Wood Weight Capacity Calculator for Flooring
Here’s a comprehensive table showing typical wood flooring types, their thickness, and estimated weight-bearing capacities:
| Wood Type/Material | Thickness | Max. Load Capacity (psf) | Common Usage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plywood (Subfloor) | 3/4″ (19mm) | 100-150 psf | Standard residential flooring | Requires joist spacing 16″ O.C. |
| OSB (Oriented Strand Board) | 3/4″ (19mm) | 100-150 psf | Residential subfloor | Similar performance to plywood |
| Solid Hardwood Flooring | 3/4″ (19mm) | 120-150 psf | Residential floors | Must be installed over proper subfloor |
| Engineered Wood Flooring | 1/2″ – 5/8″ | 100-150 psf | Residential/commercial flooring | Stable, good load distribution |
| Particle Board | 3/4″ (19mm) | 75-100 psf | Limited residential flooring | Weaker structurally; susceptible to moisture |
| Timber Joists (Standard 2×8) | 1.5″x7.25″ | 40-60 psf (typical spacing 16” O.C.) | Residential floor support | Capacity dependent on joist spacing and span |
| Timber Joists (Standard 2×10) | 1.5″x9.25″ | 50-70 psf (typical spacing 16” O.C.) | Residential/heavy flooring | Better load-bearing than 2×8 |
| Timber Joists (Standard 2×12) | 1.5″x11.25″ | 60-80 psf (typical spacing 16” O.C.) | Heavy-duty residential or commercial | Strongest standard joist |
Key Considerations:
- Joist Spacing significantly impacts weight capacity (typical residential spacing: 16 inches on-center).
- Moisture and humidity can reduce capacity over time, especially in particle board and plywood.
- Local building codes typically dictate minimum load capacities required.
- Live Load (furniture, occupants) vs. Dead Load (flooring material itself): standard residential floors usually designed for 40 psf live load, commercial may require 50-100 psf.
- Always confirm with local building standards or an engineer for specific applications or heavy loads (such as gyms, libraries, or heavy equipment).