Home > Ask a Question > Fix It Forum > Attic floor
Login | Register

Attic floor


Posted by Stephen Taylor on March 13th, 2004 02:42 PM
In reply to attic flooring by Brent Raymond on January 27th, 2003 10:16 AM [Go to top of thread]

Your biggest issue is the load limits of the existing stud/rafter/joist structure. The best way to reinforce your floor joist strenght/load is to install "dead pins" beteen each floor joists. The dead pins are normally 2x4's that are nailed between the joists at 2'intervals. Start 2'out from the wall studs and nail a dead pin every two feet. On the next joist lane start at the opposite wall 2' out. This will place the dead pins in a staggard/off-setting design on every other lane. Finish off by using 5/8" or 3/4" plywood flooring.The average dead/live load factor for 2x4 joists on 24" centers with 2x6 rafters and 2x4 studs on 16' centers is 40 to 60 lbs/sq ft. Don't know about loading factors for 1x6 floor joists.

Was this post helpful? Yes: or No:


Topic History:

Topic Follow-ups:







About  | Press Room  | FAQ  | Contact  | Sitemap  | Privacy Policy  | Terms of Use  | Help

© 2009 BobVila.com