Pier/Girder Placement for 1 1/2 Story

[Scott MO]

Hello,

I am planning a 1 1/2 story 18x24 with 3 rows of piers/girders.  What is the optimal placement of the outside piers/girders...directly under the outside walls or placed a few feet on the interior.  I've seen both setups on this site and, not being an engineer, was hoping you engineer-types could recommend a path.  thanks.

http://www.geocities.com/gerdessa@sbcglobal.net/girders.JPG
Scott.

[glenn kangiser]

We are only builder / trades volunteers who help out unofficially (some engineers in various fields - here off duty for liability reasons) with suggestions or things we have seen work.  PEG is a pro Builder when on duty- here at his leisure.  John R. has the schooling.  Ultimately you have to decide if the suggestions work in your situation or hire a local professional who has the benefit of being able to check out all aplicable criteria that applies to your specific situation.

That said, John mentioned that he uses the cantilevered design on the Little House plans to stiffen the floor with smaller members but would not use it on a bigger house.

I would assume you could use a design similar to his 20' wide for your 18'  wide house.  So -- directly under the outside would be it.

[Scott MO]

Thanks Glenn.  I was going to put them directly under the outside walls, but seeing the cantilever cabins made me wonder.   

Once you provided the clue, the cantilever solution makes sense.