There are currently an estimated 127.59 million homeowners in the US.
While all these people have made an amazing choice investing in real estate and have (hopefully) selected a home that they’re comfortable with, everyone wants to take a step forward sometimes. After all, a little extra space can go a long way when it comes to comfort.
One of the best ways to expand your home space is to add a loft. This can be a challenge, but it’s also a lot of fun to design and create a space. If you’re interested in taking on this fun project, you’re probably wondering where to start.
Here, we’re going to give you some pointers on how to build a loft. Hopefully, once you’re done reading this, you’ll feel both motivated and prepared to build a living or storage space that matches your vision for your home!
Building Your Loft
While you’re going to want to bring the pros in for later steps, there are some measures you should take before calling them. Figuring out how your loft will fit into your house as well as how you want it built is a crucial first step. In this section, we’re going to tell you some of the most important considerations and steps to take when building the perfect loft.
What Is a Loft, Anyway?
Before you can get to building, it’s important to know what exactly a loft is. Simply put, it’s a space that exists right under the roof of a building. It can be used for extra living space or for storage, depending on what you want to use it for.
Like an attic, it’s accessible by a ladder. Because it’s on the top story of your home, you’re going to want to pick an area where you can install a ladder that allows for easy access.
Decide What It’s For
Now that you know what a loft is, the next step of the building process is to consider what you want the loft to be used for. As we brushed on previously, lofts can be used either for living spaces or for storage. The way that you want the space to be built will vary with what you plan to do with it.
If your loft is meant to be primarily for storage, you don’t have to worry much about having a beautiful design. You also won’t need to worry about making it accessible on a daily basis. If you want to make a loft where you study, hang out, or watch TV, you’re going to want to make it cozy and easy to get to.
Analyze Your Space
Once you’ve decided what you’re going to use your loft for, it’s time to assess what kind of space you have in your home. If one of your rooms has a high ceiling, that might be the place to install your loft. That way you won’t have to spend money and time building add-ons to your home.
Whether or not you’re going to pay for add-ons, you should be on the lookout for ceiling shapes that look like those you’d want as your loft ceiling. Remember that you want space to stand up, even if it’s just for the purpose of occasional access to the Christmas decorations!
Get Started on Building
You know the basics of what you want your loft to look like. Great! It’s time to get designing and building. There are ways to DIY your loft space, but this is generally pretty dangerous. Not only will you have to lift heavy wood and climb with its weight, but your loft might not hold up.
Luckily, finding professional help is easier than ever. Just check online and you’re sure to find a service that’s affordable and effective for your needs!
Getting the Right Stuff
Once your loft actually exists, it’s time to get to the fun stuff. Read on to learn how to find the right ladder, furniture, decorations, and, yes, storage features that you can add to your new space.
Loft Ladders
No matter what you’re using your loft for, you’re going to need to install a ladder in the room under it. Without doing this, you’ll never be able to access the living space or any of the items you might put in your loft, which totally defeats its purpose.
Fortunately, there are a lot of different types of loft ladders to choose from. This means you’re sure to find something that’s not only easy to install, but also suits your spacial needs and looks great with your home decor.
Shelving and Storage
No matter what you decide to do with your loft, you’re going to need some form of shelving. If you’re using it as a furnished living space to curl up with a good book or work on DIY projects from home, you’re going to want bookshelves and drawers to contain your favorite items.
If your loft is going to be more of a storage space, you’re going to need shelves for storage. Make sure that the shelves are sturdy enough to support any tools or bins you plan to put there. Make the most of your space!
Furniture
If you choose to use your loft as a living space, you’re going to need to include whatever furniture and decorations you’ll want while you’re up there! This means you’ll need to install a bed if you plan on sleeping in your loft.
If you want a study or reading space, a desk and some beanbag chairs will be a great addition. Add in art and lighting to make the space cozy. The possibilities are limitless!
More on How to Build a Loft
Adding any space onto your home is a challenge. Luckily, if you know how to assess your space and build a loft that works for your home’s layout, you’re sure to succeed.
Now that you know how to build a loft that’s sure to be an amazing addition to your home, it’s time to get started! Check out the ‘browse providers’ tab on our page to find a business that will help you build the loft of your dreams.
Good luck!