How to Build a Storage Loft

A storage loft can offer accessible, practical storage in the garage, above a stairwell or even in the attic. Your storage loft can be quite simple, built quickly and easily or you can opt for a more finished look. Plan your loft design based upon both the space and your storage needs, considering ease of access, overall storage space, height and the function of the space below the loft area. Use your storage loft for holiday decorations, summer camping gear or out-of-season clothing.

Things You'll Need

• 2-by-8-inch boards
• 4-by-4-inch or 6-by-6-inch posts
• Post anchors, size to match post
• Lag bolts
• Joist hangers
• Joist nails
• 2-by-8-inch board lumber
• Deck screws
• 3/4-inch plywood
• Drill and bits

Instructions

1. Determine the dimensions for your storage loft. Allow for at least one floor support post. Be sure that your garage loft still allows for your car. Take advantage of a high ceiling by positioning a loft high enough to allow full walking space beneath it. Build a loft indoors for storage or additional space.

2. Plan for one floor garage loft support, using a 4-by-4-inch or 6-by-6-inch post. Add additional supports if desired for a larger loft. Allow for one storage loft floor joist every 16 inches, as well as boards along all four sides of the garage loft. Use these guidelines to determine how much lumber you should purchase. Have the home improvement center cut to your lumber to the necessary sizes, or cut it yourself at home using a circular saw.

3. Secure 2-by-6-inch ledger boards to the walls of your garage, placing them at the height you would like your storage floor joists to sit. Use 3/8-inch lag bolts to attach the boards to the wall studs. Screw the lag bolts at least 2 inches into the wall studs, attaching the boards at every stud.

4. Attach a post anchor to your garage floor using a masonry bit to screw it into place. Secure the post into position.

5. Attach the two remaining ledger boards into position, securing them to the floor support post and the wall-mounted ledger boards.

6. Nail joist hangers into position every 16 inches on two sides of the frame. Install the floor joists into place, sliding them into the hangers to finish the floor supports for your garage loft.

7. Lay 3/4-inch plywood on top of the floor joists of your storage loft. Secure the flooring into place with 1-1/2-inch deck screws.

Tips & Warnings

• Add railings if desired or required by local building codes.

• Paint or finish your lumber for a more professional look or an indoor storage loft.

References

• Storage Loft Information
• Garage Storage