What Are These Turnbuckles Doing In My Closet? The Surprising Truth Behind This Old House Hack
November 13, 2024
source: Marci Cohoon/Facebook
Buying an older home comes with unique charms – and sometimes unexpected discoveries. Imagine walking through an 1850s house you’re about to close on, only to find two robust metal turnbuckles reaching vertically from the closet shelf to the ceiling. Neither the sellers, agents, nor even the inspector could explain their purpose, leaving one last-minute mystery to solve. Could these be structural components holding the house together?
Turnbuckles are tension-adjusting devices commonly used to apply force between two points. In homes, they can serve various purposes, from securing structural elements to counteracting shifting walls. Though you might expect to find turnbuckles in basements or attics, seeing them in a closet might feel out of place – unless you understand how essential they are to this home’s structure.
One plausible explanation is that these turnbuckles are actually tensioners designed to tie the center beam of the house into the roof system. In homes this old, structural components may have shifted over time due to settling, climate changes, or simply the materials aging. Adding tensioners could be a solution used by a previous homeowner to reinforce the structure without drastic renovations. The turnbuckles might provide friction and tension to keep key elements from moving, effectively helping to “hold the house together.”
Using turnbuckles as structural aids is not uncommon in older buildings, particularly ones built before modern construction standards. Builders or homeowners often applied creative methods to ensure structural integrity. These tensioners are generally seen as a positive addition, adding stability and maintaining the balance of the home’s framework. If they’re holding the beams and the roof system together, they might prevent any further shifting or warping, especially in the face of extreme weather conditions.
In most cases, turnbuckles like these don’t signal a problem; rather, they’re part of a proactive solution. They’re typically well-suited to older homes, offering added structural support that may even extend the life of the building. However, if you’re unsure or if they were unexpected, it’s always wise to consult a structural engineer. They can confirm whether the turnbuckles are serving their intended purpose and verify that they’re in good condition.
Every old house has its quirks, from hidden compartments to unique repairs and reinforcement solutions. These turnbuckles might become a conversation starter – a visual reminder of the innovative ways people adapted their homes over the years. By understanding and embracing these historical elements, you’re not just buying a home; you’re preserving a piece of history, quirks and all.