College Dorm Loft (accepts Twin XL Frame) *updated*

This is a loft to get your bed up off the ground to increase functional room space. This loft accepts a given frame (the dimensions used on this loft are for the frames provided by Iowa State University, but may be the same as others). This is very similar to--but much more sturdy than--the kits available from Lowes. Note that this is an improvement to my last (years) loft plans, available here.

Step 1: Materials, Tools, and Cutting

Tools:
- Compound Miter (Chop) Saw
- (Cordless) Drill
- Wrench / Socket
- Tape Measure
- Triangle or Carpenters' Square

Materials:
- 2 1/2" Deck Screws
- 3 1/2" Carriage Bolts, with nuts, washers, and lock washers
- 2x4's
- 1x4
- 1x10 (optional)

Cutting Lengths:
Part Board Length Quantity
- Ladder...............2x4...........36 1/2"....................x6
- Uprights............2x4...........60"...........................x8
- Beam, outer.....2x4...........73" ..........................x3
- Beam, inner.....2x2...........63" ..........................x2
- Guard rail.........1x4...........32" & 20"................x1

Step 2: Uprights

The uprights consist of two 2x4's screwed together. These are the primary pieces of the loft. For the frames provided by ISU, note the outside piece is shorter on top to accommodate an odd brace in the frame.

The uprights are attached to the beams using carriage bolts, and are firmed up with screws to alleviate wiggle/wobble.

Step 3: Beams

The beams hold the uprights the correct distance apart, and keep them plumb, level, and square. They consist of a 2x4 and a 2x2 (ripped 2x4). Notice the top of the uprights lines up with the top of the inside of the beam (the 2x2 piece).

Step 4: Ladder

The ladder is not only used for getting into and out of your bed, but also for keeping the uprights firm in the right place. Placement is up to you, but I placed my steps like so:

18" from floor to top of bottom step
18" from top of bottom step to top of middle step
18" from top of middle step to top of top step

For transport, I leave the side (step) units whole, meaning the 2 uprights and 3 steps stay attached.

Step 5: Assembly Tips

Tips:
- Use a triangle/ carpenters' square to make sure everything is square, this is very important to keep the loft sturdy and wiggle free.
- Make braces for the from side from scrap 2x4's, as seen in first photo
- The beds at ISU are about 10" thick, with a 2" tall frame underneath, adjust your roll-off guard according to your preference.
- When assembling, assemble the "ends", or "ladder" pieces first, then add the beams, then the other supports.
- Don't forget the brace across the back bottom!

Optional:
Make a bookshelf from a 2x8 or 2x10, and mount it across the back, be creative!