What Is The Joist Spacing For A Floating Deck?
Floating decks are a great way to add outdoor living space to your home without having to dig footings or pour concrete. They are also a relatively easy DIY project, but it’s important to make sure you do it right. One of the most important factors to consider when building a floating deck is the joist spacing.
What is joist spacing?
Joist spacing is the distance between the joists, which are the beams that support the decking boards. The spacing of the joists will determine the strength and stability of your deck.
What is the best joist spacing for a floating deck?
The best joist spacing for a floating deck will depend on the size and weight of the deck, as well as the type of decking material you are using. However, a good rule of thumb is to use joists that are spaced 16 inches on center. This means that the center of each joist should be 16 inches from the center of the next joist.
What happens if the joist spacing is too wide?
If the joist spacing is too wide, the deck will not be as strong or stable. This could lead to the deck sagging or even collapsing.
What happens if the joist spacing is too narrow?
If the joist spacing is too narrow, the deck will be more expensive to build and will not be as strong as it could be.
How to determine the right joist spacing for your deck
To determine the right joist spacing for your deck, you need to consider the following factors:
- The size and weight of the deck
- The type of decking material you are using
- The climate you live in
- The amount of weight you will be putting on the deck
Once you have considered all of these factors, you can use the following table to determine the best joist spacing for your deck:
| Deck size | Decking material | Climate | Weight | Joist spacing |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Small (less than 100 square feet) | Pressure-treated lumber | Mild | Light | 16 inches on center |
| Small (less than 100 square feet) | Composite decking | Mild | Light | 12 inches on center |
| Small (less than 100 square feet) | PVC decking | Mild | Light | 12 inches on center |
| Medium (100-200 square feet) | Pressure-treated lumber | Mild | Medium | 16 inches on center |
| Medium (100-200 square feet) | Composite decking | Mild | Medium | 12 inches on center |
| Medium (100-200 square feet) | PVC decking | Mild | Medium | 12 inches on center |
| Large (more than 200 square feet) | Pressure-treated lumber | Mild | Heavy | 12 inches on center |
| Large (more than 200 square feet) | Composite decking | Mild | Heavy | 12 inches on center |
| Large (more than 200 square feet) | PVC decking | Mild | Heavy | 12 inches on center |
| Small (less than 100 square feet) | Pressure-treated lumber | Cold | Light | 16 inches on center |
| Small (less than 100 square feet) | Composite decking | Cold | Light | 12 inches on center |
| Small (less than 100 square feet) | PVC decking | Cold | Light | 12 inches on center |
| Medium (100-200 square feet) | Pressure-treated lumber | Cold | Medium | 16 inches on center |
| Medium (100-200 square feet) | Composite decking | Cold | Medium | 12 inches on center |
| Medium (100-200 square feet) | PVC decking | Cold | Medium | 12 inches on center |
| Large (more than 200 square feet) | Pressure-treated lumber | Cold | Heavy | 12 inches on center |
| Large (more than 200 square feet) | Composite decking | Cold | Heavy | 12 inches on center |
| Large (more than 200 square feet) | PVC decking | Cold | Heavy | 12 inches on center |
Questions and Answers
Q: What is the minimum joist spacing for a floating deck?
A: The minimum joist spacing for a floating deck is 12 inches on center. However, it is recommended to use joists that are spaced 16 inches on center for increased strength and stability.
Q: What type of joists should I use for a floating deck?
A: The best type of joists to use for a floating deck is pressure-treated lumber. Pressure-treated lumber is treated with chemicals that make it resistant to rot and decay.
Q: How do I install joists for a floating deck?
A: To install joists for a floating deck, you will need to first lay out the deck frame. The deck frame is the perimeter of the deck and will support the joists. Once the deck frame is in place, you can install the joists by nailing them to the deck frame.
Q: How do I determine the length of the joists?
A: To determine the length of the joists, you will need to measure the distance between the deck frame and the outside edge of the deck. The joists should be long enough to extend at least 1 inch beyond the outside edge of the deck.
Q: What is the best way to protect my floating deck from the elements?
A: The best way to protect your floating deck from the elements is to seal it with a water repellent. A water repellent will help to protect the deck from moisture damage and will also help to prevent the deck from fading.
Disclaimer: The information set forth above is provided by parker independently of Wanglitou.com. Wanglitou.com makes no representation and warranties as to the authenticity and reliability of the content.author：Leanne，Please indicate the source when reprinting: https://www.wanglitou.com/what-is-the-joist-spacing-for-a-floating-deck/
