35'X25 garage. How to Span cheaply/easily?

[Jeff Matthews]

I want to tear down old garage and build new one. Dimensions 25' x 35'. Old garage had shed roof with metal poles in center to support rafter span greater than 16'.

Don't want metal poles/columns in middle. Want big/open room. Still want flat roof - actually slope 1/4" per ft.

Intend to have deck on top. Don't want to get expensive and want to do myself w/couple helpers. Don't want to use iron girders/cranes, etc.

Can I use built-up wood for 30' main beam construction down middle and tie rafters into it? If so, what size lumber? How many do I laminate (nail and glue) together to form the beam?

I am not aware of any span tables on this. Thanks for responses from you guys who have done this before.

[lefty]

Not anything you are going to build yourself -- glulams and microlams are an engineered product!! However, check with your local bldg. dept. -- you may be able to use LVL's or I-joists (other engineered products), and they are light enough for 2 people to install.

[Doug Aleshire]

Jeff Matthews,

Not know where you live creates a problem for me as there are other factors that might have to be considered. Snow load, building height that you didn't mention, etc.

With the stipulations that you suggest, then the best option is Web Roof Trusses. The type I refer to is similar to a floor web truss.

This could be a top load bearing or bottom load bearing. this would handle the span of 25 feet and by going to a 16" O.C. placement, this would also handle a load above for a deck. Cost will not be cheap so you have to determine if this is all worth the expense.

Due to the length, thinking the shorter span, the use of LVL's and TJI's is an option but not for all that you mentioned. When you consider the weight, a 20 foot - 12" high 4x2 truss may weight about 100 pounds. Manageable for 2 guys but they are bulky to a degree. Contact your local lumber yard for what you are needing.

Trying to build something as you suggested is not an option nor would it be approved by any Building Dept.

Hope this helps!