Loft bed support

[DiscoStu]

As per a previous post I am looking to build a loft bed. I've got an alcove that is 2500mm long and 600mm wide. It's an obvious spot for it although longer than required. My intention is to use the three walls to support a bed base. So I'll get some 4"x2" and run it round the three walls, then join another long 4x2 onto the front.

My question is: Will using the three walls be strong enough to support the weight of a bed?

I would be looking to join the front board using half lap joints (so you'd see them from the front and the board would be half joined with the full length on top - if that makes any sense?).

Is this sensible are there other ideas? I'd like to avoid leg supports if possible.




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[Phil Pascoe]

I suspect 4" x 2" on the front would sag in the end. A 5" x 2"? a 6" x 2" if you've the height? or laminate something smaller?

 

[DiscoStu]

The height isn't an issue as there will be a rail on the inside to support the bed slats so making it 6 x 2 is no issue, i can certainly do that.

 

[Phil Pascoe]

Actually, from a design point a 6" x 2" isn't a bad idea as a bit more surface area would allow you to rout some decoration into the front. (if you choose to, of course )

 

[DiscoStu]

The front will be clad with board. I've actually got two to make. One will have "walls" on either side of the front face (so support on this one isn't much of an issue as the "walls" will have uprights behind them). On one wall will be the ladder and on the other will be a climbing wall.

The second is likely to go the full width and have a full width desk underneath and a more traditional ladder. There is a chance I might build steps and enclose drawers in them.