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For my weekend project, I built a big 8'x8'x7' loft from scratch in my apartment. I'll walk you through the process, garnishing the instruction meal with appetizing quips.
(and remember: Art is Wrong! http://www.artiswrong.com
(and remember: Art is Wrong! http://www.artiswrong.com
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Signing UpStep 1What yer gonna do...
So, this instructable is the epic saga of the construction of my new mighty loft at Fort Art=Wrong. It's longish, because I tried to take incredibly detailed pictures at every step of the construction, and after reading it, hopefully you can be a hero! Or at least build a loft...
(but you'll always be a hero in my heart)
(what am I talking about????)
(you can click the _next_ button now)
(but you'll always be a hero in my heart)
(what am I talking about????)
(you can click the _next_ button now)
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your joints are a little over complicated. instead of using 2x4's for the perimiter, use 2x6's. 2x6 gives you room for 2 carrage bolts and eliminates the need for the diagonal braces. use 1/4" diameter bolts. they're more than strong enough and easier to work with than 1/2" bolts. if you notch the 2x6's into the 4x4 posts then you don't need bolts. (3) 2 1/2" screws in each joint will be more than strong enough. to notch the 4x4 simply set your circular saw to 1 1/2" depth. lay the 2x6 on the 4x4 and mark the top and bottom edge. make a series of cuts with the circular saw at about 1/2" spacing then wack out the scrap with a hammer. see photo. at first it seems hard but it's really a very simple joint. it's very strong because all the loads are transferred directly to the post, eliminating the need for carrage bolts, and it's very stable and wont wobble.
you can still use 2x4's to support the plywood platfform. instead of doing the middle cross pieces, simply run (2) 2x4's together that will support the plywood edge. for each plywood should have a 2x around the edge and (2) intermediates (16" o.c.). so you need a total of (4) 2x6's and (6) 2x4's.
since this was posted in 2006 i'm sure that this loft is long gone and you guys have moved on with your lives. i wanted to comment anyway so anyone else planning on a loft may find the comment helpful.
another trick is to screw leveling feet into each 4x4 post. it'll keep the post from damaging the floor. with older buildings (and far to many new ones) the floors aren't level so the feet will help to stabalize the loft.
http://www.amazon.com/T-Nut-Cabinet-Furniture-Levelers-4/dp/B0037MKJ2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1316784179&sr=8-1
Back in my college days I built many similar structures, may I suggest the inclusion of deck-joist hanger type hardware to enhance the strength of the joins and assure the true alignment of such.
also, love that you have your bits of wood lying on your mattress as you prep for building -
unless people have lived in TINY or awkward spaces they have no idea how there's no space while you're building something that will give you more space!
you've inspired me- I CAN make my tiny little room into a bedroom!
thank you
Site note: The difference between the nominal and actual dimensions of lumber is increasing (in the U.S.) because we've used up all of our good quality wood. As a result, we now use wood that grows faster so it is cheaper but not as strong, and deforms more severely when curing.
(did you paint the bike during the same weekend ;) ?
Can that bird in the picture ride a bike-trailer?
Russel!