With the downturn in new
construction, we're getting
into a lot of remodeling jobs.
One type of project that comes up
again and again is the conversion
of the attic space into a real room.
Inevitably, the space is full of collar
ties. Should we raise them a couple
of feet, the way the owner wants?
Or cut them away altogether? We
may alter them and give our client
a big confident smile, but later we
begin to worry.
What Do Collar Ties Do,
Anyway?
Collar ties are peculiar items.
Their job is pretty simple but their
loading can be deceptively large.
Basically, they keep the rafters
from spreading. Just that. Unlike
trusses, collar ties do not stiffen
rafters or help