Roofing

Cracked beam in roof/ceiling

Anonymous user 06/03/2024 - 2.30 PM

Hello 1930s detached house, with timber roof construction. There is a crack in one of the beams; I'm tyring to figure out if I should be worried about it. Description (I'll post a picture if I figure out how): The ceiling (as I observe it from the loft) is built with beams (joists?) every 40/50cms. Then there are 2 or 3 thicker beams going the other way (what should I call these?). These are resting on top of the joists. One of these has a large crack/split close to where it rests on a joist. What does this beam hold up? The position of the crack suggests it's being pulled down... i.e. it's holding up the joists? (seems unlikely). I assumed it's holding up the roof structure... in which case the crack may be less of a problem (e.g. could be caused by too much wait in the loft bending the joists?) thanks for your advice! Stefano