[Dangel33]

Hey,

So I have a 1930 house 2 story with basement. Before I wasted my time with a structural engineer I wanted to see if vaulting my ceiling was even feasible. I know there are some easy signs that would prevent it. (yes I know anything is possible if you are willing to pay but I'm not replacing a roof). I only plan on vaulting the master bedroom partially. so it would look like a triangle with the top sliced off. Is there anything thats a major red flag?

From what i've research this isn't asbestos insulation either, its yellow and has a silver lining paper?

Thanks!

 

[joecaption]

What's to keep the walls from spreading once the joist are removed?
Cathedral ceiling look neat but there a nightmare to insulate.
And all the heat rises and gets trap at the peak and the room stays colder.

 

[BigJim]

There are a couple of ways to build a vaulted ceiling, either install a beam at the ridge to hold all the rafters up and in place or tie the walls together to keep from spreading. From what I see, it would be easier to install new rafters from inside, without disturbing the original roof, tie the walls together with a series of beams and cables or just beams at plate level.

By installing new rafters, from below, you could leave room above them to insulate better.

JMHO, I, don't like a vault for the reason Joe stated above, they are hard to heat and cool.

 

[Bud9051]

Hi d33,
Google "a tray ceiling". Not as dramatic as a vaulted ceiling yet can really change the atmosphere in a room. May also be easier to construct.

Bud

 

[Daniel Holzman]

Yes you can vault the ceiling, however you will need a careful design to handle the thrust forces on the walls. The usual methods are installation of a ridge beam (already mentioned in this thread), or installation of roof trusses (this would require a whole new roof, which you indicated was not a financially viable option for you). The other option mentioned, which would include installation of ceiling joists to hold the walls together, is not a traditional vaulted ceiling, more of a standard installation without the floor, so may not meet your aesthetic program.