HELP with changes to roof space in converted house

[isteve]

Hi,

I live in a converted house, top floor flat, with access to the loft space.

I'm currently decorating the back bedroom, and would like some advice on what I'm planning with the 'eaves' area of the room that I'd like to make use of.

I've attached some photos to make this easier to explain!

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//media.diynot.com/186000_185348_44194_78542799_thumb.jpg

//media.diynot.com/186000_185348_44195_69795311_thumb.jpg

Essentially - I'd like to make use of the area in the eaves, possibly by creating a storage space. It's quite a large area, so I think this would be beneficial.

My main question is - are the vertical beams 'supporting', or are they purely there to create the wall that I'm half way through knocking down?! In which case - can I remove them? and if not - can I build a horizontal beam that supports 2 of them to give me a larger gap?

Also - I presume I'll need to insulate the space between the tiles and plasterboard I'm putting up?! (50mm gap etc etc).

Thanks in Advance.

Untitled

• isteve
• 24 Mar 2012
• 1

 

[tim00]

The "vertical beams" are studs. Take some pics of where they go to, and research

how a stud wall is constructed. They might be below a large beam, a purlin, or directly support the roof rafters. Also, investigate and pic if possible, what the stud wall is sitting on.

Typically, you can do what you propose but perhaps will have to double up the studs on either side of your opening.

 

[isteve]

Hi Tim, Thanks for your reply.

I've attached some more photos, hopefully this will make it clearer.

Appreciate if you could tell me whether you think the studs are even needed or not. The rafters are currently supported at the bottom (you can see in the pic), and also in the loft by the beams.

 

[tim00]

No problem with your proposition. The studding is merely backing for the plaster lath wall (s ). It is not structural.

FWIW: at some stage you should think about getting a new roof covering ( or re-covering ) with a vapour barrier over, and insulation, between the rafters.
There's not much point in insulating the accessible joist bays in you proposed storage area. Simply chipboard over.