We ran into something similar on our ‘72 split-level. Our inspector flagged a couple joists for deflection but the rest were fine with just extra blocking and some heavy-duty hangers. I was kind of skeptical, but it really did tighten everything up. Not sure I’d trust it for a hot tub, but for a green roof, it’s holding up so far. Those older houses surprise me sometimes...
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve seen blocking and beefier hangers only go so far—especially when you start adding real weight up there.
Thing is, green roofs can get seriously heavy after a big rain. I’d be nervous relying on old lumber, even if it “tightens up” at first. Maybe I’m just paranoid from seeing too many storm-damaged ceilings...“Not sure I’d trust it for a hot tub, but for a green roof, it’s holding up so far.”
I’ve seen way too many “tightened up” old joists sag out after a few wet seasons, especially with green roof loads. Did you get an engineer to check the existing structure, or just go by the specs? Sometimes the old lumber hides rot pretty well...
You’re spot on about old joists hiding surprises—seen it too many times after a few rough winters. Specs are a good starting point, but I’d never trust them alone for a green roof. Even “tightened up” beams can mask dry rot or old insect damage, especially in pre-war homes. I usually walk the structure with an engineer and poke around with a screwdriver in suspect spots. Sometimes you find soft patches that don’t look like much but turn out to be trouble when loaded up. It’s worth the extra step, even if it feels like overkill.
- I get the caution, but honestly, hiring an engineer for every old house project just isn’t in my budget.
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“I usually walk the structure with an engineer and poke around with a screwdriver in suspect spots.”
- For my 1920s place, I did a careful visual check and used a moisture meter—caught some issues without pro help.
- Not saying skip safety, but sometimes you can spot obvious trouble without going overboard on costs.
- If it’s borderline, then yeah, maybe bring in backup... but sometimes a little DIY detective work goes a long way.
