Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Removing Collar Ties

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