C16 Timber: C16 is the most commonly used form of timber. It can be used in many different applications and is the most cost effective option. C16 timbers are kiln dried to minimise the amount of moisture in the wood. This grade of timber which is commonly used in internal construction such as floors, walls and roof joists is not only cost effective, it has the strength and other properties such as bending, compression and density which are required for construction. As strong, versatile and cost effective this grade of timber might be, it does have some defects, such as grain deviations which may affect the strength of the timber as well as some cosmetic defects such as sap stains and sometimes and an uneven surface. For example, if you’re using southern yellow pine lumber for your joists, the allowable cantilever overhangwould be 3′ for 2-by-10 joists spaced 16″ apart and spanning 12′ total. A bubble level:If you’re working alone, a bubble level will help you measure straight lines when installing joist hangers. Typically, going with 12-inch or 16-inch joist spacing is a safe bet for the project, but if you want to ensure the spacing is adequate for the project, use the following formula: Galvanized hanger nails:You need 1 1/2″ joist hanger nails. Joist hanger nails are hot-dipped and galvanized. Be sure you have enough nails on hand to fill each hole on every hanger.

Although laying and installing joists is a straightforward process, there are several things to consider, especially regarding size and spacing. Getting board dimensions or spacing distance wrong can compromise the integrity of your structure, and might even violate some local building codes. The joists may be cantilevered at each end beam or terminate flush with the end beams. Joists that cantilever allow for the use of longer joists than those that terminate at the outside face of the beam. The 2018 IRC is a good place to start as is your local Code which may adjust values or loads for regional conditions. Joist Spans for #2-Grade Dimensional Lumber The information and advice in this article is provided in good faith and is designed to give general information and guidance. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. If in doubt we strongly recommend you seek professional assistance. Four very popular types of spindle are usually used the Square, Chamfered, Colonial and American and each of them can be installed using a universal hand/base rail shown here. The spindles are held in place simply by fixing the infill strips between each spindle in both the top and bottom rails.Pressure-treated or wood preservative doesn’t affect the strength of wood, incising however does. Incising is the process of infusing preservative deeper into the wood through small 1/4” deep cuts on all surfaces. Incising weakens the wood slightly, so it often is rated for shorter distances. Erecting and spacing beams to allow shorter spans means less expensive and more readily available timbers may be used. It is better to go shorter than to try and maximize span bridging for a more solid and secure platform. Joist size determines span and spacing, so select the grade and type of wood best suited for your needs and budget. Joist spacing refers to the distance between joists and is measured in centimetres or inches. If you draw a line down the centre of two joists and measure the distance between them as 600mm or 24 inches, then the joist spacing is 600mm or 24 inches centre to centre.

are required are given in 4.8m lengths so there is as little joins as possible. All screws are supplies. Some equations and algorithms will calculate the span and spacing for joists and numerous joist span tables for reference too.Support beams:Once you have installed a ledger, you will add the remaining support posts and any applicable center beams before continuing to the joists. Pressure treated lumber is one of the most commonly used products. It's available in a range of sizes, including 2x6, 2x8, 2x10, and 2x12. Similarly, cedar, pine, and fir wood can be found in 2x6, 2x8, 2x10, and 2x12 sizes. If you are set on steel joists for the project, then you are generally limited to 2x6, though this size comes in both 16 gauge and 18 gauge. Learn more about the UltraShield® advantage, or find a NewTechWood distributor near youto get started. NZS 3604 also outlines many other requirements on joists such as fastenings, please refer to this document for more information. Some formulas take the bending, compression, and breaking values for wet or dry wood that are based on predetermined values for different species to determine safe loads over specified distances. The formulas have been used to calculate the spans and spacing on different tables in the Building Codes, and are the values used by different calculator algorithms.

There are so many variables and potential for error when calculating from scratch, that unless you’re a Structural Engineer tasked with the job, it’s better to use another method. My preference is to use span and spacing values readily available in Code tables or calculators. Once each hanger is installed evenly and nailed into place, you can begin attaching your joist boards:Now, you need to use a pencil or white chalk to mark the face of the ledger board where your joists will be —exactly 16″ from center to center. If using a tape measure, be sure you securely place the tip of it against the outside of the ledger, so you get an accurate measurement.