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Architecture/verification of load

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Expert: - 10/20/2009


Question
I want to put radiant floor heat in a 2" concrete slab on a suspended floor that is supoorted by 2x12x12's, 16" OC with a main support beam constructed of 6 glued/nailed together 2x10x16.
The 2x12x12's are all supported in center resting on the 6-2x10x16's. The (Joists)floor is/are topped with 3/4" 4x8 sheets of tongue and groove plywood.
How can I verify that the floor will handle the load?

Answer
It is not possible to verify the existing floor loading capacity without each of the following: (1) a detailed layout of floor framing described, with dimensions and lumber species, (2) the structure supporting the "suspended floor" and how it is connected and is in-turn supported, (3) the proposed concrete wet mix weight, (4) use group of the structure involved, as defined by the locally-adopted code, (4) approximate total weight of the radiant system when filled and a layout of the radiant piping in the floor and (5) how the non-t&g subfloor joints are supported.  

I have to suggest to you that this question is too site-specific to be addressed in this forum and that you consider involving either a qualified local building expert or the radiant system vendor to advise you.

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Cary Simmons

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I can address light construction questions--how things should be assembled, why they come apart and how changes in construction practices, technology and deferred maintenance should be factored into any consideration of the proper fix. I cannot answer complex construction queries that require specific site knowledge and would elect to avoid those that smack of a litigation history.

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I have been in private practice in New England for more than 30 years, during which time, as a hobby, I have personally owned and restored for either personal or adaptive reuse, five pre-1775 homes, of which my wife and I still own and maintain three.

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B. Arch, Cornell 1967 advanced studies, Harvard GSD, 1971-72 and 1976-77

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numerous historic preservation awards in Massachusetts, although historic preservation is not our core practice

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they are several, loyal and of long-standing, and would prefer to remain private

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