I’m building a 12’hx18″w ladder to access a finished attic. For the rails, I’m using some heart pine 2x4s I salvaged when they tore down my beloved late neighbor’s house. They actually 2″x4″. For the treads, I plan on using ash or maple. My question is how best to add support for the treads. Aesthetically, I don’t really want to put a rod underneath. I feel like my two options would be to drill a hole through each tread and run a threaded rod through it. Or, resaw the treads and embed a steel rod or plate – probably offset so I can center some lag bolts from the side – and glue them back together. I should mention that the rungs will be at least 5″ deep per code for ships ladders. I had planned on using 4/4 stock. Maybe 8/4 wouldn’t need support, but I don’t know if I would like the beefier look.
Any opinions on my thoughts or other suggestions will be appreciated.
Replies
Do you really need reinforcement? 1" thick maple or ash is pretty strong. But if you're convinced you do, how about a second piece of wood, say 1"x2"x 18" (turned on its narrow edge), glued underneath the tread, essentially making a "T". Even that small amount of extra thickness makes a huge difference in the strength.
mrossk, that's a good/elegant idea. thanks.
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