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Expert: - 5/11/2009


Question
I live in a 14' wide brick rowhome and I'm adding a rooftop deck.  I'll need to add additional ceiling joists at each end of the staircase opening.  Question - how can I attach the end of each new ceiling joist to an existing brick wall, party wall (where the existing joist are in pockets in the brick)?  

Remove the bricks on each side of the existing joist pockets, insert the new ceiling joists (one on each side of the existing joist) and then lag bolt all of the sistering joists together?

Thanks!

Answer
Hello Mike

You have two choices - as you wrote, removing enough bricks to allow you to add another joist or---

your lumber yard or warehouse type dealer will have "Joist Hangers" which can be anchored directly to the brick using a power accuated nail.  

Frankly I prefer your suggestion.  The brick is probably old and may break apart when trying to nail into the partywall.  Removing bricks will be a little delicate.  Don't go completely through the wall.  I assume since it is a bearing party wall that it is at least 8" thick.  You should have about 4" bearing for the joists.  

If your openings coincide with joists openings in the adjacent townhome, you should provide a fire-stop between the two joists.

Sounds like an excellent project and addition to your home.

I hope this has been helpful.

Roger

Construction Industry

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Roger Zona

Expertise

I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.

Experience

After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.

Organizations
Previously - NAHA Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)

Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column

Education/Credentials
Michigan State University University of Detroit BS in Engineering

Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family. I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit. I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision. I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.

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