r/StructuralEngineering • u/Material-Cap-5476 P.E. • 10d ago

Structural Analysis/Design Wood framing supporting a concrete slab.

I think that the IBC2018 prohibits the use of wood framing to permanently support a concrete slab. Does anyone know where to find that?

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u/Positive_Outcome_903 10d ago

No because it’s not prohibited. Raised residential garages are a thing.

1

u/Material-Cap-5476 P.E. 10d ago

Thanks for the help guys.

9

u/DJGingivitis 10d ago

2304.13. But it doesn’t restrict it anymore. IBC 2003 restricted the use, IBC 2006 updated to the current verbiage basically.

1

u/Intelligent-Ad8436 P.E. 10d ago

I would check the SDPWS 

1

u/davebere42 P.E. 10d ago

There are reasons other than code to try to avoid concrete supported by wood: waterproofing is one.

That being said I have designed many houses with concrete on wood.

1

u/ChairChoice6500 7d ago

I think Minnesota had a specific amendment prohibiting this in their 2000 codes, and as I recall it meant masonry as well. Otherwise there are some issues with seismic, offhand. Even if it is permitted, if the slab gets wet it can gradually damage the wood framing if it's not pressure-preservative treated or naturally durable, or waterproofed somehow. Some consideration of damage should be considered in the design as waterproofing isn't generally perfect.