Can I Use 2x4 For Floor Joists

Doesn t interfere with plumbing or wiring in joist bays.

Can i use 2x4 for floor joists.

And your math on the beam spacing isn t adding up. Builders generally use pre calculated tables to tell them appropriate joist spans for each lumber species size and spacing. With a 2x4 band joist and 2x6 floor joists it. This size is no longer acceptable when framing a structure.

You d also have to have the attachments to the top plate of the walls adequate to support the weight of the floor. About 16 ft 6 span. If the floor joists are 2x6 then the band joists should be 2x6. I didn t nog mine and its plenty strong.

This would make the plywood the stressed member and the 2x4s would be acting more like the webbing of an i beam. In the past 2x4s or 2x6s were sometimes used as floor joists. If one end of the span is supported by a beam up the middle of the garage that probably wasn t sized to support a floor either. Use a temporary 2x4 post at the midpoint of the span to support the joist until the adhesive cures usually in 24 to 48 hours.

Bottom edges of joists must be free of wires pipes and ducts. B u t information such as this can solve some sticky problems for heat duct plumbing clearances and the like in a few select areas of a custom home or remodel. Another option might be to put plywood below the joist as well as above. If you are allowed to use 2x4 s for the joists it ll cost you more money than using 2x6 s would.

In buildings with basements the first level of floor joists serves the same purpose. Floor joists installed on second or third or higher levels double as ceiling joists for the level below. The 2x4 s won t span as far so you would need more beams and more footings to support them. But local building codes should always be consulted since unusual situations may call for different span recommendations.

Strongest way is to put a structural surface both sides and nog out between the joists at staggered 4 ft intervals. Can you frame a whole house using 2x4 floor joists. 3 beams spaced 5 apart total 10. 2 x 4 at 2 ft centres supports the workshop ceiling loft floor of my shop just fine and there is a lot of weight up there.

When you place a wall on the band joists you want to transfer the weight to the ground. True floor joist span calculations can only be made by a structural engineer or contractor.