How To Remove A Roof Truss

This is sometimes done by a homeowner to provide cleared space in the attic for storage but destroys the structural integrity of the truss.

How to remove a roof truss.

The first step when removing a wood roof truss is to disassemble the existing roof that is causing a load upon the truss. Making any adjustments to your trusses without adequate supports in place can cause huge problems. Once you cut out the roof trusses the load bearing will shift to your new supports. If the roof slope is steeper than 9 inches in 12 inches of run it doesn t take much width to end up with a nice room 12 feet wide with an 8 foot ceiling.

The new section of timber is now put in place with the threaded steel bars sitting in the slot. Remove the damaged connector plate and replace it even if it is only missing a few teeth. Often the height of the roof may be too low when constructed with truss rafters which means that it may need to be raised too. I have this above my own garage.

This can easily be accomplished by using a hammer and a crowbar. If a lot of trusses are damaged or one has been significantly modified or cut then consulting a engineer is wise. Look at this photo of the space created by attic trusses at my home. When a truss becomes damaged cut or modified there is a chance of a structural overload or that they will not perform properly.

Let the repaired wood truss set for 24 hours in dry conditions to secure the repair. A truss frame will occupy the majority of the space within the loft which means that the whole structure needs replacing if you decide to convert your attic. Run a support header underneath the ridge of your roof an engineer will be able to find the correct type and size for you. Refill the holes in the wood truss with wood adhesive and apply a wood scab to patch it.

These trusses are usually engineered by a structural engineering company to carry a specific roof load. 2 truss chords have been removed. To do this you will need to cut a slot into the existing truss rafter or joist in a u shape to the required length of the threaded steel bars in the new section of timber. Slot cut out in existing timber.

Use a circular saw to cut the 2 by 4s along these lines. Remove the existing roof. This may well require planning permission. Fit the first resulting brace inside the truss at the point you marked on the lower cord with the flat bottom end on top of the lower cord and the angled edge against the bottom of the upper cord or rafter.