Engineered Floor Joists

I would appreciate some feedback on the relative merits of the various types of engineered floor joists that are available for upper story construction. I will be spanning 8 metres with a load bearing wall at 4 metres.

It seems that the major difference is the construction of the web. Some are made from ply, some from stuff that looks like chipboard and there are various metal configurations.

I suspect the metal ones are better for the installation of between floor services but I am inclined to regard stiffness as the most important criteria.

Thanks.

Here goes, but if I miss any or any one else feels that what I have said is incorrect please post away. <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

- Posi-Strut, timber chords with steel “v” shaped chords. Good spans, lots of space for running services.<o:p></o:p>

- Hyspan; Solid LVL sections available in thickness from 36mm to 65mm. <o:p></o:p>

- Hybeam; “i” beams with plywood chords (top / bottom) and plywood web (center)
Hyne I Beam Finger Joined MGP15 pine chords and plywood web. (out spans Hybeam and is gives better nailing fixing into the timber rather than the plywood chords.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

For second storey addition, floor joists carrying roof load. Continues span. 4mt max span. Hybeam HJ240 should do it BUT check with engineer / manufacture<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Metung

I will be spanning 8 metres with a load bearing wall at 4 metres.

---

I hope there is something underneath to carry the load at 4M??

Al :eek:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by ozwinner

I hope there is something underneath to carry the load at 4M??

Al :eek:

---

Unless of course you're using a 250/10mm steel H beam!

I regard engineered floor joists, LVL's etc as a "why-the-hell-havent-we-been-using-thempfor-years kind of thing. They were invented in the 50's (in Sweden I think) and display superior properties compared to their competitors. Anyway, spec sheets abound from the manufacturers that should put any concerns to rest - as youre in Melbourne, give Archi-Centre a ring and the will load you down with all the answers you need.

I regard engineered floor joists, LVL's etc as a "why-the-hell-havent-we-been-using-thempfor-years kind of thing. They were invented in the 50's (in Sweden I think) and display superior properties compared to their competitors. Anyway, spec sheets abound from the manufacturers that should put any concerns to rest - as youre in Melbourne, give Archi-Centre a ring and they will load you down with all the answers you need.