Garage Guide
Garage needs storage. I would like to frame a portion of the ceiling with 2x8x20 across the span. ?
I think this is a little long but can I double the 2x8 to make it work? Or will I have to go to a 2x10x20 for the span? I planned the storage above the top plate, there is an issue with the roof line will not allow due to the 4/12 pitch of the roof. I will have to cut down in either case. I will have 2x4 rafters at 16oc. Using Doug Fir, 1/2" plywood surface and maybe sheet rock for the lid. The storage is planned above a sectional garage door in a open space under the roof. Comments? The garage door has an opener and it does open on the top. This door has a 7’ span when it opens. My plan is to use the space above the door for now. I have to move a laundry area before I can make more storage on the opposite end. It seems that you never have enough storage. Thanks Katzy Thanks everyone, I found this on the net. Ceiling Joists System 240 deflection Lumber Species S-P-F D.Fir- Lumber Grades No.1 & No.2. Lumber Size 2 X 10 Lumber Spacing 16 o.c. Live and Dead Loads Member Type Ceiling Joists System 240 deflection Lumber Species S-P-F Lumber Grades No.1 & No.2 Lumber Size 2 X 10 Lumber Spacing 16 o.c. Live and Dead Loads 20 Live & 10 Dead (drywall, no future rooms & limited attic storage) Allowable lumber span + 19 feet - 10 inches This is going to be close.
Public Comments
- Do you have a garage door opener and does the garage open upward? Mine does but at the end of my double car garage there is still room at the ceiling at the end. So I had someone built a storage area in the back of the garage across the entire width and about 2ft deep. My cars can still go under the storage area. But it has given me a huge area to use as storage. They have a ladder type steps going up.
- You need an architectural engineer to look over your design requirements to determine the correct size of lumber and spacing, for the expected load.
- to span 20' you need to use 2x12 at 16" centers or get some engineered floor joists will be lighter and easier to put in place.to get engineered joists you would need to talk to building supply store to order them.if you use conventional lumber (2x12)you need to use one long piece to piecing 2 together unless they are supported in the middle with a beam then you could go with 2x6 10 feet long at 16" centers
