Some newer homes have manufactured i beam shaped joists.
Floor joist are usually what size in residential construction.
You should also check your local building codes before starting construction and consult a structural engineer in unusual or extreme situations.
A floor s framework is made up mostly of wooden joists that run parallel to one another at regular intervals.
Joist span and spacing is set by your local building code.
Putting all these factors together gives the minimum size joists needed for various types of wood grades of lumber sizes of boards spacing of joists and the load that will be placed on the floor.
Types of floor joists the three main types of floor joists used in home construction are solid lumber i joists and open web floor trusses.
In many countries the fabrication and installation of all framing members including joists must meet building code standards.
Ceiling joists are usually 2 by 6s or sometimes 2 by 4s if it is an older home.
Joists must exhibit the strength to support the anticipated load over a long period of time.
This sample table gives minimum floor joist sizes for joists spaced at 16 inches and 24 inches on center o c for 2 grade lumber with 10 pounds per square foot of dead load and 40 pounds of live load which is typical of normal residential construction.
Considering the cross section of a typical joist the overall depth of the joist is critical in establishing a safe and stable floor or ceiling system.
When building a house or even a deck it is important to confirm you have the correct joist sizes spans and spacing before you get started.