Loft conversion?
Question:how would i go about supporting my roof before doing a loft conversion.
diagrams would also be appreciated.
pgiltinane2000@yahoo.co.uk
thank you
Answers:
I would advise against doing this part yourself. If you get it wrong your whole house could collapse and possibly take some of the neighbour's house too if you are not detached. You would not be insured since you had caused it by your DIY - it would not be considered an accident.
I don't live in the UK and have no diagrams, and especially don't have any details from your Q about the structure of the dwelling.
In the area where the loft will be, are the roof rafters/trusses exposed in an attic type situation? Is this an area above a level of living space? I'm trying to imagine that the roof, no matter the construction is already supported, or I certainly hope it is.
The floor joists/beams for the loft as another level of viable living space can be 2x10 by the proper length, Supported with galvanized Hangers and ledgers. To increase roof strength might only be accomplished with support beams running vertically from some base surface, though I still can't imagine a need to.
I've built a few "lofts" and created finished living spaces in unfinished attics, and never yet had to create support for a roof that was already designed for the rest of the structure.
Steven Wolf
The work you describe is relatively simple and if you are DIY minded should be no problem. Just remember that the ceiling joists from you bathroom or bedroom will be supporting the extra load. Any Carpentry and Joinery book from your local library should give safety tips and diagrams that you can follow.
If in doubt try to get advice from an aquaintance that is in the trade first.
More Related Questions & Answers...