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huangyhg

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i am building a two-story addition on the rear corner of a colonial home. the addition will run 18' along the back wall and extend out 14'. i am matching the existing framing; 2x10 floor joists, 2x6 walls, 2x10 ceiling joists, 2x8 rafters. question: using a 2x10 header, how wide can i open up the rear wall to the addition on both floors? would there be any disadvantage to opening the existing ceilings, adding joist hangers, and making these blind headers? open to suggestions, thanks
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these things are better made as a professional design. of course has some cost but this way you ensure the house you will be living upon will have contemplated all the relevant issues.
it also ensures no misunderstanding result from the advice. i myself even if not having problem in dimensioning wood members and framing by the practice in spain have some difficulty in understanding how the structure in your house is, how that of your addition, and then what are the implications of making an opening or openings at some point. hence i must refrain of giving any numbers about.