Repositioning roof support (Attic Bedroom)

[cujo]

Hi

I have recently purchased a circa 1954 semi-detached cottage. There is a bedroom in the attic space which I'd like to know if I can reposition the supports on one side of the room. At the moment there is unused storage either side of the dormer and on the opposite side of the room which I'd like to convert into cupboard storage. I'd like to if possible relocate the supports as suggested in the attached image. Given that the roofing is tile I'm conscious of weight and distribution, hence the appropriate positioning of the support where they currently are. If necessary I'm happy to get an engineer in for advise and whether this is a DIY job.

I have scoured the forum but cannot see any similar threads so any advise is appreciated.

thanks
nic

[redheeler]

Hi nic

From what I can gather, the supports you are referring to are known as jack studs or purlins, and hold up the long rafters in your roof. These are held up by means of struts. The struts are positioned on convenient walls. You probably knew that anyway. In any case I would consult an engineer. If you frequent second -hand bookshops, keep a look out for a book "The Australian Carpenter", (Macmillan & Co) a text book used by building apprentices in the 50's and 60's. It's a great resource and shows how your house was built from the ground up. All the best

Redheeler

[joe greiner]

You'll be increasing the span length of the rafters, so an engineer should be consulted. At worst, you may need to attach side planks to reinforce the rafters. This will require replacing the ceiling material. The reinforcing, if any is needed, should be attached, as well as the new studs, before removing the existing studs. The rafters could also be reinforced by attaching a thin steel strip to the bottom, which could entail less ceiling re-work. It's possible, but unlikely, that the rafters are adequate as is, even with a slight sag owing to the increased span.

Joe

[DvdHntr]

You will need engineering advice. My thoughts are that adding a second rafter nailed to the original would be adequate.

[cujo]

The area that I'll be gaining access to currently exposes all the rafters and stud. So initially I was wanting to insulate the roof area before putting in a ceiling.

All your comments have been useful, so I'll consult an engineer re repositioning of the studs.