I'm looking to vault some of the ceilings in my house, which currently have 8 ft heights, particularly over an area of about 600 sq ft. I'd love to lift them by around 2 ft. Is it possible to achieve this without a complete roof overhaul? What methods are commonly used, like adding bracing on the rafters and adjusting the rafter ties? I'm also curious about the rough cost for this kind of project, as I'm located in the Pacific Northwest, and I've seen estimates ranging from 20k to 60k. Anyone have experience with this?
3 Answers
It really hinges on whether your home features pre-fab trusses or was stick framed. This will affect the approach significantly in terms of stability and what methods can be applied.
Vaulting ceilings can be tricky and really depends on your current roof structure. The typical route would be to remove your entire roof system, including trusses or rafters, and then put in new trusses that reflect the vaulted style you want. Just a heads-up, this could get really pricey based on your home size, layout, and location. My neighbor went through this, and it was no small expense!
Considering your roof's framework is important here. Even if it’s either pre-engineered trusses or a stick frame, the design can get complicated. It might be wise to consult a structural engineer to plan this out. Though it could cost around 10k for their services, you might find options to negotiate since some engineers are looking for work post-COVID. After you have the plan, a good general contractor can provide estimates, often without needing full designs.
Thanks for the insight! Sounds like it might end up being more costly than I anticipated, especially with all the changes since COVID.
Definitely worth getting estimates! Engineers and contractors can help you figure out if you can make it fit your budget.