The contents
One of the most unusual solutions to the problem area and moving between floors in private homes is to build a ladder goose step. The design feature of the manufacture of such ladders is a configuration of steps, but rather in their placement. Goose step is often done at an angle of 45º, but you can find options that rise under 70º. In solving the housing problem should be avoided «goose step» as a primary ladder because of a certain inconvenience in use.
For completeness of perception suggest to see this video:
Universal is the possibility of selecting the material from which is made a goose step. So, due to the ease of handling keeps the lead performance from wood. For aesthetic beauty can be applied to metal or glass. Design goose step consists of the following parts:
- bearing elements;
- additional screed;
- mounting and stage;
- balusters;
- railings.
Calculations of the stairs «Goose step» ↑
If you read the reviews, you will see that not all unambiguous in their assessment. The main points on which they have claims is their insecurity operation and the inconvenience when carrying bulky items. But with proper planning the negative aspects of the goose step can be easily reduced to zero. I propose to look closely at this drawing:
Starting the calculation, remember that some values are constant (for example, the distance from floor to ceiling) and there would be no change. Based on constant values, it should be remembered that it depends on the height of the goose-step and number of steps, that it would be. Also looking at the General scheme above, you can see that a ladder should be much less material than in the other structures. Focusing on the most popular options distance from ceiling to floor, was a table:
Based on these data we can say how much it will take steps goose step, depending on the height of the rooms. You can find and his variation of implementation is the main thing that was convenient. Stairwells, from the stairs to the ceiling of the upper floor must be at least 2 meters to avoid hitting his head. As for the width of steps, you can use the formula: their width is 1/20 of the total width of the stairs. Ie if the width of the goose-step is 60 cm, the width of steps shall be 3 inches.
Step-by-step guide to building stairs ↑
If the desire is to collect the goose step is still there, you should move on to the nuances of the practical implementation of structures. Initially it is necessary to solve two main questions: what wood do a goose step and what to do. As a tree it is possible to follow the advice of many and to choose oak, beech or larch. Can experiment with other sorts of trees, but choose basswood or pine – not the best option. They are representatives of «soft» varieties that are not very suitable for heavy loads. The wood used for the stairs must be properly dried and it should be no knots that affect the strength of boards.
You should choose what will stand the goose step on the string or strings. As this is a practical manual, it is necessary to choose one or the other – we consider the first option. For a height of 3 feet, according to the variant posted earlier in the table, fit the bar with such parameters: width – 30 cm height – 6 cm Length should be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem.
So, if side a = 4 m and side b = 3 meters, then the square of the hypotenuse is: 16 + 9 = 25. The root of 25 equals 5, then the length of the beam is 5 meters. Here is a small illustration that is a practical example will show what and how:
When the parameters are known, then you can go directly to the markup of a bowstring and steps. To avoid traumatic situations, you should place the steps horizontally. That bearing came out of the same, to lay them under the stairs should be when the first string is already marked and slotted grooves for steps. Then just have to transfer all the data from the first to the second. When marking, we should not forget that «goose step» got its name for a reason, and for the present imitation of the goose step, so steps must alternate, as shown in the photos.
For the manufacture the steps you need to take the bar, which will provide previously planned steps. Before working on making the required forms, should make the necessary markup that will allow you to work accurately. During the build process not to damage the wood and not to spoil its aesthetic appearance, you should use a wooden or rubber hammer. Assemble ladder on a flat surface, the best would be on the floor. The first string should be put up grooves, the grooves to lubricate and insert the step. When they are fixed, up the stairs is placed a second bowstring, and the goose-step is almost ready.
For added operational stability can be used ties. They are in 3 or 4 places the string, and shall be constructed or made of wood, or of metal. Metal is more durable, but also their impact on the he goose step more visible, while the wood, you can insert, riving (for fixing) and mask using paint or quality paint.
Already assembled and ready to install the ladder should be fixed to the lower reference point, before making sure that the top part comes in a pre-cut recess. To fix anchor bolts should be, while constantly checking precise horizontal fixation.
For ladders of this type there is a clear fixation is a necessary condition to meet safety regulations. Also, if you try to adhere to building regulations, then goose step shall be equipped with a handrail. That is a very reasonable requirement, because given the slope of the goose step, the railing can help to save a lot of cash. For the original railings should prepare a poster on which they will be located.
The distance between the posts should be about 50-60 cm. A height of around 80-120 cm (depending on height of people who will be using them). They must be fixed vertically with respect to stairs, but the upper part, which will join the railings should be slanted at that angle as the angle of the stairs.
«Goose step» – reviews ↑
That article to the end. For those who are building this ladder is seriously interested, it’s helpful to read reviews of people who already have experience in the construction of these stairs:
«In General, the stairs happy, but due to the high level of slope, slippery wood steps was necessary for me to cover with varnish and anti-slip pads».
«Goose step provides a very interesting architectural idea, but for safety it is good to monitor: no spilled water or a wet slap. And to use it as the main entrance stairs – God forbid, do!»
«Danger, about which like to speak, it is possible, of course. Where is it not? But if the measured slope, as well as secure settings of the stairs – then why not implement? But in General – you decide. If you like to keep your posture and not afraid of heights – you can build».
«Well, there is danger, but if worn like mad, then for you, any stairs can be deadly, my dear. What did you expect? From my experience I can add that climbing on it is not so… unique as a descent. And do you know where they went? They do so since the middle ages with all sorts of buildings like mills, where people often had to go down with a significant load like a bag of flour. Therefore, for ease and built them. If you want unforgettable feelings of something build. But as for me, there are other, more comfortable options»
