Adding a loft conversion to your home can provide you with much-needed space. It can prevent you from having to move house, and it can also prevent a lot of arguments that stem from overcrowding. Whether your new space is to be used for a bedroom, a study, or a playroom, or an office, you will need stairs to a loft conversion that are practical to finish your renovation project.
The type of stairs to a loft conversion you will choose will depend on a number of factors. These include your budget as well as the space you have. In this article we will look at three different possibilities. The type you choose will also depend on who will be using the space you have created in your attic.
Wooden Stairs to a Loft Conversion
Wooden open stairs are common for an attic conversion, and generally won’t take up much space. Open wooden stairs can be set to one wall of your lounge, and the space below can even be used for furniture or for your TV cabinet or plasma screen. This type of stairs is aesthetically pleasing and affordable. As they are set against a wall, they really won’t take up much space and you will hardly notice the difference. If you have young children, then a simple stair gate can provide the safety element you require.
Spiral Stairs
If you are a romantic at heart, spiral stairs are the perfect access to your loft conversion. This type of setup can be made from wood or from wrought iron or steel. A spiral staircase however is not practical of the stairs are to be used by young children or the elderly. This type of stairs cannot have a stairlift fitted if necessary, unlike a simple set of stairs against a wall.
Spiral stairs are aesthetically pleasing, and therefore should not be hidden away. They can even become a centrepiece in your home. A spiral staircase is designed to be looked at, and is the perfect gateway to a new ensuite bedroom or master bedroom. Stairs can lead from the hallway, or for your lounge, depending on the layout of your home.
Retracting Stairs
The last option for your new stairs to a loft conversion are retracting stairs. These will stay within the loft when not in use and will come down from your attic hatch. This type of stairs is the most practical if you are short on space. But they are not practical for everyday use. Fold away stairs are great if your new attic conversion is to be used as a guest room, or a chill out area. Even for a playroom, or any other type of room that is not entered and exited multiple times each day.
The type of stairs you choose for your loft should be a consideration in the planning stages. Having a loft with enough space to be made into living space is your first necessity. Your second and equally important necessity, is having a stair design that is safe, practical, and that will fit into your home without taking away as much space as you will be adding with your conversion.