How Do I Frame a Hip Roof?

Q: I'm trying to find out if a hip roof can be framed as a true cathedral. I know that when you are framing gable roofs, you can use collar ties in lieu of attaching ceiling joists to the bottom of the rafters. Can the same be done for hip roofs?

A: I am assuming the ceiling in question is "stick framed" rather than a truss. In order to obtain a true cathedral, you will have to remove the hip roof and install a gabled end. The problem is the hip adds another angle which is not a true cathedral.

One option is to build a coffered ceiling which will raise the ceiling height and allow you to use the hip side as part of the ceiling. The coffered ceiling has four sloped sides and a flat top. You will only have to add the slope to the side opposite the hip.

If the framing is a truss, an engineer will have to design the new roof system. The manufactured truss system is engineered as a unit and cannot be dismantled. I have seen attics where owners have removed some of the cord members and the ceiling drops sometimes a couple of inches.

If you have stick framing, you will have to be sure to install new bracing for any perlins before you remove one in the way. Determine the height of the new ceiling you want and install new ceiling joists from opposite roof joists. All that is then missing is the end opposite the hip roof. Simply add new joists to match the slope of the remaining sides. The only potential problem you may encounter is if there is a valley in the area. This may provide enough of a challenge that would not be possible to install.

David Ratcliff, CGR, CR, MacKenzie Roofing & Remodeling, Inc., San Antonio, TX