How to Make a Bunk Ladder

The bunk bed ladder allows safe access to the top bunk.

All bunk beds provide a ladder to access the top bunk, but not all ladders stand the test of time. Metal ladders usually use small, rod-like steps that provide little foothold for younger children and wooden ladders grow weak with age. Fix the potential safety issue of a metal or old wooden ladder. Build a ladder that fits the needs of your children and the decor of the bunk bed.

Things You'll Need

• Two 2-by-4, 6-foot long boards
• Four to six 2-by-4, 12-inch long boards
• Wood glue
• Screws
• Drill
• Drill bit
• Saw

Instructions

1. Lean one of the 6-foot long, 2-by-4 boards against the bunk bed where you want it placed. Stand it so that the widest part would face in to the steps of the ladder. Adjust the angle so that the bottom of the board is as far out from the bed as you want the ladder to be. Draw a pencil mark across the board where it meets the top of the bed.

2. Cut two 45 degree angles on either side of the board. The first angle, at the bottom, allows the board to sit squarely on the floor. The second angle, at the top, allows the board to sit squarely against the side of the bed. Cut the second angle so that the highest part of the cut lines up with the line you draw. Use this board to cut your second 6-foot long, 2-by-4 the same. These are your handrails.

3. Lean the handrails against a wall 12 inches apart. Apply wood glue to the end of an 12-inch 2-by-4. Insert this 2-by-4 between the boards so that the widest part faces straight up and about a foot from the floor. Drill and screw it into place from the outside of the handrails, two on each side. Repeat for each step, placing each about a foot apart.

4. Allow to dry overnight. The next day, lead the new ladder against the bunk bed. As an option, screw the ladder into the bunk bed at the top, either one or two screws on each side.

Tips & Warnings

• Stain and clear coat the ladder to give it a nice finish. Paint the ladder to match your bunk bed.

References

• "Ask the Builder"; Building a Loft Bed; Tim Carter
• Futons and Beanbags: Bunk Bed Ladders