It helps unify the rafters so if one takes a load, it is distributed over many. Also an important component, they are held in place by the collar ties. everything would need to be rebuilt with a design by a structural engineer before any of this can be removed.

Can you remove roof joists?

No way should you just take out the ceiling joists as they are integral to the roof structure and prevent the walls from being pushed out. Get a structural engineer involved. It will cost you a few hundred but at least you’ll have a safe roof.

Can you remove rafter ties?





With a properly engineered structural ridge, rafter ties can be eliminated completely.

Can you remove joists?

In order to remove the ceiling joists and vault the space, you’ll need to install temporary supports under all existing roof joists, remove the existing vertical supports under the ridge beam and then slip a NEW ridge beam in under the existing ridge beam.

Can you remove purlins?

– PURLINS When you remove the old purlins (or their struts), bang goes their support! Adding new steel or manufactured timber purlins is one way of compensating. – RIDGE Normally required to support large dormer flat roof joists and to strengthen the existing ridge.

Are ceiling joists load bearing?

Walls that run perpendicular (at a 90 degree angle) to the ceiling joists are load-bearing. Walls that run parallel (in the same direction) as the ceiling joints are non load-bearing. Ceiling joists are spliced over the wall.

Are ceiling joists necessary?





They prevent the roof from flattening, and they’re pretty much usually required unless the structure is engineered so the outward thrust is taken into account some other way. For example some cathedral ceilings are made to be stable without rafter ties.

Do you always need steels for a loft conversion?

Steel beams are the most popular choice for most loft conversions, however, they’re not the only option. Due to regulations, build size, style and budget, some choose to complete their loft conversion using an alternative material.

Can you remove attic trusses?

The truss webs would need to be removed in order to provide the necessary clear space for your attic remodel. Unfortunately, this can’t be done … at least in an affordable manner. If you have roof trusses, you will probably want to ditch the attic remodel and look at other options.

How do you strengthen a loft floor?

If the attic joists are not adequate, one way to strengthen the floor for live loads is to sister the old joists. Sistering is the process of adding a new joist next to each existing joist. In the case of 2 x 6 joists, you can pair them up with additional 2 x 6 joists by nailing them together, side by side.

Are loft joists load bearing?



Lofts weren’t really built as load bearing rooms – or certainly not built strong enough to inhabit – so if you’re looking to house anything heavier than a few bags of old clothes and seasonal items, you’ll need to strengthen your loft.

How much weight can loft joists take?

Typically the joists in a loft will support about 40kg/m2 of weight so providing you’re storing less than this you won’t need to do any additional work to strengthen the joists.