Structural calculationPrice on requestWhat is assessed?
Strength and deflection matter for timber floor joists. Vibration, connections between the joists and the condition of existing beam ends can also affect the assessment.
Provide the complete floor structure. A new screed floor, bathroom or storage function may require different principles than a light living floor.
What data is needed?
The following information can be used to prepare the assessment. The structural engineer determines whether additional research is necessary.
- Beam sizes and center-to-center distances
- Spans and supports
- Existing and new floor structure
- Intended use
What do you receive?
Record the exact delivery in the quotation. Depending on your project and assignment, this involves:
- Assessment of the beam layer
- Possible reinforcement effect
- Connection details within the order
Discuss who will take care of the architectural development, supplier details and any temporary support. In this way, the components involved are coordinated.
Materials and drawings
The choice of materials and connections follow from the design. Read more about Structural timber and the difference between a architectural drawing and a construction drawing.
How does the process proceed?
You describe your project and share the available data. The assignment, any additional information and planning are then coordinated. Check it out complete step-by-step plan for all phases.
What does your assignment cover?
A floor can have sufficient strength yet feel bouncy or vibrate. Describe what you experience and the finishes you plan to add. For strengthening, ask how new elements work with existing joists and how joist ends are assessed.
Can I already order material?
Order structural parts based on the coordinated and current design data. A preliminary estimate is not a complete basis for this.
Is a site visit necessary?
That depends on the project and the available information. Sometimes drawings and photos are sufficient for the inventory; sometimes an admission or additional examination is necessary.
What happens if my plan changes?
Report changes before they are implemented. The structural engineer assesses whether calculations and drawings need to be adjusted.
From data to a detailed plan
Checklist for your application
| Given | What you prepare |
|---|---|
| Beam sizes and center-to-center distances | Gather the most recent available data and identify what is missing. |
| Spans and supports | Gather the most recent available data and identify what is missing. |
| Existing and new floor structure | Gather the most recent available data and identify what is missing. |
| Intended use | Gather the most recent available data and identify what is missing. |
- Describe your complete construction plan.
Investigate whether the existing or new beam layer suits the use, span and floor structure.
- Discuss missing data.
The structural engineer determines which site survey or additional information is required for the agreed assessment.
- Record order and delivery.
Agree on the calculated parts, drawings, price and planning.
- Coordinate the design with the construction work.
Use the current documents and have relevant changes reviewed before they are implemented.
Frequently asked questions about timber floor joists
Are beam sizes sufficient to assess a wooden floor?
No. Span, distance between beams, material data, condition, supports and floor structure are also relevant. The assessment must also be in line with the intended use and any new openings or loads.
Why is deflection considered for a wooden floor?
In addition to strength, deformation and vibration behavior can be important for use and finishing. A heavier or stiffer floor structure can have other consequences than just extra weight. Discuss the entire structure with the designers involved.
Related structural topics
Your project location
Provide the building address and share available drawings and photographs. Discuss whether a site survey is needed and which travel or investigation costs form part of the commission.