Do you have a picture of the rafters before the change? I have never thought of that, I have a shop almost just like yours that almost has enough room for a lift, but I would rather have a few more feet.
Thanks!
Ben
Hi Ben.
I'm sorry, but I don't have before pics. Hind sight I guess. When I had my garage built in 1981, I had it constructed out of rough cut lumber. I always pay for items if I can (don't want credit.) Then, the 36 x 30 garage with a 16 foot door, metal service door, concrete floor, and electricity service ran $6,000. Much better than brick or concrete as far as cost. I still have the same roof on it, but it will be replaced this spring or sooner if Santa don't hit me too hard.
The contractor said he hadn't seen a garage made like mine regarding rafters.
Instead of the typical triangle truss', mine had a long beam running up the middle. This beam was made up of several pieces of wood nailed together and wood was about 4 inches up each side running the length of the beam. It was shaped like a square u. He called it a "Hog Trough." Then ceiling joyces were connected to it from the sides. He also said, he didn't know why this was done since the beam was not a load bearing support. He still reinforced the ceiling before removal. I took pictures off the outside roof line peak before and after construction. I can't see any difference. We had almost 8 inches of snow last week and I thought that might be a factor. After all snow was gone, rechecked roof, still no change. Contractor said there should be no problem with snow. So far all is good.
My cars are 17 1/2 feet long, but I had a 24 x 9 hole cut out. I wanted to make sure I had enough room for any future projects. Also, with the casters that come with the lift, I will be able roll the lift for the best position. I'd rather have too large an opening than one too small.
Tim
Long time coming to install a 4 post lift.
