How feasible is it to convert a set of stairs into a slide in a duplex home without destroying the existing structure, and what materials would be best for this unique renovation?
Hey there, I’m a new member here and this is my first post. Super excited to share that I just bought my very first home! Growing up, my parents never owned a house either, so this is a huge milestone for me. We ended up getting a place that used to be a duplex, and it still has some quirky features because of that. One of the most interesting ones is having two sets of stairs going upstairs, right next to each other. Everyone keeps suggesting we tear down the wall separating them, but we’re actually thinking about turning one side into a slide instead! We’re basically just kids in adult bodies haha. I’ve seen slides you can buy and attach, but I’m not really into that. I also don’t want to mess up the stairs. I’m picturing something like an outdoor embankment slide in my head. Do you think it’s possible? And how would we even go about doing that? I’ve never done any renovations before, so please be gentle. I’m just curious if it’s something that could be done. Any suggestions on what material we could use for the slide?
Try reaching out to a sheet metal fabrication shop, they might be able to help with that.
Ohhh got it!
I’m not quite sure how to assist, but I absolutely adore the idea!
Before making a decision, consider how often you’ll actually use the slide once the initial excitement fades. Keep in mind that it can get hot in the summer, cold in the winter, and may be unusable if it snows. Is it worth the investment of time and money? That’s for you to determine.
I am confident that she prefers to have it indoors.
Just imagine having it inside our house! We could even send our laundry down it. And I bet it would provide endless entertainment for my daughter.
I apologize for the confusion, but your photo made it seem like it was located outdoors. Please make sure to review your local building codes before proceeding with any plans.
Hey , I actually used the image as my muse, as I mentioned in my description 😁 Appreciate the suggestion! I’ll look into it
Hey , I did read your clarification, but the photo from outside still gave me the impression it was outdoors. 💁🏼♀️
Hey , I’m seriously envious of you. This opportunity sounds like a dream! You should definitely go for it!
‘t expect laundry to slide down well, unless you’re sending it down in a basket like Moses. You’ll need some heavy reeds at the bottom to slow it down.
There will definitely be a lot of trial and error if we manage to build this!!
Head to a park and throw some clothes down a slide. It’s a cost-free trial instead of buying a personalized stainless slide that may not be slippery enough.
Setting laundry on it isn’t what it’s mainly for lol. We aim to go down it! We hope our daughter goes down it.
I’m just reiterating what another commenter mentioned about the joy eventually fading. However, you’ll always have laundry to do. It’s important to ensure the secondary function is working properly. By the way, consider visiting a metal fabricator and explaining your needs.
As someone who is young at heart, I believe the enjoyment never diminishes as long as you hold onto it. 😁 Thank you!
I just experienced that slide on my legs. Haha
I might opt for a stair slide instead of a regular slide, it seems like a more practical choice for our space
Yeah but that’s not the ideal choice 🤷🏼♀️
I understand, I’ve only come across the spiral staircases in houses that cover multiple levels. But I’m sure there’s a solution.
Oh yeah, those are awesome! We’ve got that extra staircase that doesn’t really serve a purpose, so we thought it would be fun to utilize the space creatively without undergoing a major renovation
What do you think about giving something similar a try?
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Original-Stair-Mounted-Kids-Indoor-Slide-for-9-to-12-Stairs-4-Pack-SSWHITE-4/323456074
I have definitely come across those. I am really keen on having an actual slide over the stairs, but I am unsure about the cost or difficulty involved.
I believe one of those HGTV programs, Fixer to Fabulous, featured this on an episode, you could look it up on the internet
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I came across the episode
That’s great! I really appreciate it!
I really like the concept, especially the idea of having a slide! I don’t have any suggestions other than to just go for it! I thought you might like my slide, even though it’s a purchased one.
Your slide is amazing! That is fantastic
I also consider myself a child at heart, I think 🤣 & thanks!
Check out interior slide ideas on Pinterest!
https://pin.it/13HXcjVeg
I recommend reaching out to your homeowners insurance before going through with this, seems like a risky move!
That sounds like a blast!!🤣🤣 My only worry is, what’s waiting at the end of the slide? Is there a proper place to stop??… because it would be a pain to repair the wall!!🤣🤣🤣🤷♀️
Exactly! There’s a platform at the top 😊
I have no clue, but I really would love to become your friend!
Budget is a big factor to keep in mind. Slides can be quite pricey. We repurposed one from our old swing set for the new one my husband built because a small plastic curly slide alone costs $500.
For what you’re envisioning, sheet metal would be more practical, but a pre-made one can range anywhere from $1500 to $20000 depending on size, style, and quality.
The average cost is around $3k.
This doesn’t include the expense of having one custom-made as some commenters have suggested.
You could try looking on marketplace for used park equipment. We managed to get swings and a climbing dome for free when they were being removed.
Some pieces can be adapted to suit your needs.
If that’s not feasible for you financially, you may need to consider plastic stair slides as a more affordable alternative.
Check out some pictures of the “city museum” in St. Louis. They’ve used reclaimed slides from outdoor parks and incorporated them into the museum. You could try reaching out to a sheet metal company for a price estimate. If your staircase isn’t too tall, you might be able to find a reclaimed slide.
I really love that suggestion!
I’d suggest looking for wood with a gorgeous grain that you can stain and then finish with polyurethane to cover your steps.
I find that idea quite intriguing!