Floor Joists

[Pam]

I am looking at a Southern Energy doublewide (I'm in Alabama). SE has changed their "standard features" floor joists from a 2x8 on 16" O.C. to 2x8 on 24" O.C. I am upgrading the exterior and interior walls already. Which is better - the 16" O.C. or the 24" O.C. and why.

Thanks!

[Roy Bonney]

O.C. designates "on center". This means that the floor joists, or in this case, 2" by 8" lumber, will be installed either 16" or 24" apart, measuring from the center of the joist. The closer the centers, the more load bearing capability of the floor system. Generally in the residential industry, floor joists are spaced on a center that is equally divisible into 48", the standard width of flooring material.

[jgn]

I don't know what the cost of the upgrade is but go with the 16" OC for studs,,joists and rafters because the closer together they are the less free span and the stronger. One advantage you get with MH is the maxium floor span is 16' on a 32' wide and that is supported by an I beam carriage. Makes for a strong floor if it is done right. One thing I would question is if they went to 24 OC what else did they cut back on? Your in Sunshine and Franklin country and they both make a nice home also.