Loft construction for storage shed

[jjscott]

I would like to add a 12’x5’ loft to my 12’x18’ storage shed had have a few questions about the construction.

First, in order to maximize the loft height, I’m wondering if it would be OK to use joist hangers attached to the wall studs and a portion of the top of the wall…there are two horizontal 2x4’s where the roof meets the sidewalls and part of the hangers would be nailed to it.

Second, wondering if it would be OK to use 2x6’s for the 12ft span of the loft. I don’t plan to put any type of heavy equipment up there. It would be mainly lighter stuff, but I know it can add up over time. I will also be crawling around up there to get things up and down.

 

[Reese]

I built a U shaped loft in my 12 X 16 shed. I set 2x6's on edge on top of the walls spanning the 12' direction for a loft of 6 x 12. I used joist hangers to run 2x6's parallel to the 16' direction between the edge of the 6 x 12 loft and the front of the shed. leaving an open area in the center of 4 x 6.

I don't put anything crazy heavy up there but it has worked ok for 5 or 6 years. I get up there from time to time as well.