Removing old ceiling under second story addition
25 years ago we had a second story addition on top of the original 800 sq ft flat roof house. They essentially framed the second story right over the top without taking out the ceiling and the original roof framing. I want to take out all the original ceiling and framing so I can add height to the first floor which is only 7’8″. It seems to me that the new 2nd floor framing is a few inches above the original, wasted space.( I don’t know why we didn’t knock it out to begin with except to save money maybe) Can I just rip it all out myself without affecting any structural issues. I know the ductwork sits on the bottom but I can get around that since it has to be replaced anyway. In the hallway by the stairs they finished the first floor ceiling up to the new second floor framing, so that the first floor ceiling is high there. Can I do it???
Replies
Lisa
You can do it probably.
However, there are structural issues to deal with, along with other services which might be within that original ceiling/roof. Plumbing/Electric for example..
The structural pretty much boils down to what the new floor walls and roof sit on and how that load would be affected by removing the old ceiling/floor framing.
You'll need to open it up to see what's within and then take a look at what bears on it above b/4 you can figure how to safely and structurally remove what you don't need.
If the perimeter walls sit on the ceiling/roof framing, you'd have to support your 2nd floor walls and the new floor joists b/4 you cut out anything. Same goes for any mid span bearing points.
If by chance they cut away or built through the old framework so all bearing for the addition is sitting on the perimeter walls (mid span and point loads also), then you might get lucky with the amount of work needed.................
Best of luck.
Removing old ceiling under second story addition
Thank you for your quick reply. I am almost positive the new floor was built into the perimeter walls. However I heard that the old roof might be providing rigidity to the building in the event of an earthquake (California). I'll take a look and see. Thanks again
Lisa
I'm from NW Oh, we don't have hurricanes or earthquakes to worry about. That engineering and regulations are not part of my portfolio. Please consult someone with that expertise.
And the best of luck!