Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Dec 28, 1998 12:22pm | #1

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   Increase the depth of joist or reduce the span? WOW...not exactly pushing the edge of the engineering envelope now, are we...

   I don't mean to belittle your essay, but it wsn't quite what I expected. Several ideas bounced around on this site in the past few weeks regarding floor stiffness include, but are not limited to:

   -Engineered I-joists vs stick lumber.

   -increasing depth of wood I-beam vs same depth but increased flange

   -3/4 TG ply vs 1 1/8" subfloor

   -On the same note as above, 1 1/8th vs a combined
   3/4 sub and 3/8 or 1/2 underlay.

   -Use of adhesive between subfloor and underlayment

   -Bridging and blocking, pros and (mostly) cons

   -Applying sheet goods to the underside of the floor joists.

   -Sistering joists, or doubling up every second or third to increase stiffness

   These are just a few topics I can recall at this ridiculous hour in the morning, yet an "engineering" paper, which I assume was prepared over a period of time by a distinguished individual from a fine learning institution offers "...increase joist depth by one size..." and "...reduce the joist span..."? Yes, you offered a referral to a JLC article which may address additional and hopefully, more practical suggestions, but since a link was not included to that article, my comments are directed solely at your writing.

   You asked for comments, and I responded. More then anything, my expectations were shattered. I was hoping to find a detailed, factual and succinct discussion pertaining to the subject you offered.

   What is your target audience, by the way? It appears your suggestions of increased depth and reduced span are aimed at new construction, during the design phase. However, my impressions of your site are that the site is directed at home inspectors who are reviewing houses as part of a purchase agreement for either the buyer or seller.

   Perchance, did I miss a link somewhere and only view a portion of your offering?

2. 
   Frank_Woeste | Dec 28, 1998 12:37pm | #2

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   Our practical information for preventing bouncy residential floors is now accessible on the Web at:
   http://www.inspectamerica.com/html/bouncing_floors.html

   Your comments are welcome.
   Frank Woeste, P. E., Professor, Virginia Tech