[SG45]

This question is easy to answer for an experienced framer but difficult to filter and search. I am trying to convert the unfinished walkin space behind our master closet (upstairs) to a cedar closet for winter clothes storage.

Is it safe to remove these 2x4 support braces? Our house is wood framed but completely bricked. If it is not a good idea to leave these side walls unbraced, can you kindly recommend a replacement brace that doesn't require stepping over to use the closet effectively?

Thanks very much in advance for your answers!

(Sorry if the attachment appears sideways, pic is not like that on my computer!)

 

[ddawg16]

NO, do not remove those.

 

[jlhaslip]

NO, do not remove those.

NO, do not remove those without consulting with an experienced Framer or Engineer following their on-site visit.

There. Fixed it for you.

To the OP: Always assume that framing members are structural until someone with knowledge says otherwise.

 

[ront02769]

POSSIBLY remove those braces.....basically because we can only see one end....and while that end looks structural, it is possible that the OTher ends are just holding that plywood closet wall. So, what do the other ends attach to?

 

[lenaitch]

POSSIBLY remove those braces.....basically because we can only see one end....and while that end looks structural, it is possible that the OTher ends are just holding that plywood closet wall. So, what do the other ends attach to?

That's the floor. Pic is sideways.

 

[KPDMinc]

appears the 2x4s are just slivers of what used to be a 'whole' 2x4...?

 

[sixeightten]

I think those likely can come out. Hard to tel without being there, but they look like scraps used for temporary bracing.

 

[Gary in WA]

------------Welcome to the forums!-----------------------------

Maybe, maybe not.... IF the ceiling ties (horizontal "rafter" ties) in the room are below the 1/3 limit required by Code; http://myconco.com/ComEngProb.html

IF the ceiling joists are above the 1/3 (which I doubt), then you need a ridge "beam" rather than a ridge "board". Because they are of scrap wood, they appear temporary for the lining of wall for straight.

Is there a ridge beam or board? Measure the height of each to see if in lower 1/3; 1. height of knee wall
2. height of ceiling in room
3. height to bottom of rafter at peak------- see diagram;

http://countryplans.com/smf/index.p...b9192e7af1a3c&topic=11261.msg164940#msg164940

Gary

 

[carpdad]

Yourself call it support. Intuitively they LOOK like they support the roof. Then you leave it alone or must have a carpenter or engineer look at it on site. Garyinwa gave you as specific as possible but the rules he goes by assumes it was built by the rules.

 

[ront02769]

That's the floor. Pic is sideways.

THAT would be why I had such a hard time figuring it out!!

 

[ront02769]

Yourself call it support. Intuitively they LOOK like they support the roof. Then you leave it alone or must have a carpenter or engineer look at it on site. Garyinwa gave you as specific as possible but the rules he goes by assumes it was built by the rules.

Same problem as me?? That's what I thought until I caught onto the picture is sideways deal...in which case likely that knee wall supports the roof.

 

[beenthere]

Rotated pic.