This is probably beyond my diy abilities, but how do loft conversion
companies strengthen up the loft space when they remove the bracing struts
from prefabricated roof joists - those zig zag lengths of wood which get in
the way of turning it into a room. Can it be done without taking the tiles
off?

"Andrew Vevers" <http://www.environmentalconsultants.co.uk> wrote in message 
news:434bc07d$0$17364$cc9e4d1f@news.dial.pipex.com...

> This is probably beyond my diy abilities, but how do loft conversion
> companies strengthen up the loft space when they remove the bracing struts
> from prefabricated roof joists - those zig zag lengths of wood which get 
> in
> the way of turning it into a room. Can it be done without taking the tiles
> off?
>

I would think it unlikely that a reputable loft company would hack about a 
trussed rafter roof (a cowboy would, and do!). Trussed rafters, as I'm sure 
you have worked out, are generally made of small section timber and rely for 
their strength on load sharing between the various members. Take the 
internal bracing away, they would flop about and the roof collapse. On top 
of that the ceiling ties would be of indequate section to become floor 
joists. If you want to do a loft conversion, then the only way would be 
replace the roof either with new room-in-roof trusses or a built on site cut 
rafter roof and new floor joists. If you are considering this, I would 
strongly advise obtaining professional architectural and engineering advice 
(not from a loft company).

Bob H

Many thanks Bob. As suspected, but it would be nice to create a bit of
storage space up there. Thanks also for data on water tanks.

Andrew

"Andrew Vevers" <http://www.environmentalconsultants.co.uk> wrote in message
news:434e3199$0$17367$cc9e4d1f@news.dial.pipex.com...

> Many thanks Bob. As suspected, but it would be nice to create a bit of
> storage space up there. Thanks also for data on water tanks.
>
> Andrew
>
>


Incidentally, I'm told by a builder that for only 2000 extra cost when
being originally built, you can have a proper open-spaced loft which can be
converted later at much cheaper cost.