Here at Pinnacle Loft Conversions, we are loft conversion experts. While interior design principles are integral to making your new room look incredible, be it bathroom, study or bedroom, access to the loft is also essential. This means that staircase design can be as important as the room itself. However, it is often something that is considered last, after everything else. This should not be the case. As a result, we have produced this guide to loft conversions and staircase design.
Building regulations
First of all when planning your loft staircase, you need to consider the building regulations. Loft staircases are subject to their own building regulations which make sure that the staircase can be usable as well as suitable for access. The building regulations state that:
• There must be at least 1.9m of headroom at the centre of the flight
• There must be at least 1.8m of headroom at the edges
• The maximum pitch of stairs is 42 degrees
• There is no minimum width. Though less than 600mm is unlikely to prove practical
Bespoke or pre-made loft staircases
Pre-made staircases are generally cheaper and more affordable than bespoke custom built staircases. However, they will still need to be adjusted to suit the space you have. This usually means altering the pitch and the depth of the stairs. Despite these alterations, they can usually be bought off the shelf and there will be a quicker turn around, which makes them perfect for tight deadlines.
Bespoke staircases on the other hand are built to the space and can be spectacular. This means that if your loft staircase will be the focal piece in your room or home, you should opt for a bespoke option. This will need to be made to order by a skilled joiner or a professional specialist, but the end result will be worth it.
For more information or advice, get in touch with the experts today, here at Pinnacle Loft Conversions.