2x2 ceiling

[dmarino55]

Was putting in a box for a smoke detector in BR and noticed (for ceiling support) I have two 2x2's running parallel with insulation between them which the sheetrock is attached, and then appears to be 2x2 structure (for roof support) in which roof sheathing is nailed to.

The sheathing underside is brownish and flakes a little, but when I push with fist fairly strong. Do/should I replace this sheathing? The topside appears fairly white and does not flake easily.

I am concerned about long-term strenght of this roof framing. How long could something like this last before it falls in (built 1987)?? I have just never seen 2x2's used to support a roof! I am very worried and am thinking of trying to sell. Is there anything I can do to strengthen this cost effectively?

This unit is located in northeast indiana near ohio line.

[dmarino55]

This is a manufactured home (forgot to mention)

[admin]

What you have are trusses constructed out of 2x2s... joining the members together in to triangles that are reinforced at the corners, usually by paneling or thin plywood makes for a truss system that will support a considerable amount of weight. The triangular shapes shifts the weight of the load to the walls of the home. We have manufactured homes, in the extreme northern states, built 30 years ago that have been holding snow loads on 2x2 truss systems for many winters. If you would like a deeper understanding of truss construction read - HISTORIC AMERICAN
ROOF TRUSSES at http://www.tfguild.org/publications/sci ... ssTF69.pdf or at WIKIPEDIA http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truss

[dmarino55]

Thanks for the reassuring information.

At what point should I replaced the roof sheathing? Again, it is brownish on underside and flakes a little when I scrape it. The top looks to be normal and does not flake.

Also, since I have an air gap between sheating and insulation, would it make sense to put in a couple of those smaller turbines that cost around $75 to ensure odds of good air flow?