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Building Homes or Extensions/Calculate floor load?
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Question
Hi,
I have a new home and there is an area on a second floor that I would like to build a bar. I know the granite for the bar alone will be about 1000 pound. I would like to make sure about 1500 pounds can be placed there.
I want to make sure the I-Joists that were used for the floor can handle the weight.
I know the joists used are Pr-40 with a live load of 40 spf and dead load of 10 psf. The I-Joists span 20 feet and are 12 inches thick.
The area of concern is in line with 4 I-Joists.
Can you help me understand the weight each joist can handle in this span?
Thanks,
Dean
Dean,
The 40 psf live load means that your floor can safely carry 40 pounds per square foot, evenly distributed. Of course, it is never evenly distributed, but a bathtub, or a standard-thickness granite slab, is normally not a problem. Assuming that your joists are 12" on center (to be conservative), then each of them can carry an evenly-distributed 40x1x20 = 800 pounds. If you don't have any other major point loads, then applying 400 pounds to each of them is no problem.
If you have reason for doubt, you may find it worth your peace of mind to hire a structural engineer for a couple of hours.
Good luck, and please post follow-up questions if you'd like. -Ted
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| Comment | Thanks! I had a structual lumber engineer come by from the lumber company I bought all the material for house from a couple years ago. They did the orignal lumber design. He looked at the area of concern and the weight requirements. The I-Joists are 16" apart, but things still look good. He said the area will handle the loads applied. I found out the granite top is 600 pounds spread over a 3'x 10' area so its lighter than I thought. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
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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