Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: convert garage into family room w/ vaulted ceiling

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Carpentry and Framing
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 12 Jan 2001
Time: 09:03 PM

Comments

In the case of new construction, vaulted ceilings are best accomplished with either deep rafters (such as 2x10's or 2x12's to allow for ample insulation and air circulation) or with scissor trusses (which look something like a triangle with a bottom that pitches upward towards the peak.)

However, if you want to convert an existing garage into a family room, first you need to ensure that the existing ceiling is not load bearing in any way (for example, a post that is transferring load from the ridge, say to a ceiling beam or pair of ceiling joists).

Assuming you have a clear span, my guess is that your existing garage rafters are 2x4 or 2x6, which are the two most common sizes. If this is the case, I would recommend simulating a scissors truss by leaving the existing rafters intact and building a parallel set of rafters underneath at a slightly shallower angle. You could nail or bolt the new rafters alongside the existing rafters, but use a shallower pitch. Of course, without seeing the existing roofline, it's hard to know if this will work in your case or not.

When dealing with structural issues such as ceilings and roofs, it is imperative that you seek the advice of a local architect, engineer or general contractor. You want to make sure that your remodel is both safe and legal. Depending on where you live, you should definitely check with the building department to make sure it is legal to convert your garage into a living area. You may not care now, but when it comes time to sell your house, you may have to restore it to the original condition if the addition is not legal. Issues such as egress, heating/cooling, windows and ventilation are all items to consider if you perform this conversion.

Hopefully these ideas will point you in the right direction.

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