I’ve got a problem. I just found out I have limited access to the second of 2 skylight towers from inside a Cape Cod attic. I need to cut a roof rafter (6″ actual joists) to gain access in order to insulate the far tower and do some bathroom ventilation work. The roof rafters are on original roof section of house, and tie into a family room/bathroom addition roof that runs perpendicular. The contractor who built this addition cut 2 original roof rafters and added a header in front of the first skylight, for a total spacing now of 48″ O.C. However, I only have about a 10″w X 20″h access opening to the area that needs work….so I must find a way of gaining access, which i might as well try to make permanent.
My question is, how can I determine whether I can cut out one more roof rafter, for a total of 65″ spacing between rafters? Obviously, I will need to build a new header. I could also look at adding some vertical supports down to the attic floor (joists), but need some advice. Sure wish the original contractor and inspector got this right.
Thanks.
Edited 11/3/2009 4:27 pm ET by Bill from Glenville
Replies
My question for you is how is 48" not enough ?
Pictures with descriptions would help us understand your question.
Okay, here are some pics that will help.
1. 043b - overall view from rt. of skylight #1 and existing header with two roof rafters cut.
2. 046 - Left side of skylight 'box'. Roff rafter to be removed in view. Existing header on upper rt.
3. 048 - straight on view of framing
4. 056 - limited access to crawl space above addition. Size is too small for a person to crawl through. I need to get in here to insulate area properly and work on bath fan ventilation.
5. 057 - view slightly above access opening and potential roof rafter to be removed. This view shows roof rafter angle in addition (combo bath and family room)
6. 066 - here's the goal: area above bath, around skylight #2 and family room walls that need insulation.
Here's how not to frame a remodel.
Thanks.
Bill
Are you saying you want to remove a rafter to have access?
Where do you live?
Yes, I'd like to remove about 4' of the roof rafter to the left of skylight #1. I would box out to the next rafter to the left with a long header (65" or so) ...eliminating/replacing the existing 48" header. I live in upstate NY.
I think you are going to be in a world of hurt if you do that.
I would if at all possible access another way. I would take the skylight shaft apart, before I cut another rafter.
Glenville your town?
You don't live that far from me, if it is.
Edited 11/3/2009 9:43 pm ET by frammer52
Go on the roof and open it up through the plwood/shingles.