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Architecture/Blocking in 2X8 floors

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Expert: - 2/5/2008


Question
I have an attic space made of 2X8's and want to put down a sub floor (3/4 OSB).  There is no blocking in the floor and I would like to add some before I do the decking.  How many blocking points should be done normally in a 12' span?


Answer
Hi Wayne - thanks for your question.

I assume you're talking about bridging?  This is a code issue, so the requirements may differ depending on your location.

Generally, bridging isn't required for anything smaller than 2 x 12's.  When it is, it's usually at 8' spacing.

If you are concerned about lateral bracing in the attic floor it certainly doesn't hurt to add bridging.  One row in a 12' span should do it!

Hope this helps,

Richard Taylor, AIA
www.rtastudio.com
www.rtaplans.com

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Richard Taylor, AIA

Expertise

Ask me about all aspects of house, remodeling. , and room addition design and construction. Ask me about historic homes, renovation, and restoration. Ask me about materials and techniques, and about how you can get the best value for your design and construction dollar. Ask me how you can make your home a very special place. I can't, however, answer specific structural engineering questions in this forum - that's something you'll need on-site observation for.

Experience

I own a full-service residential architectural firm, and have been designing custom homes, remodelings, and room additions across the country since 1983. Check us out at Richard Taylor Architects and RTA Plans. I have written and been published extensively on the subject of residential architecture.

Organizations
American Institute of Architects, City of Dublin Architectural Review Board, Vice Chair of City of Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission, American Planning Association, Board Member Historic Dublin Business Association, Past Editor of SPLASH (a software forum), Past Editor of Open Directory Project, Assistant Scoutmaster, Boy Scouts of America

Publications
Business First of Columbus, Suburban New Publications, About.com, Cleveland Plain Dealer, Columbus Dispatch Residential Architect Custom Home Architect Remodeling Architect

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Environmental Design (Architecture) Miami University 1983
For more about home design, check out my blog at Sense Of Place and join the conversation on our Facebook Page.

Awards and Honors
2010 Dublin Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year

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