Folding stairs are intended to provide access to an attic. When you need to get into the attic, you pull down the stairs; when you're done with them, they fold back up into the attic.
Sold as kits at building-supply outlets, folding stairs are designed to be installed into the ceiling quickly. They must be located where there is sufficient room to swing the ladder open, and you must have enough floor space around the bottom to allow safe access on and off the ladder.
Check the dimensions required for installing the folding stairs before you buy them. Follow any local building codes relating to folding attic stairs. The instructions below are typical of folding-staircase designs but make sure to follow the manufacturer's specific recommendations. When done, add trim around opening to finish it.
PROJECT BASICS
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Project: Difficult
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Estimated Project Time: Several hours
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Start Tips: You will need a helper to assist you, especially when handling the staircase unit.
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Safety Tips: If there is no floor in the attic, lay sheets of plywood across the joists, spanning the work area.
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Recommendation: Do-it-Yourself
TOOLS & MATERIALS
Folding staircase kit and installation hardware |
Measuring tape |
| Stepladder |
2x lumber (for framing and nailer ) |
| Reciprocating saw |
Metal framing hangers and connectors |
| Power drill/driver and bits |
Nails |
| Saw |
Lag screws |
| Hammer |
Shims |
| Socket wrench |
Trim molding and finishing supplies |
| Framing square |
1) Mark the opening for the stairs
Most often, the stairs will be installed so that they run parallel with the ceiling joists. Mark and cut out the drywall ceiling where the stairs will be located. You need to brace a center joist at both ends, and cut out a section.
2) Install headers
At each end of the opening install half of a double header. Nail up the end of your cut joist, and then add the second board of the header.
3) Double up the joists
Although some stair manufacturers do not call for the detail, it's wise to double up full joists on each side of the opening. Use clamps to hold them together while joining them using a power drill/driver and screws.
4) Finish framing the opening
To finish framing the opening for the stairs, add a short joist between headers to box in the stair opening. Use metal framing hangers.
5) Add supporting wood lip
To support the stair assembly in the new opening while you attach it, screw a supporting wood lip to both sides.
6) Install stair frame
Following the manufacturer's directions that came with the stair kit, bolt the stair frame onto the opening. You may need to use wooden shims.
7) Measure the steps
Measure from the fold-down hinge to the floor in a straight line, first on top of a leg and then on the bottom. Repeat this process on the other leg.
8) Trim excess
Transfer the measurements from Step 7 to the extended legs, draw a line between them, and then cut off the excess portions.
