Key Questions to Ask When Ordering i joist beam

I have an addition that is to be built for a homeowner who wants I-joists. I&#;ve gotten MUCH conflicting info between my Lumberyard and the Big box stores as to the right size joist.

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The big boxes are spec&#;ing Boise Cascade I-joists. The homeowner says they want to feel the floor as solid as possible with as little hint of deflection as possible.

The structure in question here is 20ft 6&#; long x 28ft wide. I plan to space I-joists 12 o.c across the width of 28ft for a total of 26 I-joists. I&#;m using 11 7/8&#; I josits. The span that they must span is of course 26ft 6&#; (this span includes the foundation wall, outside to outside).

The owner plans for carpet on the floor, maybe wood. A possible large typical aquarium, typical furniture and chairs (this is a Sunroom). The upstairs floor, which mirrrors the first, will be a master BR consisting of typical BR furnishings like a nice heavy bed set.

I&#;ve been told I can get away with a BCI 90 which is a 3.5&#; top/bot cord of the joist. I also been told I can do it with a BCI MINIMALLY, or that I can use a BCI . One places says I&#;m told by the others wrongly. One place says I MUST use a 3.5&#; cord. Other places say I must use web stiffeners.

Any opinions out there on who is right? One place claims the mfgr says I must use 3.5&#;. I don&#;t know who to believe. The price difference is almost double between BCI and BCI 90.

If at first you don&#;t succeed, try using a hammer next time&#;everything needs some extra persuasion from time to time.  -ME

What Are I-Joists?

I-joists are structural engineered wood products used for framing floors and roofs. The consistency allows for solid performance and smooth ceilings.

Like all joists, I-joists are typically used to transfer loads to beams, walls, and the foundation. Unlike traditional dimension lumber, which can twist, split, and bow, I-joists offer better consistency and strength while weighing less and being easier to handle. These attributes make I-joists popular with builders of single-family homes, as well as light commercial and multi-family structures.

Key Questions to Ask When Ordering I Joist Beam

1. What Span Do You Need?

Understanding the span requirements of your project is crucial, as it influences the type and size of the i joist beam you will need. Be prepared to provide measurements and load information for accurate recommendations.

2. What Load Will the Beam Support?

Identifying the load that the I-joist needs to support can help determine its size and type. This information will help to select an I-joist that meets building codes and performance specs.

3. What Are the Building Codes?

Every region has specific building codes that dictate the required structural specifications. Ensure that your selection complies with local regulations.

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How Are I-Joists Made?

I-joists consist of OSB web between two flanges, which are typically constructed of dimensional lumber or laminated veneer lumber (LVL) and joined by a durable structural adhesive. BCI® Joists use Versa-Lam® LVL for strength and durability while AJS joists have flanges made of machine stress-rated lumber.

A finished I-joist looks like the letter I, lending the product its name.

What Are Common I-Joists Sizes?

I-Joists are manufactured in a wide range of depths ranging from 9 ½&#;-24&#; and can be special ordered in lengths as long as 60 feet.

BCI Joists are available in standard depths up to 20&#; and AJS joists are available in depths up to 24&#;. The extra depths make an ideal solution for multifamily applications.

How Far Do I-Joists Span?

The answer to this question depends on many factors unique to your project. Download the BCI or AJS I-joist Specifier&#;s guide to see I-joist span chart for your specific application or learn more about the Boise Cascade software suite.

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