Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/22/2008

Question
I am building a second level storage area that will be 24feet by 24feet and I would like to build it so that there are no posts underneath.  I am thinking of building it with a 2x6 framed wall on either side to support the 24ft x 11 5/8inch wood  (I beam style ) floor joists that have 2inch x 3inch flanges set 12 inches apart and then covered with 5/8 Inch tongue and groove plywood.  My concern is that the span of 24 feet with no posts under it will be strong enough, and what the maximum weigh capacity will be and/or the pounds per square inch capacity.

Please advise.



Thanks

Phillip

Answer
Hi Phillip, the bearing capacity of the wood I-beams depends on I-beams.  Contact your local truss manufacturer or lumber supply store that sells these type of joists for that information.  The deeper the joist the more weight it will bear and the longer it can span. Tell them what you want to support and let them design a joist to suit your needs.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com