Home Remodel

[Pulpboy]

I plan to remodel my house next year and I would like to do the calculations myself. Basically I want to knock out a load bearing wall (Larger than the typical opening) and raise the roof on an addition so that I have one continuous room. (kitchen / Dining / Entertaining) Since I'm only a broke mechanical engineer I figured I'd try and learn about structural analysis and save some money - worst case i learn a few things and I hire a structural engineer anyways. I would like to know what books / resources there are especially when considering headers / loading etc. The problem is that my header beam will have to be into the roof system to have a flat ceiling so connections will be on the side of the beam.

Anything you recommend would be appreciated. I have 6 months to come up with a design... I figured I can do it by then.. maybe.

 

[SlideRuleEra]

Here is one reference to get you started, "Residential Structural Design Guide: 2000 Edition" (free .pdf download)

http://www.pathnet.org/sp.asp?id=1442

The entire book will be useful to you, but be sure to see page 5-36

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

 

[JAE]

You really ought to change your handle to "SlideReferenceEra".

 

[IFRs]

I'd get the National Design Specification for Wood COnstruction ASD/LRFD if you really want to get into wood design. Published by the American Forest and Paper Association. good stuff!

 

[SlideRuleEra]

JAE - What an idea! Maybe just a slight addition to my "signature" instead - see below

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

 

[JAE]

Quite elegant!