How can I build a loft in my shop?

Dwight Jackson
by Dwight Jackson

  4 answers
  • Seth Seth on Jun 26, 2019

    Dwight,

    We need some more info. Do you just want a small storage space? Will you be able to stand up in this space and use it regularly? Is this in a garage, shed, barn, or basement? What size floor area are you planning? If you could post a picture it would be helpful. This youtube shows one way to do it.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qt0YgR2jR0A


  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on Jun 26, 2019

    Start with a deck off the wall and go from there

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Jul 01, 2019

    To Seth’s point: what kind of loads are you going to put on it?

    Paper (records) storage is extremely heavy @ 400 lbs per square foot (by Code).

    Live Loads, aka people walking on it, are at 200 lbs per square foot, if I recall correctly.

    If people are up there, then there’s stair requirements & guard rail requirements.


    Please get local professional help in at least a structurally sound drawing, so that you’ve no problems.


    For example:

    When I sold my last home, I had a garage mezzanine designed to hold serious weight (engines & transmissions)

    The Whole House Inspector decided to red-tag my utility stair and make it comply to interior stair requirements! As in, no open risers, complete handrail with 4 inch spacing on the dowels, and guard rail at the top.

    I ripped out the stair and said the new owners could use a ladder. It’s an attic, not a mezzanine.