Lvl Floor Beam Span Table: A Crucial Component in House Design

When designing a house, it's essential to consider the structural elements that support its foundation. One crucial component is the floor beam span table, which ensures that the floor joists are properly supported and can withstand various loads. In this article, we'll explore how to read and design with floor beam span tables, using the example of expanding a house beyond its original dimensions.

Understanding Floor Beam Span Tables

Floor beam span tables provide information on the maximum distance that floor beams can span without additional support. The tables take into account various factors, including the size and spacing of the floor joists, as well as the type of loading applied to the structure. By consulting these tables, designers and builders can determine the appropriate size and placement of floor beams to ensure a safe and sturdy house.

Expanding Our Example House

In our previous example, we designed a house with a width of 17'2', using 2x12 floor joists spaced at 12' on center. However, as we aim to expand the house beyond this dimension, we need to consider alternative methods for supporting the floor joists. One option is to use a floor beam span table to determine the required size and placement of floor beams.

Choosing the Right Floor Beam

When selecting a floor beam, it's essential to consider its width, thickness, and material. For our example house, we'll choose a 2x12 floor beam, which will provide sufficient support for the 24' wide floor joists. We can also use a wider or thicker beam if necessary, depending on the specific design requirements.

Designing with Floor Beam Span Tables

To design with floor beam span tables, follow these steps:

1. Determine the maximum distance you want to span without additional support.

2. Consult the floor beam span table for the corresponding loading conditions (e.g., dead load, live load).

3. Select a floor beam size and spacing that meets or exceeds the table's recommendations.

4. Verify that the chosen floor beam can withstand the expected loads using the joist span tables.

In this article, we've explored the importance of floor beam span tables in house design and how to read and design with them. By understanding these tables, designers and builders can ensure that their structures are safe, sturdy, and meet local building codes. Whether you're designing a new home or expanding an existing one, incorporating floor beam span tables into your design will help you create a solid foundation for years to come.

Lvl floor beam span table