Typically, a 2x6 deck board can support around 50 pounds per square foot (psf) when spanning 16 inches on center (OC). However, as the span decreases, the weight capacity per square foot increases. For example, if the span is reduced to 12 inches OC, the load capacity can increase to around 75 psf.
The distance a 2×6 can span is determined by the species, grade, location, use, load, and spacing. Based on building codes, a 2×6 can span anywhere from 2'-1” to 20'-8” depending on the affecting factors.
If you don't care about deflection at all, the ultimate load of a 2x6 is probably a lot higher than you think it is. 400 lb or more.
The most common lumber sizes for floor joists are 2x6, 2x8, 2x10, and 2x12. Larger joists can span across wider areas. For example, a 2x6 joist would have a 12-foot, 6-inch maximum span, and a 2x10 joist would have a 21-foot maximum span.
Based on typical frequency of knots, it's likely that there will be more knots in a 63.75-inch section than in a 31.2-inch section, and more likely that the maximum allowable knot will occur in the longer section. So in the test, a 2x12 is more likely to fail at a relatively lower stress level than a 2x6.
Joist hangers slot under and over the edge of a wooden beam over three sides. They offer much more support than just using traditional nails alone.
Ledger shall be a minimum of 2x8 nominal. Where guards are required, outside joists and rim joists shall be a minimum length of 2x8 nominal.
How much weight ceiling joists hold depends on their size and spacing and what they're made of. Wooden joists can support 50 to 100 pounds per square foot.
The 2×6 joists will sag, no doubt, says DanH. “They will probably not collapse, and the load will probably not compromise the structure.
My square feet on one MDF sheet is 12 sq ft. This multiplied by 4 is 48 sq ft. This multiplied by 3 lbs per square feet puts me at 144 lbs. 2x4 has a load bearing capacity of 20-40 lbs per linear feet.
2×6 has finished dimensions of 1-1/2 inches by 5-1/2”, or 99 ci in lineal a foot. Taking the weight calculated above (26.86 pcf) dividing by 1728 and multiplying by 99, gives the weight of a foot of Hem-Fir 2×6 as 1.539 pounds (lbs).
A 2x6 floor joist can typically span up to 12 feet and 6 inches without support. However, the distance a joist can span depends on several factors, including the spacing of the joists and the type of wood used: Spacing: For example, a 2x6 redwood or cedar joist can span eight feet if spaced 16 inches apart.
There is almost no difference in the bearing capacity — the wall's ability to support a compressive load, which is how most walls are loaded.
Drill and dowel
Position a doweling jig over the marks, and drill holes 1⁄16 " deeper than half the dowel length. On one piece, spread glue within the holes, insert the dowels, and clamp it to a flat surface. On the other piece, glue the end grain and holes, force the pieces together, and clamp until dry.
Here's why using thicker decking boards like 2×6 can be a good option for softwoods: Increased Strength and Durability: Thicker boards inherently have more mass, which can translate to increased strength and durability.
Typically, a 2x6 deck board can support around 50 pounds per square foot (psf) when spanning 16 inches on center (OC). However, as the span decreases, the weight capacity per square foot increases. For example, if the span is reduced to 12 inches OC, the load capacity can increase to around 75 psf.
It requires that decks be capable of supporting 50 lbs per square foot: 10 pounds of deadweight (the deck) and 40 pounds of live weight (people and furniture on the deck) per square foot.
Deck screws, drywall screws, and roofing nails should never be used when installing joist hangers. These fasteners are vulnerable to breaking under shear stress. They do not have the specified shear strength required.
The chemicals used in pressure-treating lumber, including fire-retardant chemicals, are corrosive to bare steel.
Standard joist hanger connection
Nails placed in all holes guarantee full load capacity. Unless specified otherwise by the designer, always use full nailing.
2 x 4 framing is generally code compliant. Here at Medeek Design we typically only specify 2 x 4 studs @ 16" o.c. spacing, for small sheds and garages with a building widths less than 16 feet. All other larger structures are generally called out with 2 x 6 exterior studs @ 16" o.c. unless specified otherwise.
Sistering a joist is a common solution for older homes with weakened or damaged floor joists and for new construction where design changes require additional support. It's an effective way to repair and reinforce weak spots in the structure.
For best long-term durability, use pressure treated lumber as floor joists in your storage shed. If you want the strongest floor joists to hold the highest weight capacity, select 2x6 floor joists in your storage shed. For average storage use, 2x4 16" O/C is a standard floor joists with good strength.