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March 26, 2009

Raising the ceiling in a brownst

How can I assess the possibility of raising the roof in a brownstone I am considering buying without actually breaking through current structure? Can anyone recommend a good person to give me a consultation on that sort of thing?

Comments

1) Is it landmarked, if it is ,it's possible but not likely.
2) Does it have an existing, sound parapet wall to accept new joists?
3) Many brownstones have a deeply dropped ceiling and you may be able to raise the ceiling to the roof joists.

Posted by: edifice rex at March 26, 2009 5:18 PM

I had the exact same issue. My contractor was J Thomas Construction. Call JT Stewart @ (917)699-3810. He's a great guy and will talk to you about what you need and give an estimate. Good luck!

Posted by: VF at March 27, 2009 10:11 AM

How can you raise the roof without breaking through the current structure? I mean, you're raising the roof. But it is possible to put in the new roof prior to breaking through, I guess that is what you mean. That is very possible. Even if you are in an historic district assuming you are only raising the roof a couple of feet, you can probably do it in most cases. It is a big project though. How badly do you need the additional ceiling height? ANy Brooklyn-based architect or engineer can advise you on this.


Posted by: sam at March 27, 2009 3:51 PM

Allow me to summarize what every contractor/architect will tell you:

It's possible to raise the ceiling height a few feet, but it will be very complicated and expensive. Can I get a deposit?

Posted by: slick at March 27, 2009 4:24 PM

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