Just a DIYer. I decided to tear out our popcorn coated plaster and lathe ceilings and replace it with drywall, also to replace the knob and tube wiring underneath that mess that was servicing some of the second floor.
Well, as it turns out there was a water leak for some time under the bathtub, and the joist (a true 2 by8) that was notched out for the tub drain, on top no less has a visible crack, and deflects about 1.5″ at the crack. The other two joists on either side are deflecting about 3/4″ as well, also rotten about 1/3 on the bottom. The span is about 16′.
To make matters worse these joists end at the stairwell joist, so that one is deflecting as well. The joists don’t continue to the firewall(twin home) if that makes sense.
Needless to say i’m going to call a pro in to do this work. I’m prettry sure the cracked one needs to be replaced. There is a basement as well. I’m just wondering what kind of solutions the contractor might suggest. And what precations as far as cribbing when (i’m pretty sure) they jack the floor to replace/repair. Should they crib the floor joists as well in the basement?
I know this is sight unseen, just looking for some things to ask/look out for when i meet with the contractor.
Thanks,
Steve
Replies
Instead of replacing the bad joists, your contractor may want to "sister" them -- put in new ones against the old, but leaving the old in place. Usually a good idea, unless there's some good reason to take the time to get the old ones out.
Temporary support of some kind may be needed, but probably not big stacks of cribbing like a house mover would use. They might or might not need to frame up a temp wall somewhere. No way to tell without seeing the actual structure.
Where in SE PA are you? Perhaps somebody here can recommend a contractor.
-- J.S.
I'm outside of philly on the south west corner in delaware county. I have a guy my folks use and he does good work, but that may mean he could be a while before he gets to it. And sooner is better than later because this situation is kinda of holding me up a little Any suggestions would be appreciated though. Feel free to email me.
Thanks,
Steve
If you sister the joists, make them as long as possible. You can cut them short an inch or so on each end. Glue & nail.
"When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it." T. Roosevelt