calculating dead load?

Started by Pure L on 1 May 2010. 3 replies.

Originally posted at johnlsayers.com, topic 14337.

Pure L1 May 2010#1

On page 238 of Rod's book (~ 6th paragraph), he says:

The existing floor joists are 2 x 10 Hem/Fir #2 construction grade, installed at 16" centers. Out-to-out bearing is 11' 4 1/4", there is 3/4 T&G decing above, with the 3/4" oak flooring above that over the live room, and carpet with pad over the control room/iso-booth. The total existing dead load is 7.68 psf above the live room.

How was this dead load calculated? Thanks.

Soundman20201 May 2010#2

I may be wrong, but as far as I know it is the total weight of all the construction materials used, divided by the surface area of the floor. - Stuart -

rod gervais2 May 2010#3

Stu is exactly correct. There are many sources you can check for the various weights of material - sometimes there is a range - in which case (to be safe) you should calculate using the higher number. Just Google "material weights" to start...... Rod

Pure L3 May 2010#4

Got it. Many thanks, Stuart and Rod.