Garage Ceiling Joist Question

[knightfire83]

So I finally got all moved into our new house. It's a rental with a opportunity to buy in the future if we want. Now I am starting the process of setting up my garage.

It is a 2+ stall type of deal with a span close to 24 feet. The thing is the ceiling joist are a single 2x6 that run the entire span between the walls. They are flimsy and easy to move to say the least.



What would be the best way of strengthening this structure. I'm thinking adding additional 2x6's or 2x4's from the rafters to the ceiling joist. Would a vertical orientation be good or should it be in a V formation?


I would also add a row of 2x6 supports in between the joists on each side to keep them from moving front to back.

I don't know allot about roof structures so I thought I'd better ask before I do something wrong.

After this is done I can run all new electrical and install an garage door opener. Then it's off to make workbenches and storage space.

Any ideas?

[flyboy71]

Those ceiling joists sure dont appear to be 16" or 24" on center. You need to add a few to get them on center and aligned to the rafters. The 2x6 size should be sufficient for that span. Once you add an attic floor the joists will stiffen so dont worry how flimsy they are across the span. If you dont add ceiling joists youll need a pole in the garage at least. If you need to reinforce the rafters you can add a collar tie across the top.

[fordman]

that is too long of a span to put any weight on them from above. so nothing should be put on top of them for storage.
those joists are to tie the wall together from spreading outwards is thier purpose. since the roof slope tries to push them down and outward. i think i can see splices in the joists or atleast some short boards nailed to two of them.
if you put any boards up there they will push down on the joists in any kind of rain or snow or other things that will put weight on the roof. so any place the boards contact the joists will be a possible future stress point on the joists. i am thinking the center V formation may be the best to do. that way you could possibly split the length of the support of the 2x6. and even put a center beam under it with supports going to the floor for complete load factors of a 2x6 span for any weight added to the joist. although there is not enough room up there to use it for any real storage or a room of any kind.
if all you want to do is make them stop from being flexable is to nail 2x4's across the tops of them to tie them together and keep them from moving.
i think the total span of a 2x6 is 11' 9" for correct weight load ratings.

[pltmgr]

I would do what hazelnut suggested. If you put support poles you will cuss at them at least 10,000 times before you move on.

[knightfire83]

Thank you all for the good information.