How to Build a Loft Bed
A loft bed is a type of bunk bed with an open space underneath the higher-level bunk. The space beneath can be utilized to its maximum capacity; storage shelves, cabinets, or a chest can be built in this empty space. A further sleeping area can also be added. A loft bed includes a ladder for reaching the top bed.
Required Materials
- plywood and lumber boards
- bolts and screws
Required Tools
- electric drill
- screwdriver
Instructions
- Measurements - Cut: a piece of 4×8x3/4”, 4 lumber posts of 4×4x8’ length, 3 lumbers of 2×6x8’, and 1 piece of 3.5”x8’ board. If you are using a mattress of 38×76”, cut two 2×6s to a length of 78”. Cut 2 pieces of 37” length out of the left-over 2×6x8’.
- Building the Posts - These vertical pieces will overlap the short ones at the corners of the bed to form a box shape measuring 40×78” with a height of 5½”. Connect the 2×6x8s with each other at the corners using 3” screws. The plywood needs to be cut to fit into the 2×6x8” box. Ensure that the post length measurements for all 4×4x8’ pieces are equal.
- Completing the Loft Bed - Hold 2 of the posts in such a way that their outer edges are in line with a gap of 78” between them. Put the platform tilted on the posts and then attach the posts to the platform with 4” and 3/8” bolts drilled through the 2×6x8’. Repeating the same process with the other 4×4x8’ posts will complete your loft bed.
Fixing the Ladder - Position the 1” lumbers at a distance of 10” apart and at an angle of 60 degrees to make steps. Then attach them to the loft bed with bolts at the foot, side or front. For the final touches, sand all wooden surfaces. You can then either leave the bed bare or paint it to a desired color.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure there is ample ceiling space above the bed.
- Do not make the bed’s width too tight.
- Ensure that the ladder is tightly attached.
- Do not use screws to fix the frame as they might not be able to hold the weight. Bolts will be more suitable.
- Measure the mattress before you fix the box frame.
- Fully utilize the space underneath by constructing a simple cabinet for storage.