[Fulltiming]

My step lifts at that hinge and is carpeted storage. I keep the built in vacuum cleaner hose and attachments in there. Yes, it is a pain to have it openable with anything other than carpet. Originally, from the hinge the step below all lifted together with the riser. It does look like someone may have spot welded the step below. There is a large storage area unit there. Mine does not have those extra metal strips on the edge of the steps so it was easy to clear the carpet or other flooring material on the sides when opening. The biggest issue with the useable opening step is covering the hinge when it is closed an yet allowing it to open up about 120 degrees.