Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/12/2008

Question
QUESTION: What were the building codes for the size of the roof joists used in 1980 for a patio roof in New Jersey?

ANSWER: Hi jerry, it's hard to say.  I suppose you could maybe look up building code archives at your local building department.  Most building codes follow a standardized model for determining the bending stress and maximum allowable spans for lumber and these formulas haven't changed much over the years.  http://www.awc.org/calculators/span/calc/timbercalcstyle.asp
check out the above website and see how your roof span and lumber type compares to what is suggested. I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Bruce for the info. I have called the town building inspector to no avail. I have a patio roof that was built approximately 25 years ago that had collapsed. My insurance denied a claim due to improper size joists..I have lived in the house for 17 years.. My local municipality has no record of the codes when this structure was built. The joists are douglas fir (2x6)..for todays standards that is not in spec, therefore my problem. Any info would be appreciated...

Answer
Hi again jerry, first of all I am not an attorney but you need to go back to your insurance company.  They have collected your money for 17 years and now they are telling you your structure was improperly built?  Unless they inspected the property 17 years ago and made that determination then, in writing it doesn't seem fair that they have the right to deny your claim from what I know about this, unless the wood was rotted out from lack of maintenance or that kind of thing..Douglas fir is still an accepted and widely used lumber type ranking close to southern yellow pine in strength and endurance.  It is a good building wood.  I used it for years in Oregon.  You still didn't tell me how far the joists were spanning or why the roof collapsed.  So it's difficult to comment further on this.  Sincerely bruce e johnson