Attaching Wood to Rafters for Overhead Storage

[ideal2545]

Hi Everyone,

So I'm looking to do overhead storage in my garage soon and I've already collected alot of information from the forums, I've just got a couple of last questions.

I'm a little confused about the best way to attach the stringers (hanging 2x4's running perpendicular) to the rafters. Would it make sense to run them to the side of the rafters, drill holes and then use nuts and bolts. Or would it make more sense to use some framing plates (Gussets?) and attach them straight to the bottom of the rafters?

Here some pics of my garage roof/ceiling: Based on previous discussion I'm sure its a ridge-beam constructed roof.
http://imgur.com/a/0KzLn#0

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Jon

 

[pattenp]

I'd lean more to the gussets. Boring holes for bolts will weaken the rafter more than a few nails for the gusset. Either way be mindful of the weight that will be hanging and that it could compromise the roof structure.

 

[67carl]

I can't tell from your pictures how wide the space is you have to span. When I wanted to add an attic to my open garage my contractor recommended 2 x 8s nailed to the side of the top plates of the walls. I wanted more ceiling height so I put them on top of the top plate. You may be able to do one or the other, but I'm not an expert so maybe someone with more expertise will chime in. You may want to post better pictures, such as a wider view so we can see the whole structure. The pic below is when I started...

 

[ideal2545]

The garage is a typical two car garage, I would estimate the length from the wall where the garage door opens to the ridgebeam, its probably 10 feet and to the other wall on the other side of the ridgebeam, another 10 feet. I would say the entire garage is probably 20x20 (rough estimate).

If you guys think that the gussets would be the way to go, is there any particular style you would recommend? I've seen a few kinds, one where theres basically a whole bunch of spikes, and the other where it looks like screws or nails were there to help hold the joints together?

 

[pattenp]

Use Simpson TP tie plates........... http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/TP-TPA.asp?source=misccat