Floor-Systems

The floor system of a modular home includes the perimeter beam, floor joists and the floor decking. The floor system will hold a live load and provide a floor that is quiet and feels secures under foot.

Perimeter Beams / Band Joists

The perimeter beam are the boards used to frame the exterior of the module, in a sight built home the perimeter beam is considered the band joist. Since modular homes are built as self supporting components, the perimeter beam frames each module. This includes the exterior walls and the marriage walls.

Standard Perimeter Beams
- 24 Wide Homes (12" wide modules): Double 2x8s
- 28 Wide Homes (14' wide modules): Double 2x10s
- 32 Wide Homes (16' wide modules): Double 2x12s

Floor Joists

Floor joist creates the framing which supports the floor decking. The standard specs below are used to meet minimum structural state and local building codes.

Standard Floor Joists
- 24 Wide Homes (12" wide modules): 2x8s framed 16 inches on center
- 28 Wide Homes (14' wide modules): 2x10s framed 16 inches on center
- 32 Wide Homes (16' wide modules): 2x12s framed 16 inches on center

Floor Decking and Sheathing

The floor decking in modular homes is laid on top of the floor joists. Most factories will use glues and nails to attach the decking to the floor joists for a tight fit and finish.

Floor Decking Standard

5/8" Tongue and Groove Oriented Strand Board (minimum)
3/4" Tongue and Groove Oriented Strand Board (most common)

Floor System Upgrades

Floor Decking - Upgrading the floor decking can be accomplished by adding a second layer of decking to the floor system. Adding an layer of sheathing will stiffen the floor an minimize floor bounce and squeaks. In the "old" days most homes were framed with a subfloor and then hardwood flooring on top. If you are going to have carpet installed in your home, upgrading to a second layer of subfloor is a lost cost upgrade.

Floor Joist Up Grades - 24' Wide Homes - Upgrading to 2x10 is a nominal upgrade cost and will minimize floor bounce for the life of the home. When upgrading the floor joists, this will also upgrade the perimeter beams listed above.

Floor Upgrades

Upgrading your floor system is a once and done upgrade to your home. These upgrades must be completed during module construction at the factory. The benefits to upgrading your modular home's floor system include:

Less floor squeaks
Additional floor strength
Elimination of floor bounce
Solid floor system

Floor Construction

Both modular homes and stick built homes are built to your state and local building codes. Building codes are implemented to ensure your home is built to be safe and structurally sound.

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