Other stories by Christopher DeBlois

• Nailing Patterns for Built-Up Beams

  Q: What’s the best nailing pattern for built-up beams?

• Horizontal vs. Vertical Sheathing

  Q: I’ve always heard that installing plywood sheathing horizontally (perpendicular to the direction of the studs), with joints staggered, is stronger than installing it vertically. True? Is this true of roof sheathing too?

• Deflection of Plywood vs. OSB

  Q: Does OSB sag more than plywood when installed horizontally over 24-inch-center rafters?

• Plywood in Built-Up Headers

  Q: Do the layers of plywood in typical built-up headers add significant strength to the header?

• Q&A: When to Double Rafters at Openings

  Q: When you remove one rafter to install a skylight, do you have to double the two rafters at the sides of the opening? What about the headers?

• Q&A: Purpose of T&G Plywood

  Q: Does tongue-and-groove plywood add extra strength or stiffness to a floor system, or does it just help prevent floor squeaks?

• Q&A: Splices in Built-Up Beams

  Q: Is it necessary to place splices in built-up lumber beams directly above the support posts?

• Q&A: Strength of PT Lumber

  Q: Does CCA pressure treatment adversely affect the strength or durability of framing lumber?

• Q&A: Weight of Steel vs. Lumber Beams

  Q: For the same loads, which is heavier, structural steel beams or lumber beams?

• Q&A: Rafter Thrust in a Shed Roof

  Q: Does a cathedral shed roof addition need collar ties to restrain the outward thrust of the rafters?