Building Homes or Extensions/timber frame roof system

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Expert: - 11/19/2008


Question
Our modular home has 2 X 6 exterior studs 16" on center. Is that sufficient to place a timber frame truss system? The foundation is concrete block with a sill plate.

Answer
Dear Mary Ellen,

The 2x6 wall is plenty strong for a timber frame roof truss system, as long as you have trusses no more than eight feet apart. Try to line up the trusses directly over a stud, and avoid placing trusses over windows, if you can.

The foundation sounds fine.

Daniel

Building Homes or Extensions

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Volunteer

Daniel Humphrey

Expertise

I can answer questions about designing and building homes and outbuildings, especially for colder climates. I am expert in timber framing, but of course I also know about other kinds of residential construction techniques and materials. Because of my emphasis on using local materials and organic alternatives, I know quite about about Green Building and am willing to do the research to find out more.

Experience

I've been a timber framer for 20 years, working as a general contractor who designs and builds custom timberframe homes, working as much as possible with local organic materials, from foundation to finish. I also have expertise in designing, building, and setting up pre-fab remote camp facilities on terra firma or temperate glaciers for research and expeditions, using helicopters for support.

Education/Credentials
B.A., M.F.A.

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