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Building Homes or Extensions/How much weight can my second floor handle.

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Expert: - 1/26/2009


Question
Hi,

I have a piece of furniture that is 408 pounds and a television that is about 100 pounds will be placed inside the furniture piece.  It is actually a cabinet with a lift system made for plasma TVs.  Can the floor of my bonus room, which is above my garage, handle this amount of weight in one place over a period of time?

Answer
Ashlie,  you left out some important information.  How large is the footprint of the cabinet?

If it is about 3' x 4' that is 12 square feet.  If your room was built to code, it should easily carry 40 pounds per square foot, so about 480 pounds.  Close enough.  I also suspect the cabinet will be against an outside wall which puts it near the bearing ends of the joists which eases the problem.  Think about 2 heavy men sitting or standing close together.  Probably not a problem.

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Dan Griffin

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I can answer almost all questions related to the total construction process. My expertise is in commercial construction, though I can field most any residential question. I have hands on experience in concrete, heavy equipment, masonry, all phases of carpentry, interior finishes, and I am fairly strong in mechanical and electrical.

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I have over 20 years experience as a commercial carpenter and commercial construction superintendent. I have another 20 years experience in facility management for a major school district.

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My favorite hobby for he past 12 years has been singing bass in a The OkChorale men's barbershop chorus and the Mature Moments quartet.

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I hold a Bachelor's degree in English and Math. I have completed many continuing education hours in the building trades. I hold a Master Carpenter card from the AGC, Associated General Contractors.

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