How do I fix a cracked joist in attic?
by
Lou
+16
Looking for some advice on the best way to fix this split and sagging joist in my attic. Here's my relatively uneducated plan to fix it but not sure if i'm going about it wrong.
- I do not have a jack to get it level so I'll cut some wood I have lying around to size so that I can prop it up and get it level.
- Cut two, 4 foot long 2x4's to sister on each side of the joist. The joist is, by my measurements, 1.5" x 3.5". Are 2x4's the appropriate material to sister on there?
- Use construction adhesive and C clamps to sister 2x4's in place. Let dry.
- Using 1/2" machine screws, nuts, and washers, drill 5 side of dice pattern at each end and screw it all together.
Thoughts?
I think you need to talk to a structural engineer....What you plan on doing looks like it would work (but what do I know) but seems like the joist itself needs to be beefed up.
Sistering the joist is your best repair option but you can buy a bottle jack to simplify the process. They are are not very expensive. Try harbor freight
See if these help you.
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/discussions/topic/cracked-roof-rafter-repair
https://youtu.be/rfQR69aEGME
https://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-repair-a-roof-joist
I second Pat's recommendation. There are some things that you just don't want to tackle completely by yourself. I'd check with an engineer before doing anything.
Lou....Yes...by all means..listen to Beth! You do not want to cause or be involved in a misfortunate accident.
Hi Lou,
I agree with the others. You don't want to take a chance that there is a problem that caused this to happen that could cause a serious injury to your and/or your family. If this board didn't have a defect there may be something in the actual structure that made it happen. Hire a professional to at least make sure the house is structurally sound. Wishing you the best.
I would contact a professional before you do anything. Your insurance might cover repair.
Definitely contact a professional for a big job like this!
Naomie's got it. That is a collar to prevent roof cave in from weight or uplift from wind. It cracked right at a knot from stress. You have the right idea. You can sister 2X4's on each side. 4' length will work. Or you may choose just to replace it with new 2X4.
I showed your picture to my hubby of 40+ years, carpenter 45 yrs says your fix will work just fine, & that has prob been like that for a long time. Good luck, Happy New Year!
Please contact an engineer or project manager to get this done professionally. It is holding up your roof and you certainly do not want it to collapse.
Oh my, please call a pro ASAP for this. While you could do this yourself, if you cause further damage or your repair fails, you’ll be in more trouble than it’s worth. Further, it’s important to find out why this happened and resolve that in a proper, professional manner.
Thanks for all the help everyone! Gave me some peace of mind that I was on the right track. Got after it myself and it was indeed an easy fix.