I need some help from experts out there. I am working on a Florida home with a crawlspace. Despite putting down cement board there is too much flax in the tile floor. We then sistered LVL beams. to the existing floor joists in the area of concern. We’re still seeing too much flax. Any ideas to furtherest stiffen the floor from the crawlspace? Thank you!
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Replies
More info: existing joist size, span, subfloor material
Cement board doesn’t help with deflection. It’s all about what size floor joists you have, how far they span and how close together they are.
Add a girder mid span…
Thank you!
Or better yet, tell us what the existing joists are, their span & spacing and what the subloor sheathing is.
You don't tell us exactly what is "flexing" - the subfloor or the joists.
Tile is more susceptible to deflection in the small spans (like subfloor between joists) rather than the deflection of the floor joists themselves (unless that is truly extreme).
Deflection on a tile floor deflection refers to the tile's ability to bend or bend under load without cracking or breaking. Proper subfloor preparation and installation techniques will help minimize deflection and ensure a stable surface. Tile floors must meet industry standards for sag to prevent damage and ensure long life.
It sounds like you've taken some steps to address the issue of flex in your tile floor, but it's understandable that you're still experiencing problems. Here are a few additional ideas to further stiffen the floor from the crawlspace:
1. **Add Additional Support Beams**: Consider adding more LVL beams or additional support beams in strategic locations beneath the floor joists. This can help distribute the weight more evenly and reduce flexing.
2. **Install Cross-Bracing**: Install cross-bracing between the floor joists to help prevent lateral movement and increase overall stability. This can be particularly effective in areas where the floor joists are spaced farther apart.
3. **Use Blocking and Bridging**: Install blocking or bridging between the floor joists to provide additional support and prevent twisting or warping of the joists. This can help improve the overall rigidity of the floor structure.
4. **Check for Proper Fastening**: Ensure that all components, including the cement board, LVL beams, and floor joists, are properly fastened and securely attached. Loose or improperly installed components can contribute to excess flexing.
5. **Consider Professional Assessment**: If the issue persists despite your efforts, consider consulting with a structural engineer or professional contractor who specializes in flooring and structural repairs. They can assess the situation and provide tailored recommendations for further stiffening the floor.
By implementing these additional measures and seeking expert guidance if needed, you can hopefully address the excess flexing in your tile floor and achieve a more stable and durable flooring solution. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals in the field for assistance with your specific situation.