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Expert: - 9/22/2009


Question
Older house built 1970-1972, floor joist are either 2X6, or 2X8(owner not certain), and 12 inches o.c. Will the floor need to be re-inforced to support the weight of a waterbed (approximate weight 1550-1650lbs) and piano (approximate weight 800lbs)?  House has basement and access to floor joists.  If support is required, please make recommendations.  Piano is upright and would go against a wall.  I've been told waterbeds consume less weight per square foot than refrigerators, washing machines, or fish tanks!  Please advise.  Thanks for your time!  JP

Answer
Hello JP,

2x6 joists would seem unlikely.  Even a 2x8 is only good for short spans - under 10'.  Measure the size of the 2x.  The dimensions are 1/2" short of the nominal size - 2x8 is 1½"x7½", etc.  Also, 12"o.c. may be the reason for the small dimension joists.  Normally joists are installed at 16" o.c.  

Code requirements usually specify a minimun of 30# per square foot live load capacity.  The water bed is probably at the limit but acceptable.  The piano is also at the limit but being against an exterior wall or bearing partition will help.

To create a comfort level you may want to reinforce the floor.  The simplest way is to add joists between the existing joists.  Not an easy job but do-able!  A more difficult process would be to install a cross beam midway under the joists with support at each end and in the middle depending on the span and size of beam.

I don't mean to be evasive but without actual sizes and conditions, I must generalize.

I hope this has been helpful.


Roger
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Roger Zona

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I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.

Experience

After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.

Organizations
Previously - NAHA Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)

Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column

Education/Credentials
Michigan State University University of Detroit BS in Engineering

Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family. I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit. I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision. I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.

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