellow pine. The stringers are 5/4" x 6" and rabbeted 3/8" deep for treads. I ran allthread underneath like the original. Stairs work fine but do not go up as high as smaller set. This is because the springs do not have enough power.Sticks down below ceiling 2" on one end. These stairs are for a loft in my shop so I never bothered getting a heavier spring.
You may be able to buy heavy duty hardware and springs for building your own. Try a search for attic stair hardware.
mike
I built a set from steel tubing with wood treads.
Think I used 1"x2 or 2 1/2" .120 wall rectangular tube each side. Welded a piece of 1/2" square to the top or outer side, and a matching piece of tube to the inner side to put the step on.
Set the tablesaw at 45º and cut v-shaped dados in the bottom side of pieces of 2x8 for the steps.
The top of it was drilled and a piece of 1/2 rod went through the stairs from side to side and out into the joists.
I had a rope and pulley setup to raise it, no counterweight. The guy who owned the house did not want it too easy to operate, and it wasn't.
I think it could have easily been counterweighted though.
Worked great, I know the house was sold and the new owners were amazed by it. -- NOT code, NOT OSHA, not nothing legal but worked slick.