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LVL Load Spans

CDubSooner | Posted in General Discussion on December 29, 2023 09:40pm

 Hello All, rookie builder here.

 Just seeking some input regarding a current project.

 I have a 32’x26’ slab and I have 15’ side walls.
 I have run 2-24” 1 3/4” LVL beams spaced at 8’ down the center of my 32’ run, but my span is only about 26’. 

 I have 16” I-joists on top of that spanning the 26’ sides.

 I am building a small room above this area (16’x18’) with a walk out patio. 

 I’m going to tile the exterior flooring. 

  Do I need to double up these 24” LVLs or will these 2 be sufficient?

 Thanks much for any input ?

 

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Replies

  1. User avater
    unclemike42 | Dec 30, 2023 05:11am | #1

    Can you post your image in a different format? It is not showing up for me, and I am having a hard time understanding your layout from the description.

    1. CDubSooner | Dec 30, 2023 06:53am | #2

      https://i.imgur.com/4pa6Bj6.jpg

      Hopefully this will work better than my attachment, I can add some more photos today for better clarity.

      Thanks much.

  2. 4thedogs | Jan 10, 2024 04:31pm | #3

    Looking at the picture, I have some questions. First, are there drawings that you are using to frame this in? Are the floor joists butted up to each other? I think that you need to have approved drawings or a structural engineer look this over. We are all learning and I might be wrong in my thinking looking at the one picture, I would stop and have professional advise given to me.

  3. User avater
    unclemike42 | Jan 10, 2024 06:53pm | #4

    Interesting use of the I joists. each is cantilevered to the middle.

    Did you consult any tables or info related to the joists to indicate this is a good idea?

    In general, they need specific bracing to make sure the joist stays upright.

    the maker of the LVL beams and your I joist maker should have tables and other info to help you make decisions.

    Once you have that sorted out, you need to consult a beam table to answer your original question,

  4. User avater
    ct_yankee | Jan 10, 2024 07:39pm | #5

    Not enough information to evaluate what you're doing.
    - Who manufactured the LVLs and what grade are they?
    - Same question concerning the I-joists.
    - What will this framing have to support (i.e. roof or other uses)?
    - Where is the project located?
    - What kind of connection between the cantilevered ends of the I-joists will be used to insure that they deflect equally?
    - Have you included shear walls at the corners of the 15' high walls?
    Definitely creative but potentially a 'house of cards.'
    [CT licensed structural engineer.]

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