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QUESTION: I want to put a air massage tub in an upstairs bathroom. Specs call for 45psf. I have 2x10 joists 16' long. Will they hold up?
ANSWER: Hello Roger . . .
Sorry - the specs are about 5psf greater than your structure. Your framing, depending on the species of wood used, supports 10psf dead load and 40psf live load.
In order to meet the specs you must reinforce the joists. Not an easy job when it's 2nd floor framing.
You can verify this with your local building department. Ask a plan reviewer what your framing situation supports and what is permitted to modify the framing. Local codes vary and you may be able to reinforce the supporting joists to reach a higher live load spec.
I'm sorry I don't have a better response for you. Good Luck.
Roger
Ask The Contractor
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: I went back just to make sure on my measurements. The floor joists are actually 14', not 16'. The space is 7' by 7'. Any difference?
Hey Roger,
That's much better! The span is a major factor and at 14' and 16" o.c. you should be safe at
45psf loading. Whew!----that was a close one!
Unless there is a load bearing partition under the span, the full span is used in calculating the load.
Good luck and happy hot tubbing!
Roger
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Answers by Expert:
Roger Zona
Expertise
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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