Add apt above garage
#1
12-02-04, 12:06 PM
Add apt above garage
I have a 20'x25' detached garage I had thought about raising the roof & adding a second floor. The existing attic/roof is trusses spaced 16" and the garage walls are 16" spaced wood studs. My question is this... What kind of nightmare would it be to add living space? I would think the 1st floor walls would support a second floor but might there be foundation issues with the additional weight? I know I need to get a contractor out for definitive answers but if anybody has experience in this type of thing and can tell me some things to look out for I would appreciate it.
Last edited by pkkell0; 12-02-04 at 12:07 PM. Reason: clarification
#3
12-02-04, 07:27 PM
This type of remodel is commonly done, but it is usually a major job.
Some issues:
foundation
the overhead structure of the present garage almost definitely is NOT rated for floor loads
any wall/ceiling between garage and living space must be built to firecode
the diagonal bracing for the garage is probably less than code requires for the lower level of a 2 story structure, especially if you live in earthquake or hurricane territory
Some issues:
foundation
the overhead structure of the present garage almost definitely is NOT rated for floor loads
any wall/ceiling between garage and living space must be built to firecode
the diagonal bracing for the garage is probably less than code requires for the lower level of a 2 story structure, especially if you live in earthquake or hurricane territory
