How to Loft a Bed
Knowing how to loft beds is a great way to create space in a small room, be it in a college dorm or a dream house. Bed lifts are the easiest way to loft a bed, although they only offer from about three to seven inches of extra room. They are available at retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond and Target.
A loft bed is also fairly easily to construct. If the bed will be used in a dorm room, check the institution’s regulations on alterations before beginning. The first step is to measure the dimensions of the room in order to choose the right size of lumber. The dimensions of the mattress must also be taken.
Using the desired dimensions, build a square frame out of 2x4’s. Pre-drill holes in the end to avoid cracking, and use bolts and screws for easy disassembly if necessary. Add at least two support brackets in the middle by measuring how wide the inside of the frame is and having two or more 2X4's cut to this size. Pre-drill holes from the outside of the bed frame into the center supports, and use long screws to attach them.
Next, have a sheet of medium density fiberboard cut to the same size as the wood frame and use it to cover the top of the wood frame. Drill holes through the top of the MDF into the wood frame and attach with screws. Use wood filler to fill any holes, cracks, gaps, or seams. Once the filler dries, turn the frame over. Attach one leg to each corner of the frame, making sure that they are the same height and thick enough to support the desired amount of weight. Flip the bed back over, prime, paint, and enjoy!
