Building Homes or Extensions/Spacing Between Floor Joist

Advertisement

Expert: - 3/19/2008


Question
I am having a new house built by a contractor. He is planning to have the spacing between the floor joists to be 24” OC.  It seems to me most houses are 16” OC. What are the pros and cons in having 24” OC spacing? Should I be worried about weak floors?

Answer
Robert,

Floor joist spacing of 24" OC has been common for at least a century. Floor materials are generally made for such a span, and the results are well known. Review the specs for your particular floor to satisfy yourself that it's going to work for you.

However, I often frame floors on 16" centers to improve stiffness, especially if there is going to be some tile. If it is important to you, request the 16" OC and be willing to pay a little extra--about 50 percent more for the floor framing and insulating protions. All other items should remain the same price.

Daniel

Building Homes or Extensions

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Daniel Humphrey

Expertise

I can answer questions about designing and building homes and outbuildings, especially for colder climates. I am expert in timber framing, but of course I also know about other kinds of residential construction techniques and materials. Because of my emphasis on using local materials and organic alternatives, I know quite about about Green Building and am willing to do the research to find out more.

Experience

I've been a timber framer for 20 years, working as a general contractor who designs and builds custom timberframe homes, working as much as possible with local organic materials, from foundation to finish. I also have expertise in designing, building, and setting up pre-fab remote camp facilities on terra firma or temperate glaciers for research and expeditions, using helicopters for support.

Education/Credentials
B.A., M.F.A.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.