Thanks for reading my question!
I'm trying to setup a storage area in my garage. I have an RV garage which is 14.4 feet tall and no RV so right now it's useless space. I'd like to make a room above that I can store things in. Likely kids will be climbing around in there too so I want to make sure that it's not going to just fall apart on me.
The garage area is 14 feet wide from wall to wall and I'm thinking 12 feet from the back to where the area should stop. I would put ledger boards (is that the right word?) all around the edge and attach joists with hangers. Then put sheeting on top.
Here is my drawing:
So here are my questions:
Is 2×8 enough for this or should I use 2×10
If I can use the 2×8 it seems like it's less weight over all and I get 2 more inches (as my ceiling is only 14.4 feet when I divide that into 2 pieces every inch will count!)
Which way should the joists go? (across the short or the long dimension)
If I use 14 foot they are longer but I'll be using 2 more and they secure to the walls. If I span the 12 foot length the joists are shorter but will attach to the floating header (2 beams).
If I go the long distance from looking around I would want to put spacers in between the joists I believe.
Here is the layout of my garage.
Best Answer
That is the correct word
2x8 @ 16" oc in the long direction of 14' will support more than 40 psf loading
The short direction is typical as it allows for higher loading for a given joist size or conversely a smaller joist for a given load. Blocking at mid-span of the joist is necessary. In your case, to avoid a beam, which would likely be deeper than the joists and undesirable in this case, I suggest spanning the longer direction.