AboutPaul S. Brown, AIA Expertise How to work with an Architect. What to expect for design fees. What services are normally
included; what are not included? How do I find an Architect in my area? Why do I need an
Architect? How to be clear about your space needs. Why time must be managed properly.
Experience 24 years involvement in the practice of Architecture, including some teaching experience. Most of my work has been within the employment of various firms, but I have also done some small-scale projects on my own.
Particular interests include Environmental Design, "Green" Design, and Appropriate Technologies. LEED (TM) Accredited Professional.
I have some specific experience with Historic Preservation, Medical Facilities, Commercial Interiors, and Public School projects.
Education: Bachelor of Environmental Design Degree (Architecture), 1978, Miami University in Ohio. I am registered to practice professionally in the states of Massachusetts and Maine.
Question Paul,
I am expanding a roof deck that is built on a sloped 7/12 pitch roof. Currently, the deck is just a walkway (48") to a condo which is in the attic (with a 9ftx4ft deck area where the door is). I want to extend the walkway to a 9ftx12ft deck and I am planning on using the existing structure to support the new deck. I will support one new corner with a (new) 4x4 PT post, similar to the existing construction. I want to post up the other corner MIDSPAN, on a double 2x10 PT joist (existing), supported at both ends by 4x4 posts (8 ft simple span). Can I do this? I want to use as little posts as possible to limit breaches to the roof.
Thanks,
Mark
Answer Hi Mark:
It sounds like a nice enhancement to the property, and you sound like you know what you are doing. However, since you are asking the question, I must assume that you have some doubts about the ability of the planned configuration to carry the new load.
Part of the reason that Architects become architects, is that we tend to be 'visually oriented' people .... meaning we need drawings in order to understand things. Words are harder to understand and be accurate.
My suggestion is that you 1) have the local building inspector look at what you propose. If it seems to him/her like a 'no brainer' and they have no concerns about letting you proceed as planned, then that would be good enough for me, if it was my project. 2), if the inspector seems unsure, then I would go ahead and spend an extra few $ on a real opinion from a local structural engineer. It will be worth it to you, to sleep well at night not worrying about the load-carrying capacity of your new deck. The building inspector may know of someone, or a call to your local American Institute of Architects chapter should do the trick .... make sure they understand that you are looking for a structural engineer, and not an Architect. They should be able to provide a reference for someone who could come to your site, and do a sketch, and not go over about 4 hours of time.
Good Luck,
PB
