Lise LaFrance of the APA joins Bob to explain how the floor deck sections for the second floor were constructed off-site with engineered wood I-joists from Willamette Industries providing strength, stability, easy installation, and design flexibility. Moreover, these I-joists are resource friendly utilizing 50% less wood fiber than traditional lumber joists.
The flooring system, called Code Plus because it exceeds code requirements, is composed of OSB or plywood structural panels supported by I-joists. The I-joists, which look like an uppercase "I", are made up of a top and bottom flange of sawn or structural composite lumber (LVL) and a web (the vertical piece) of plywood or OSB.
Using I-joists results in a floor with fewer squeaks and less bounce and vibrations reducing nail popping and lowering the possibility of cracked floor tiles. Because they can be engineered to longer lengths than dimensional lumber, I-joists offer greater design flexibilty by minimizing the number of support columns needed. Pre-drilled web holes for ductwork and mechanical systems make the plumbers' and electricians' jobs easier while maximizing interior clear height.
According to Lise, 33% of all new homes with wood floors are constructed with I-joists.
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