
A loft is a space above the main part of the shed, normally thought of as an attic. It goes from the top of the wall plates to the peak of the roof. You can put flooring in this space for more storage.
Full Answer
What are the best garden sheds with loft space?
The Lofted Garden Shed is our most popular storage building! With two overhead lofts there is much additional storage space. The large double doors on the side of the building allow for easy access to the entire building. Please explore below to see our variety of large sheds with loft space - they can even be used as a workshop or pool house!
Why are lofted sheds so expensive?
Lofted sheds are more expensive than standard sheds, because of the additional work and material for the loft areas. How much loft space is there in a lofted shed? The size of the loft is dependent on the width and length, but the height will be between 3’ – 3 ½’.
Can a lean to shed be used as a loft?
A saltbox style shed, and the lean to shed will not offer up as much storage space in the loft area, but there are still possibilities of utilizing some storage space up in their attic area. Some Shed Loft Pictures.... The 12x16 barn shed shown above is one of my most popular shed plans that I sell.
Can you build a loft that can stand up in?
So it is only possible to build a loft that it is possible to stand up in if you have a very large shed or a steep roof pitch. Full or partial shed loft? The floor area of the loft can extend over the full area of the roof. Or you may decide that it is best to build the platform for a short distance from the end wall.

What is shed loft?
literally. It's time to add a second floor in the form of a loft. Whether you need it for additional storage space, or you want to add a second level workspace, a loft can add tremendous functionality to your shed. A loft can add storage or even a workspace to a shed by giving you access to valuable unused space.
How do you build a loft on a shed?
0:4910:35How to Build a Loft in a Storage Shed or Tiny House (12X16) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFor the span. Across the shed. Which is 12 feet. And i'm going to put three of them per shelf. SoMoreFor the span. Across the shed. Which is 12 feet. And i'm going to put three of them per shelf. So hopefully i can put a lot of weight up on this loft without a sag and without a center pole.
How tall is a shed with a loft?
How high off the floor is the loft in a shed with a loft? The lofts sit on top of the sidewalls, which are either 6' 4 ½” or 6' 8 ½” in the lofted shed.
How do you build a loft area?
0:007:32How to Frame and Build a Loft – Home Design Examples - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIn this video I will provide you with a few ideas for actually framing the loft. And we'll startMoreIn this video I will provide you with a few ideas for actually framing the loft. And we'll start with a simple one here that I'm already drawn.
What is a garage loft?
You might be wondering, “what is a garage loft?” It's similar to lofting a bed. It's a room that's suspended above the ground level and right under the roof of your garage. Don't worry, everyone will be comfortable standing in your loft. It can be built 7-8 feet below the ceiling.
How do you build a loft roof?
1:355:29How To Build Barn Style Shed Roof Trusses - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBuild a temporary trusty egg by screwing. 2 two befores two adjacent edges of the floor. And ninetyMoreBuild a temporary trusty egg by screwing. 2 two befores two adjacent edges of the floor. And ninety degrees to each other align them to the edges of the floor.
What is the legal height for a shed?
it will be more than 4m high with a pitched roof or 3m high with a flat roof. If it will be within 2m of the boundary of the house, it must be 2.5m high.
How high should my shed be?
The best shed wall height is 8'-1 1/8”. It is an easy construct using readily available precut dimension lumber and sheathing. Minimal cuts, cost, and waste. Pre-hung standard doors and windows fit the wall height, as do insulation, drywall, and other interior wall finishes.
How do you build a loft in a barn?
4:1021:21Couple Builds MASSIVE LOFT In Pole Barn - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe are moving up into the loft area now so we're going to be moving a couple of sheets of osb upMoreWe are moving up into the loft area now so we're going to be moving a couple of sheets of osb up there so jeremy doesn't fall through and then we're going to throw up as much.
What is loft in building?
loft, in architecture, upper space within a building, or a large undivided space in a building used principally for storage in business or industry. In churches the rood loft is a display gallery above the rood screen, and a choir or organ loft is a gallery reserved for church singers and musicians.
Can you sleep in a loft room?
But when it comes to being a bedroom, a converted loft room cannot be called a bedroom merely because it offers enough space to fit a bed in, or because one has been put in there: a loft needs to be converted for the purposes of being a sleeping area, and in accordance with building regulations, in order to be called a ...
How do you build a freestanding storage loft?
1:0718:01Shop Loft Build - How to Increase the Storage Space in Your ShopYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe basic frame of the deck here in the larger garage got all of the pieces from a loft cut toMoreThe basic frame of the deck here in the larger garage got all of the pieces from a loft cut to length.
How do you build a freestanding loft?
0:5322:10Building a Large Mezzanine Loft By Myself - FULL BUILD - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUp I'm going to attach the joist plate to this wall. So in order to do that I need to figure out andMoreUp I'm going to attach the joist plate to this wall. So in order to do that I need to figure out and mark where all my studs are I know that they are two by six studs and they're 24 inches on Center.
How do I support my loft?
5:1412:26Loft Conversion Part 6 - Make & fit purlin supports. Support loft purlins.YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipA length of 2x4 screw. That down to the joist all the way along like that.MoreA length of 2x4 screw. That down to the joist all the way along like that.
How do you put joists in a shed ceiling?
2:203:40Simple Shed Part 2 Ceiling Joist and Common Rafter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPretty easy foundation. And the studs are again 16 on center. And you can look around here it goesMorePretty easy foundation. And the studs are again 16 on center. And you can look around here it goes the backside. I may cut a window out later.
How do you build a half loft?
0:195:11DIY Low Loft Bed with Free Build Plans - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe first step is to build two of these ends i'm going to use two and a half inch long number eightMoreThe first step is to build two of these ends i'm going to use two and a half inch long number eight torque head screws since they're self drilling they rarely split the wood.
Steps To Build A Loft In A Shed
Having the loft hatch at one end is ideal if you intend to utilize the loft as a ‘hangout’ room. This configuration makes the most of the available floor space. It’s entirely up to you!
Make Sure To Use A Handy Ladder
Make sure you have the step ladder with you at all times. When it’s time to get anything down from the loft, no one wants to go looking for that pesky step ladder. Consider constructing a permanent ladder to access your space if you have a complete or half loft. If you want a full-sized loft, you may also install pull-down steps.
Conclusion
A loft extension to your shed can be a fantastic addition, allowing you to maximize the storage capacity of your shed while also providing additional workspace. And, best of all, it’s a straightforward project that can be accomplished quickly and affordably.
What is loft in a shed?
It is of course to create a shed loft. The loft is essentially a platform supported of the side walls of the shed. To take full advantage of this space above your head there are a few factors that you need to take into account. Firstly in relation to planning the best use of this bonus space. Then actually building a strong and robust platform to support the 'stuff' that you are going to store.
What is a partial shed loft?
A partial shed loft makes it easier to access. than covering the full floor area . The floor area of the loft can extend over the full area of the roof. Or you may decide that it is best to build the platform for a short distance from the end wall. Having a loft over the full floor area means that you create the most storage space.
What does it mean to have a loft over a full floor?
Having a loft over the full floor area means that you create the most storage space. The Haynes Shed Manual. Report this Ad. However, it is easier to access stored items with a partial platform. You simply reach up for things when you need them, so the partial platform is good for items that you use often.
What does a removable ladder mean?
Having a removable ladder means that it will go 'missing' elsewhere around the house/garden just when you need it. Which will be an extra barrier to getting what you need when you want it. Once you have decided the layout of the loft you will need to start working on the details of how to build the platform.
How much floor load is needed for a shed roof?
For comparison, the typical floor loading in a domestic house is 150kg/m² (and would be the value to use if you are going to store larger items in the space and use for regular access) and for a shed roof without regular access is 0.75kg/m².
How to support a shed platform?
If you are building a shed from scratch the simplest way to support the platform is off the wall plate. If you are building a gable shed then make sure the bottom tie has enough strength for your requirements. An alternative method of supporting the platform is to fix a horizontal member to the wall studs.
Which is better: a central hatch or a floor hatch?
A central hatch is better for accessing items. Whereas floor area utilisation is maximised with a hatch at one end. If you are going to use the floor for storing 'stuff' then it is most likely best to have a central hatch.
What is a loft?
A loft is an additional level in your shed that encompasses the interior roof space between the top of the wallplates and the peak of your roof. Lofts are created by adding ceiling joists between the wallplates then installing plywood over these joists to create a floor.
What is a partial loft?
Partial lofts are ideal for smaller sheds with limited space in the interior roof area. A full loft will enclose the entire roof space of your shed. This is similar to the attic space you would find in many full-sized homes. A full loft maximizes the storage volume of your shed and is ideal for larger sheds with taller roofs.
What size joists should I use for a small loft?
Joists constructed with 2x4s are adequate for small lofts with limited storage space. However, if you’re creating a loft space that has enough access for you to walk around in it, then go with beefier 2×6 joists. Unless you’re creating a very small loft space, I suggest going with 2×6 joists to be safe.
How high should a loft ceiling be?
Your loft ceiling should be a minimum of 6’ above the shed floor to provide for adequate clearance.
What is a lean to roof?
A lean-to shed with high walls can offer a considerable amount of loft space. This is why the lean-to roof style is often used for tiny homes, which often make use of the low-ceiling lofts offered by this roof type for sleeping areas.
What to consider when framing a loft floor?
The biggest consideration to make when planning the framing for your loft floor is safety. You’re creating a second floor in your shed that will support the weight of the materials you’re storing as well as your weight. It also is a space that will have an area beneath it.
What is an access point for a loft?
The access point is the hole you’ll leave in your flooring to allow you to get in and out of the loft. Where your access should depend on what you plan on using the space for.
What is loft in a shed?
A loft is a space above the main part of the shed, normally thought of as an attic. It goes from the top of the wall plates to the peak of the roof. You can put flooring in this space for more storage. If your shed is big enough, you can actually make a sort of room up there. All but the smallest sheds or plastic sheds should have studs across the width of the roof base, making it easy to put in flooring.
How Do You Support a Shed Loft?
Floor joists for the loft (or shed ceiling rafters) are usually 2 x 4s or 2 x 6s. They can be larger sizes. You probably won’t want to store really heavy things in your loft. (Think of climbing up and down holding something heavy and getting it through the loft opening.) However, if you plan for more than just a very small space or to use it for something other than storage and you just have 2 x 4 joists, you may think about adding some extra support.
What Type of Roof Do I Need for a Loft?
The best type of roof for a loft space is the gambrel or barn-shaped roof , especially if the walls are at least six feet tall. Some sheds with gambrel roofs start the first roofing slope lower down and only have walls as low as four feet tall. This style of shed may not be suitable for putting in a loft space, as your main ceiling would be only four feet up or the loft space would be smaller.
Can I Build a Partial Loft?
Many people with large or long sheds choose to make a partial loft over half the available space or more. Of course, with this option, you won’t have to worry about building an opening for access. One good idea is to build a permanent ladder at one side of the loft or attach a ladder to the joists. This will prevent somebody (or yourself) from moving your access ladder to use on another project, then forgetting to put it back.
How Do I Get Access to the Loft?
You can build a simple opening in your flooring, using two cross braces attached to the joists. If the joists are too close together for this, you’ll have to cut one to make your access. Cut the flooring to match your opening framework. Some people like to have their opening near the center of the loft, enabling them to have access all around without moving around a lot; others prefer having the opening at one end to maximize space.
Are There Height Restrictions for a Shed?
Some municipalities and building codes have restrictions on overall shed heights. Some have restrictions on building a loft in a shed in order to use it for an office or extra sleeping place for company, as they regard this as having two stories in the shed. Many localities will not allow two stories in an outbuilding.
Why do we need a loft space?
Having a loft space makes good use of the space under the roof, which would otherwise go to waste. As anyone who owns a shed knows, no matter how big a new shed is, it fills up more quickly than you would think, leaving you wondering if you should have built a bigger shed. Building a loft space gives you much more space for storage, leaving the bottom part for larger things such as the riding mower or ATVs and things you regularly use.
What is the purpose of a loft?
Now with a loft for your storage, your ground floor holds exciting opportunities. Since your floor is open and spacious you can utilize this space for so much more. With all your extra items stored above, your ground floor can remain tidy and organized all year.
What is loft storage?
A shed with a loft offers space to store everything while opening room for the items you will be most likely to use on a day to day basis. The picture on the left may be an extreme example, but to some level, a reality for many of us. With your storage items above, the main floor is left open for a mini-workshop, potting shed or more!
What Makes A Storage Shed a Real Keeper?
There are many different storage sheds on the market today so how can we distinguish between all the options?
What is a 10x12 shed?
A 10×12 shed holds basic storage space. The 10×12 lofted barn offers the same and more!
How tall is a 10x12 barn?
While a 10×12 tack room style is 2’6” from the wall to the top of the roof, a 10×12 barn style increases this height to 4’ from the top of the wall to the top of the roof. So, with the 10×12 lofted barn you will get about 1’6” more in height.
What is a high barn shed?
A high barn shed offers a country-style taste with its barn-like appearance while adding additional height and space with its tall rafter design.
Who decides the best use of a lofted barn shed?
Ultimately, you are the one who decides the best use of your lofted barn shed.
Whether you have a she-shed, garden shed, small barn, or playhouse here are steps on how to build a loft in your own shed. This loft tutorial will walk you through building a loft for a small space. Along with my best organizing shed tips and other tricks at the end
I couldn't take it anymore. Our shed is piled with so much inside that you cannot even open the door. I knew I needed to do something but organizing wasn't going to solve the whole problem so that is when I decided to use the space up in the loft and devised this surprisingly simple project.
How to Build a Loft in a Shed
Before you begin building a loft, think about where you want the floor of your loft to be located. You want to take into account the ceiling height and what will be adequate clearance for what you plan on storing. In our case, we wanted as much height as possible in our loft so we decided that our loft would need to be 7 feet on the floor.
Building a Loft in a Shed
Our loft is only about 12 feet wide so our floor joists are not the standard width and we do not plan to be walking on our loft floor so that is another reason why they are spaced further apart. Be mindful and consider how much weight you'll want the floor to support.
Building a Floor Frame for a Shed Loft
Start by measuring along the back wall the width and cutting a 2 x 4 to those measurements. Then measure up from the floor where you want the first board to be placed and make a mark. Because we wanted a floor clearance of 7 feet, we knew the bottom of our boards needed to be right at the 7-foot mark.
Adding a Floor to the Loft Frame
At this point, you can start seeing things come together. Once you have all your floor joists in place, it is time to cut your plywood for the floor.
How to Build a Loft Ladder
I got this idea from my grandma's old garage. She has a loft on each end of her garage with an opening in the middle. On one side she had a loft ladder like the one I am going to show you how to build. This is a super easy project.
New Shed Door
A door swing can make a big difference in a small room. Our door was swinging into the shed which took up a lot of floor space. When you opened the door you couldn't see what was inside first only the wall to the left making it feel like there was less space available.
What is a lofted shed?
The Lofted Garden Shed is our most popular storage building! With two overhead lofts there is much additional storage space. The large double doors on the side of the building allow for easy access to the entire building. Please explore below to see our variety of large sheds with loft space - they can even be used as a workshop or pool house!
Why should I choose Countryside Barns for my lofted shed?
When searching for a high-quality shed to purchase, Countryside Barns strives to build the highest quality lofted shed at an affordable price.
What is a gambrel roof shed?
A gambrel roof shed has two main slopes per side. A common reason to have a gambrel roof shed is that they usually have a loft, which allows for additional storage.
Are lofted sheds more expensive?
Lofted sheds are more expensive than standard sheds, because of the additional work and material for the loft areas.
Can you rent to own a shed with a loft?
With no credit check, you can finance your lofted shed with the rent to own financing option.
