Loft Stairs

In many urban areas around the nation, more and more people are renovating older buildings, creating unique living spaces out of the large rooms and their classic, high ceilings.

Lofts make use of that extra space, with some even having dual levels, complete with their own set of loft stairs. If you have, or are planning on installing a set in your home, you’ll want to ensure that they’ll be able to withstand steady use, while looking as if they’ve just be installed. Here are a few simple hints for keeping this style of stairs at their absolute best.

Loft stairs, regardless of their style, should be inspected periodically to see that all of the hardware is in its proper place, and that nothing is worn or needs replacing. Once or twice a year, check all of the fittings, including the screws, nuts, and bolts to see that they’re still tight. See that all brackets are firmly in place, and that all joints appear strong. This simple process can save a lot of time, as well as money, over the life of the stairs.

Besides ensuring that the actual structure of the loft stairs itself is still sturdy, you’ll also want to inspect each of the individual steps of the staircase to see that none are warped, bent, or in need of repair or replacement.

Look at every step to check that none are sagging, or seemingly out of line with the others, and then replacing any if necessary. If in doubt, a small level will be able to tell you if there’s a piece that isn’t even with the rest of the stairs.

In addition to checking that all steps are level, you’ll also want to take note of any places that seem to be wearing thin, or smooth. This is particularly true with metal steps, or steps that have some type of runner. Wood steps that wear thin are prone to cracking and splitting, also potentially dangerous conditions.

While maintenance or at least regular inspections are a never ending process, it really isn’t hard at all to keep loft stair in top condition.

By simply checking the fittings and hardware, and making sure no parts are wearing unevenly once or twice a year, you’ll be able to take care of any small problems before they become hazardous safety issues.