Hi all,
I need advice on a cost effective means to strengthen floor joists. Currently, renovating a 2-story block building w/ full basement (30×30).
The first floor is 2×10 joists supported by a block wall and a 6×8 beam resting on 2×2 block columns (each span less than 10′).
An 18″ steel I-beam supports the 2×8 second floor joists.
I have need for two solutions:
First, how can I eliminate the need for interior walls supporting josts that span only 8 or 10 feet.
Second, how do I reinforce the existing joists or install new joists without removing the second floor plumboing–since, during prior bathroom renovations the plumber cut both the top and bottom of the joist or removed a full section of the joist and nailed a 2×4 to span the cut out.
Thanks
Erik
Replies
Some methods I have used are: 1) to sister a second joist alongside an existing joist 2) glue and nail plywood ripped to the depth size of the joists alongside side the joists 3) bolt steel to the sides of the joists
But - I am not an engineer, and one should normally be consulted in a case like this.
sistering won't come close to solving the problems as I understand you.
Help clarify.
First floor is thirty foot long 2x10s at what layout?
Each 2x10 spans what distance?
The support columns under the beams are about ten feet apart?
Also be as specific for second floor.
If you want no midspan supports, there is no inexpensive solution.
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