Expert: jonewall - 9/8/2010

Question
We have an existing 11'x12' room in a warehouse and we would like to raise the roof a foot or so and store up to 2 pallets each weighing 3,000lbs.  What size all studs and what size floor joists would we require?  Also is there a specific formula to determine a ceiling's weight bearing capacity?

Answer
 Matthew
1.We have an existing 11'x12' room in a warehouse and we would like to raise the roof a foot or so
Not having all the facts and details
Raising an existing roof is a major type of project.How much to raise the roof needs to be considered .
If you decide to raise the roof- patching and repairs to the existing roof is very important to properly making a seal to existing areas.type of roof ????? and construction ??????

2.Have an existing 11'x12' room in a warehouse and we would like to raise the roof a foot or so and store up to 2 pallets each weighing 3,000lbs

The size of the pallets should be know as to clear the existing lower roof in placing the pallets on the new deck.or consideration to opening up the roof area to accommodate the loaded top of the pallets. meaning deck 11'x12'   opening roof may have to open 4' or more to accommodate placing the pallets

3.Specific formula to determine a ceiling's weight bearing capacity?
yes there is a formula figured weight per square foot related to the size and spacing of the floor joist.

Unless you can justify the cost of raising the roof
it sounds like you need floor space and that is the reason to install a deck?
Consider a closed outside storage unit that you can rent  rather then the cost of a deck and roof project.
Good luck on your project

je