Building Homes or Extensions/cross brace

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Question
I took the ceiling tiles down in my living room. I want to replace it with drywall. There is no cross bracing between the joist. The span is 12 feet and the joist are 8 inches. My house is about 50 years old. My house is a story and a half, there is a 2nd floor room.  Do I need cross brace.  Thanks, Dave

Answer
Dave,

The 2006 IRC does not requires midspan cross-bracing for your situation.  You are required to have lateral support at the bearing ends, such as a solid rim joist; just verify that it is there.  You should run the drywall perpendicular to the joists, and screw it in place rather than nailing or gluing, for best lateral support.  Screw at 12" o.c. or nail at 7" o.c.

Good luck.  -Ted

Building Homes or Extensions

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Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC)

Expertise

I can answer questions about architectural design, how to work with a designer, and best construction practices for most trades. I specialize in cold-climate design (I'm in Minnesota), older home renovation, and energy-efficient/sustainable design.

Experience

As a Principal of Design45, I design and detail new homes and remodels. I am formally trained in architecture, but have also been a contractor and have experience with many trades. I strive to provide beautiful, durable, and efficient homes for clients and communities of all types and budgets.

Education/Credentials
Undergraduate work at Princeton University (Mathematics), Master's work at the University of Minnesota (Architecture)

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