Every loft conversion needs a set of stairs. What you may not realise however is that there are plenty of different way you can design your loft stairs. The best solution to fitting stairs to loft conversions is of course to allow the experts to do it for you. But that still leaves you with some decision making. You need to get it right, but you also need to ensure your stairs are aesthetically appealing and fit in with the style of your home. If you don’t add a good set of stairs, then the extra room in your home won’t add any value onto your property. So, to benefit fully from your loft conversion, read on.
Fitting Stairs to Loft Conversions : A Job for the Professionals
Unless you are extremely handy at DIY, you will have used the services of a professional building team to convert your attic space. The same should always be the case for fitting your stairs. An architect can draw up plans for your loft stairs. From a modest set of stairs going up the side of the wall to a spiral staircase, there are many different designs to choose from. As well as choose the type of staircase you want you will need to decide on the material for your stairs, the handrail, and the steepness of your stairs.
If you have children then steep stairs are impractical, as are spiral staircases. Depending on the style of your loft conversion you will also need to decide on a banister design for at the top of your stairs.
Fitting Stairs to Loft Conversions : Lighting
Depending on where your stairs are, they may need to be lit. A spiral staircase will generally not need extra lighting, but other staircases will. You will also need to consider adding light switches, at the top and the bottom of your stairs.
Fitting Stairs to Loft Conversions : Safety Issues
If you have young children, then you will need a stair gate at the bottom of your stairs to stop your youngster from climbing alone and falling. If however your loft conversion is for older children as is to be used as their playroom you will need to consider a safety banister at the top of the stairs.
If your loft conversion is to become a study or a private area where you want to be able to relax, an extra door at the top or the bottom of the stairs will help separate your loft from the rest of your house.
Choosing the stairs for your loft is not something you should leave till last. With the help of your local loft conversion experts you can plan your loft conversion from start to finish. This will ensure you will not go over budget and that your plans include your stairs, banister, stair gates, and any paint or varnish that will be used to finish off your stairs once they are in place.