[gregorie0880]

Hi.

I have a set of attic stairs that drop properly, but require maybe 10 pounds of pressure to open completely. So going up the stairs is fine, but then the stairs lose that 10 pounds of pressure and fold slightly at the bottom.

My brain tells me the springs are slightly too tight, but cannot find the same spring at big box hardware stores.

Anyone an expert on attic stairs who has seen this problem?

I have attached two pictures of stairs. One with two dumb bells on it.

Thanks.

Greg

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,...... Just put a couple of hook, 'n eyes on that joint that wants to fold, to lock 'em into place,.....

 

[Nealtw]

 

[hkstroud]

The bottom section needs to be trimmed slightly.

Lower the stairs. Fold the lower section back so the upper and middle sections can come down completely. Using a straight edge on the top of the middle section, measure the distance between the top corner of the middle section to the floor. Cut the end of the lower section to that length at an angle parallel to the floor.


Measure and cut each side independently to insure that stairs rest flatly on the floor when lowered.


Stairs were probably put in before the carpet was laid.

 

[Old Thomas]

The springs that assist lifting the stairs are too strong. Maybe find a way to anchor them differently to reduce their pull strength.

 

[Colbyt]

I suspect the carpet was added after the stairs were installed. As a result the stairs probably need trimming just a bit.



It is natural for the stairs to flex a bit when you put a body on them. I don't see a problem. The springs and stairs are designed as a unit and any replacement parts should be exactly the same.


I see nothing I would waste time working on.