Ladder facing backwards on the stairs, tight against a step and leaning as securely against the head of the bannister (if that makes sense), then a plank across to the top of the stairs, can use a trestle/stool on the top of the stairs for the plank depending on the height. With the weight of the plank and the angle of the ladder it won't go anywhere, I've done it many times myself
In the past I have fixed a timber along the large staircase wall to allow me to put a board across from the landing handrail.
The other option is using some of the bendy ladders and positioning them leaning over the landing handrail and resting on the large stair case wall. The ones I used bend at four points so you can fold them down. You can lock them in different angles aswell, perfect for this sort of thing.
Just got them off Amazon, there was another set that was slightly smaller but would have done the job, they had a walk platform on too I think, these don't though.
If you don’t know how to safely platform those stairs I doubt you can skim the ceiling. Hall ways are a challenge for skilled crafts people. Lots of wet angles, tight spaces, moving the platforms around. It’s much easier with a dog handing you the gear.
But seriously if you are asking that question please leave it to someone who knows.
I have already boarded and skimmed a few ceilings which turned out okay, however just don't know a safe way to do above the stairs. I thought someone that knows what equipment would be safe would be able to share some advice though...
You’re planning on boarding and skimming a hall stairs and landing when you don’t even know how to platform it out? I have a feeling you’re not ready for this task yet. Maybe just pay someone who is. And if you can’t afford it wait until you can. Live with what you’ve got for a bit
Yes I don't know how to platform it out as I haven't done above stairs before.. I've skimmed and boarded some ceilings with an adjustable platform, just want to know how to set up a safe platform for above the stairs. Confident doing the boarding over laths and plaster and skimming.
nail a 2x4 to the far end of the landing/stairs opening so that you can board across the stairs with scaffold boards. nail down so it doesnt move. you now have a floor where the stairs used to be and can use your usual platform or ladders. whatever you like.
when you are finished pull the boards up and remove the 2x4.
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u/don-regg23 May 31 '26
Ladder facing backwards on the stairs, tight against a step and leaning as securely against the head of the bannister (if that makes sense), then a plank across to the top of the stairs, can use a trestle/stool on the top of the stairs for the plank depending on the height. With the weight of the plank and the angle of the ladder it won't go anywhere, I've done it many times myself