Finding beams on wood roofs
Finding beams on wood roofs
(OP)
Hi, I am seeking advice from anyone with experience in large residential, flat wooden roofs. I want to map out the support beam structure under flat roofs without having to rip open the roofing. Pic below. Most old buildings in NY City don't have any blueprints. I'm looking for something better than the wooden mallet technique to locate the load bearing beams. Any reliable stud finders or other techniques you'd recommend? Thanks.
Note: This is for ballast mounting solar project. I'm in the process of gathering all data to be reviewed by a structural PE consultant.

Note: This is for ballast mounting solar project. I'm in the process of gathering all data to be reviewed by a structural PE consultant.







RE: Finding beams on wood roofs
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Finding beams on wood roofs
Northern section of the roof:
Southern section of the roof:
RE: Finding beams on wood roofs
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RE: Finding beams on wood roofs
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RE: Finding beams on wood roofs
Would still appreciate any product recommendation for a thermal imaging camera and stud-finder that worked well for you. Thanks!