Expert: Dan Griffin - 1/6/2009

Question
I am wondering if once a house has been stick built can a framer go in and change the structure of the trusses without removing the roof to allow for an open area in the center for a bonus room.  The area I am thinking of is above a garage and has the head room.

Answer
I'm a bit lost.  "Stick built" implies a cut roof, not trusses.  All things are possible, A cut roof can be carried by a structural ridge and trusses can be reworked.  The existing roof system wa designed to carry the weight of drywall only with perhaps some minimal stroage, a room will require 30 to 40 pound live load depending on code in our area.  Either circumstance will require the services of a atructural engineer or a very knowledgeable builder.  If the work will require a building permit, I'm sure they will require an engineer's stamp.  A typical framer does not have the knowledge necesssary to execute the work in a structurally sound manner.  Removing the roof to go to trusses designed for the floor loads in the new room with head clearance and stairs may still be the most economical approach.