When I began thinking about a lumber-storage rack for my commercial shop, I was poised to purchase some of those huge, free-standing, cantilevered I-beam things that would cost $750 or more. The rack I built cost about a third of that in materials, plus a few hours of labor and it is equally suitable for the home shop.

Each 24-in.-wide frame is made from 2×6 lumber and consists of two posts and a top and bottom plate. The frames are nailed together and connected with 2x4s at the top and bottom corners. Sixteen pieces of iron pipe make the four shelves that support the lumber. To stabilize the rack, you will need to attach it to joists overhead or add diagonal bracing on the sides.

Before assembling the frames, I measured and drilled holes through the 2x6s for the 1-1/2-in. I.D. (slightly under 2 in. O.D.) cast-iron pipe. I drilled holes slightly larger with a 2-in.-dia. hole saw. The loose fit made it easy to insert the pipes, after which I wrapped the pipes with duct tape to make the fit more snug.

Click to enlarge.

The shelf width is just right for stacking typical lumber. Dollar for dollar and square foot for square foot of storage, this is a great wood rack.

Drawings by Jim Richey.

Drawings by Jim Richey.

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