Engineered Wood Floor Joist Span Tables

Engineered wood floor joists are a popular choice for construction projects because they are lightweight, versatile, and durable. They are made from a combination of wood fibers and adhesives, and can be engineered to meet specific strength and performance requirements. One of the most important factors to consider when using engineered wood floor joists is the span, which is the distance between the supports.

The span of an engineered wood floor joist is determined by the load requirements of the floor, and is expressed in feet and inches. The load requirements will vary depending on the type of flooring, the joist spacing, and the live loads that will be placed on the floor. To ensure the safety and performance of the floor, it is important to use the correct span when installing engineered wood floor joists.

To determine the correct span for engineered wood floor joists, it is recommended to consult the manufacturer's span tables. These tables are based on the joist's size, thickness, and species, and can be used to determine the maximum span for a given load requirement. It is important to note that these tables do not account for the live loads that will be placed on the floor, so it is always best to consult a design professional to determine the appropriate span for your project.

Here is a table showing the span of engineered wood floor joists for different live loads (psf):

Span (ft)	Live Load (psf)
12	50
14	60
16	70
18	80
20	90

When installing engineered wood floor joists, it is important to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions. This will include proper spacing, blocking, and fastening. By following these instructions, you can ensure the safety and performance of your floor for many years to come.