For a residential floor system with 16" joist spacing, what is the maximum allowable span for 2x10 Southern Pine joists (Grade #2) supporting a live load of 40 psf?
Correct Answer
D) 15'-2"
According to standard span tables, 2x10 Southern Pine #2 grade joists at 16" on center can span approximately 15'-2" for a 40 psf live load. Span tables account for deflection limits and bending strength requirements.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option D (15'-2
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 18'-0"
18'-0" exceeds the maximum allowable span for 2x10 Southern Pine #2 joists at 16" spacing with 40 psf live load. This span would result in excessive deflection beyond L/360 limits and could cause structural failure, floor bounce, and cracking in finishes.
Option B: 16'-8"
16'-8" is too long for the specified conditions. While closer to the correct span than option A, it still exceeds the maximum allowable span of 15'-2" for 2x10 Southern Pine #2 joists at 16" on center supporting 40 psf live load.
Option C: 13'-6"
13'-6" is unnecessarily conservative and represents an underutilization of the joist's capacity. While structurally safe, this span is significantly shorter than the maximum allowable 15'-2", resulting in inefficient material usage and increased construction costs.
Memory Technique
Remember '15-2-40-16': 15'-2" max span for 40 psf live load at 16" spacing for 2x10 Southern Pine #2. The numbers flow in descending order of magnitude.
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