attic space vs roof framing

Jul 22, 2006 3 Replies
C

wondering if anyone has experience with making a room out of attics that contain cross ties (bracing) between the rafters on opposite sides.



i have an attic that i'm considering getting estimates from engineers/architects to convert into livable space.



was curious how much work is involved in removing the cross ties (that are now about 5 feet above the floor joists, every 4 feet or so).



what's the engineering or framing principle to remove them and not affect the rafters transmitting their load to the bearing walls?



the rafters are squared up against a ridge beam.



i'd also have to relocate the AC unit & ducting, also beef up the joists.



the main concern was the cross ties/bracing.



has anyone done any projects like this ?


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M

They are there for a good reason, consider raising them and make them decorative.

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J

That's one an engineer needs to evaluate. Too many things to consider.

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F

Are you talking about collar beams? Go to the library and get a copy of Chings illustrated construction or some other framing design book and look at the various framing configurations and sizings. That will probably tell you if it is worth hiring a structural engineer to look at your specific case, which you should do if you go through with the project.

If you're talking about collar beams and you only have one every four feet, you might be able to put them on every rafter and raise them up enough to get the head room you need.

Yes I've done a project where I had to sister the joists for floor loading and add collar beams to recover some attic space that wasn't predesigned for finishing.

Frank

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