Alternative Loft Access

Fixed Ladders

In the unlikely event that you are contemplating using a ladder to access your loft conversion, and that the building regulationsare satisfied, the ladder must be permanently fixed in place, i.e., it cannot be drawn up, and must have handrails on both sides.

I feel that it is important at this point just to reinforce the fact that a loft ladder, of any kind, cannot be used if you are planning to use the roof space for anything other than as a loft storage solution.

If you are looking to convert your loft and make it into an habitable room of any sort, then it must be reached by a permanent staircase.

This applies whether you plan to use the loft as a living room, a playroom or are thinking of creating a loft conversion office.

Alternating Tread Staircase

Like a ladder, probably not something you will want to consider.

They are stepper than traditional flights of stairs and can only usually be used where there are severe space restrictions.

If considering this style of staircase then pay extra attention to the building regulations and discuss their use in your plans fully with the councils building control service before submitting your building regulations application.

This type of stair is very unsafe, only my opinion of course, but certainly not something to be considered if children are likely to be around.

This type of ‘cut-off stairs’ can only be used if the staircase is straight and the councils building control officers agree that there is insufficient room to install a traditional staircase.

For more info see the related pages below or complete the form at the bottom of the page for a free no obligation quote from tradesmen near you...

Loft Stairs

Loft Conversion Guide

Rafter And Purlin Roofs

Beams For Loft Conversions

Hip To Gable Loft Conversions

Loft Design

Loft Access And Loft Hatches

Loft Conversion