WHY SOME FLOORS &
CEILINGS SAG
Common Terms:
- Uniform Load: Force evenly distributed over a
relatively large area (i.e. a waterbed).
- Concentrated (Point) Load: Force localized over
a relatively small area (i.e. a load-bearing post or a
woman's spike-heel shoe).
- Dead Load: Weight of permanent components such
as roofs, walls, floor, etc.
- Live Load: Loads superimposed by use and occupancy
such as people, furniture, etc.
Common Problems:
- Improper design does not account for all load the floor
must support.
- Improper construction that increases span of framing
or decreases size of framing members.
- User applies more load than anticipated for type of
occupancy.
- Structural weakening by wood rot due to water intrusion
and ponding.
Potential Damage:
- Ponding of water on exterior surfaces such as balconies
or roofs.
- Cracking of finishes such as stucco or gypsum board.
- Walking surface excessively sloped and springy.
- Squeaking floors.
Typical Solutions:
 Add
full-depth blocking between framing members to help spread
out concentrated loads to adjacent members (does not help
for uniform loads).
 Add
additional framing members to reduce the amount of load
to each member.
 Provide
additional points of support beneath the floor to reduce
the span.
Information provided by Building
Analysts, a full-service architectural and engineering firm
with many years of experience in construction litigation.
Their services include: architectural and structural investigations,
repair recommendations, preparation of exhibits and expert
testimony. Contact Building Analysts at (619) 234-8153.
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