If floor joists need to support extra weight, what should be done to the joist spacing?

When floor joists need to support extra weight, it is essential to modify the joist spacing to ensure adequate load-bearing capacity. Bringing the joists closer together or doubling the joists effectively increases the strength and stability of the flooring system.

Closer spacing means that the load is distributed over a larger number of joists, reducing the stress on each individual joist. Doubling the joists in particular areas can help mitigate the potential for sagging or failure under increased weight. This approach not only enhances load distribution but also contributes to overall structural integrity.

While adding additional beams can also help support extra weight, adjusting the spacing of the floor joists directly addresses the load capacity needed at the joist level. Therefore, modifying the spacing of the joists is a proactive measure to ensure that the floor system can handle the increased load safely.