I have purchased the 20x30 cottage plans. I would like to replace the exposed yellow pine 2x12s in the great room with log beams, but I need to get this passed by the county building inspector. Anyone know what size log is required to replace these "sandwiched" 2x12s? I have a friend with some seasoned red oak logs which should be much stronger than SYP. Thanks for your guidance.
Holler if you need help :)
http://theownerbuiltcabin.com/calculators/TT/logbeamcalc.htm
"seasoned red oak logs" Sounds beautiful, hope this works out.
Wow-- I love the timbertoolbox calculators! Thanks Don_P!
The only unknown that remains to calculate the required log diameter is the loading. Does anyone know how to calculate the roof load?
Can anyone check me on this? Our local building code states the roof load to be 20 lbs/sf. Live load for sleeping rooms is 30 lbs/sf. So I am assuming 50 lbs/sf, in case of future remodeling to expand the loft over the great room.
roof load = 50 lbs/sf
the area the load is applied to = 80 sf (since 4' spacing on beams and 20' wide span)
load = 4000 lbs
Any thoughts are appreciated!
If its the loft floor your supporting then you only need to concider the floor load- normally 30# for sleeping - 40# for living areas
roof load won't be included
yes to 80sq ft- and then just use what you want for the loading 30 or 40.
If worried about the quality of the timber then just up the weight in your calcs to insure your good
Also don't forget to add the dead load, the weight of the floor system itself, to the live load figure for the total load on the floor beams. Typical lightweight construction uses 10 psf for dead load. I got there a different way but still ended up at 4000 lbs, 50 psf. ~12.5" dia logs?
ooops that'll serve me right for posting with a hangover !
Thanks to all. Much appreciated!