I know this issue has probably been discussed at length in this forum, but I have a crossroads in about 10 days to choose either 1) conventional lumber ie 2×10 floor framing. 2) using I-joists on the first floor 3) using open web joists between first & second floors. My plumber indicates that his job would be easier and hence less costly if we went with trusses between floors 1 & 2. I would almost assum the same with the HVAC. Electrician could care less. The supplier indicates that 2×10’s are at an all time low as far as costs are concerned. I know opinions will range, but any input on this will be extremely helpful.
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My cost for 9.5" I-joists runs about 1.6 times cost for 2x10, and my guess is that open web joists would be even more.
Your plumber needs to quantify his deal. If his cost comedown will offset the price increase for the engineered stuff, then it's a no-brainer.
I am presuming that installed costs for all the choices are equivalent, because you did not mention carpentry.
When you're crunching the numbers, don't forget to add the cost of fire blocking for the open web joists....buic
You'll have fewer problems with squeeks and "settling" (actually shrinkage) if you go with one of the engineered materials. I used open web joists on my home and have no regrets at all.
I like I-joists when I have the choice. They're better than lumber - greater spans, straighter, less movement, usually lighter to handle, fewer nice trees consumed using them...what's not to like? I often put them 19.2o.c. but that's as much a function of sheathing choices and floor loading.
Think of the extra money as an investment in a better building instead of money out of the budget, maybe that will help.
Remodeling contractor who once visited the Glass City.