I’m getting ready to relocate my dryer vent, going thru new addition that has 9 1/2″ (engineered OSB type) floor joists. Can I cut a 4 1/4″ hole thru several of the joist and still be OK to support floor ? Cutting this large of a hole just looks like it would significantly reduce load rating. Is hole in center of web better than closer to either top or bottom edge ?
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Check with your engineered joist supplier.
It is surprising how big a hole can be safely cut in some of them, BUT the manufacturers are very specific as to hole sizes, shapes and distance from the closest bearing wall.
For example Louisiana-Pacific specifies for their 9-1/2" Series 26 LPI joists:
5" round hole - center not closer than 3'3" to the nearest bearing surface. A rectangular hole with the long dimension of 5" not closer than 4'11" to the nearest bearing surface.
These numbers all change for the 9-1/2" Series 30 joists. - CHECK WITH THE SUPPLIER. The data will be readily available in the tech manual.
Holes are always centered in the OSB web. (LP specs).
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.