Storage in double garage roof space

[BarneyL]

I've got an open plan double garage approx 5m across by 5m deep and want to create some storage up in the roof. The existing roof support doesn't look like it could take much more weight, and I'm not convinced I want to test it out I'm particularly anxious about the large 5m garage width span.

I'm thinking of boarding out about a quarter of the roof space (2.5 metres by 2.5 metres) and am wondering about building a frame for boards to rest on above the existing roof joists. I presume I'd then need one or more vertical support posts bolted into the garage floor to rest this frame on where it is away from the walls?

Thoughts please? Is this a good idea? How have others created storage in a double garage?

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Got a photo of the existing structure? What do you want to store up there?

 

[mattylad]

If you do not think the joists will take extra weight then perhaps you need to strengthen them with more stronger joists bolted to the side of the existing ones, supported at the ends using joist brackets etc.

Space is a premium and having a storage location for the xmas decorations, the tree, those old nick nacks you don't want to throw or a kayak etc. make this a worthwhil project IMO.

 

[domdee]

You could put a steel beam in there to avoid using a post/pillar that would take up space down below.

You'd need a strong wall or extra buttressing to support the steel