Asked by Sharon from S.E. Oklahoma
Hello Aaron, Love your barns! I have bought your Barn Plan Package and am trying to decide which is the best for my retirement home. I haven’t seen these questions asked. #1-I want the ends of the upper floor to have three large windows that will cover the entire area. Your notes say that the load bearing is on the outside walls. Will my windows interfere with the second story structural integrity? The supports in the plans can be placed between the center window and the two side windows.
Question #-2. Fireplace. Will be placed about 2/3 of the way back from the end. Will be under the loft area and of course the chimney at the edge where the 12×50 shed dormer is built. Is there a problem? #3-Weight bearing for the upper floors. Two bedrooms and bath with a gallery overlooking foyer. Stairs to the front. Need to have a platform midway up stairs for turning. Powder room under the stairs. Keep up the good work, and thank you in advance.
Hi Sharon,
I have all good news for you. I will answer these question by question.
1. Windows… Yes, you can put windows anywhere there isn’t a post or beam. No need for headers, just frame up the window and install it. The frame is self supporting, it does not depend on “load bearing walls” but on the posts and beam frame. Therefore there really is no load bearing wall, so to speak.
2. No problem, go for it!
3. No problem, go for it!
Have a Great day! I look forward to seeing and hearing more about your project!