Browse Forums Renovation + Home Improvement 1 Aug 08, 2011 9:21 pm Hi folks When we bought this house it had an extension out the back (newly done - last year). But instead of giving it a pitched roof and making it part of the current tiled roof, they just put on a flat tin roof. (Looks OK actually). But anyway.... we are thinking of building up (second storey) sometime in the next few years. Is there any reason why we should assume that we couldn't build over (on top of) this flat roofed extension?? I mean, just because he did a flat roof, doesn't make it less suitable/stable for a story on top - does it?? Of course, I know I need to get everything properly checked out, but I am imagining the only difference is that it doesn't have a pitched tiled roof (which would end up coming off if we did build up anyway). Can anyone shed any light if these kind of 'flat roofed' extensions make them less suitable for adding second storey?? I'm just starting to mull over layouts and designs and would help if I knew to 'avoid' thinking about building above our current extension (hoping that isn't the case). HHCIB Re: Flat roof extension - can be we build 2nd story on top?? 3Aug 09, 2011 10:24 am It will all come down to how much strength is in the frame. Re: Flat roof extension - can be we build 2nd story on top?? 4Aug 09, 2011 8:56 pm Thanks gusy.... but, how do we know if it's "built solidly" or "enough strength in the frame"? Re: Flat roof extension - can be we build 2nd story on top?? 5Aug 09, 2011 9:28 pm Should post a picture ? Your flatish roof is called a Skillion roof. Anything that goes up needs the right support underneath. Frames can be beefed up ECT.... Beams can span distances, it all depends how big your extension will be. Re: Flat roof extension - can be we build 2nd story on top?? 6Aug 10, 2011 2:48 pm Since its a new extension you should be able to contact the inspector who signed off or get the plans and see what the specs are. Re: Flat roof extension - can be we build 2nd story on top?? 7Aug 12, 2011 8:26 pm Ok thanks Chrisandkate. I'll try calling the building surveyor and see if they can confirm. HHCIB Re: Flat roof extension - can be we build 2nd story on top?? 8Jul 13, 2012 5:16 pm If you can obtain the working drawings that were used in the building permit, you can determine the strength of the structure. Your biggest challenge will be that the roof trusses might be spaced at 600mm to save costs, which is too wide for floors (depends on what they used for the roof trusses). They built a roof, not a floor, and probably worked to a budget. So you may have to beef up any lintels that span over windows / openings, and the roof trusses which will become floor joists. Timber framed walls without openings are usually the same design and strength for single and double storey. I'm currently building a new house, and my roof trusses are spaced ready to take an extra floor if I ever need. A talking dog, don't worry what it's saying, it's amazing it can even speak. Re: Flat roof extension - can be we build 2nd story on top?? 9Jul 13, 2012 10:49 pm I havev2 big steel beams under part of my skillion roof that spans the lounge room. It's engineered for a 2nd story. So it's possible. Best get a structural engineer out to have a look. Hi, We have a single story MacDonald Jones house, on a waffle pod slab with steel frame. Are we able to build a second story extension? Other info is we are 900mm from… 0 8478 Any advice on how to ensure the kit home granny flat that im thinking of buying will get council approval. The kit home companys wont release plans without a deposit and… 0 7222 hi guys. Please be nice. First time home builder in Qld. I would like some feedback please on whether I should build my granny flat first before my main house at the… 0 4589 |