Valley Rafter Video
Tim Carter shows a valley rafter in a common-framed roof. The valley rafter is part of the roofing framing on a house under construction.
Q&A /
Sheathing
OSB sheathing has now pushed plywood aside as the main stay for housing construction. The fiberboard sheathing serves several purposes mainly it is a structural material. The sheathing prevents the wall from racking from side to side.
Residential Steel Beams
Steel I beams can be used on residential construction. However a steel beam design might require special handling. Structural steel beams are heavier then wooden beams. Consider the cost of special cranes and steel beam prices when using steel beams.
Connecting Wood Beams Video
Wood beams can be found in many homes. Remodeling may require you to install a new beam next to an existing beam that may be too short or too weak. Wood ceiling beams need to be through bolted when they are connected. You must use the right through bolts and drill holes through the wood beams that match the diameter of the bolts.
Wiring For Your House – Make It Cat5 Cable
Both old and new homes should incorporate cat5 cable. This new house wiring standard is low voltage cable that provides options for networking appliances, telephone lines and computers all in one. Cat5 provides for future additions of these electronic devices-- and others we may not even have heard about yet!
Scissors Truss Design
A scissors truss provides the benefits of a vaulted ceiling in the same framing time as standard roof trusses. Structural engineers and special software customize the roof truss to your home roof pitch. Use standard trusses in part of your home and the scissors trusses or another special truss in other sections. Explore all truss options with your builder for custom results.
Remodeling? Smart Upgrades To Make While Changing Your Roof / Attic
If you are remodeling and have major roof and attic modification underway, now is a smart time to upgrade and add some other projects. Consider additional insulation, wiring, ventilation and wire conduits for starters. Adding one of the great central vacuum systems will also make your home more efficient and pleasant.
Trusses – Gain Space with a Scissors Truss
Ask your builder about special roof trusses that will gain storage space for your home. You can mix standard trusses with scissors, attic, or storage trusses, and avoid losing valuable space that is paid for but unusable. Call in a pro engineer before converting a traditional roof to a vaulted version.
Skylights – Flared vs. Straight Shafts
Skylights bring light, stars and the outdoors in to other parts of your room. Constructing a skylight with a flared, rather than straight, shaft will gain much more light with a simple expansion. Consult a professional structural engineer before tearing into your trusses, however!
Modifying a Load Bearing Wall
Modifying a load bearing wall with the addition of archways or openings is usually possible. Creating the proper support in the weight bearing wall for the shifted load is a task best left to the professional structural engineer. Follow these tips and tricks to craft your desired opening with the proper supports and beams.