How To Build A Vaulted Ceiling Roof

To avoid these problems in a structure with a cathedral ceiling it helps to understand how a typical roof frame works.

How to build a vaulted ceiling roof.

Another possible way to renovate a flat ceiling into a vaulted ceiling is by adding lumber to the existing roof rafters to make them deep enough to accommodate the appropriate insulation. A plain flat ceiling gable is actually a procession of light trusses usually spaced 16 in. These horizontal framing members tie a building s outer walls together and resist the outward force exerted by the roof rafters in conventional framing. If your house has low ceilings building vaulted ceilings may be the answer.

This also allows you to save on lumber by using 2. Nick noyes architecture cesar rubio photography. If you decide to construct a vaulted ceiling check with your local office regarding building permits and consult with an experienced structural engineer to ensure safety. For example spray foam insulation helps create an air tight seal that eliminates the need for ridge and soffit venting.

Contributing editor scott mcbride replies. If your home is a modest size single story tract home with standard 8 foot ceilings it s an ideal candidate for vaulting a ceiling. A dramatic cathedral ceiling makes a strong statement in a home s interior but make sure to follow the best practices to eliminate mold and wood rot while also saving money on lumber and materials. If the roof was built with traditional rafter and joist construction the ceiling joists.

Without joists the walls can bow outward and the roof ridge line may sag. A professional carpenter may be able to apply this method to your existing flat ceiling to convert it to a vaulted ceiling. Finally traditional fiberglass insulation works well in cathedral ceilings although a 2 inch breathing space between the insulation and the roof sheathing must be included. The simplest way to get a vaulted ceiling is by setting vaulted roof trusses.

To convert a truss roof to a vaulted ceiling you may need to do significant reconstruction of the roof. Vaulted ceilings can be constructed by either stick framing which means attaching each joist and rafter individually or by setting roof trusses that come engineered from a truss manufacturer.