What should I replace my hardwood bearers with?

[squeakysim]

I’m currently replacing the bathroom floor of my 70s unit. The existing bearers are hardwood 95x70 with 900 spacing, anyone know what they can be replaced with in today’s money?? Thanks 

[EricL]

Hi @squeakysim 

I'm fairly confident that 95x70 timber bearers can be ordered from the trade desk, but please allow me to double check with our trade specialist on Monday. As soon as we have more information, we'll get back to you.

Thank you for your patience.

Eric

[EricL]

Hello @squeakysim 

We're just currently waiting for an answer from our supplier. We'll follow them up tomorrow and try and get an answer from them.

Thank you for your patience.

Eric

[EricL]

Hello @squeakysim 

Thank you for your patience, and my apologies for the delayed response. I've looked into this, and it appears that 95x70mm is not a standard size typically used for deck bearers. In most cases, deck bearers are larger—commonly 140x45mm treated pine—as they are required to carry the full load of the deck structure. The appropriate size for bearers and joists really depends on the span they’re covering, as outlined in relevant span tables.

The closest standard framing timber available is 90x45mm, which may not be a direct substitute for your current design. You may need to consider adjusting your deck framing plan to accommodate this size. I understand this might cause some inconvenience, but ensuring the right structural support will contribute to the long-term safety and durability of your deck.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[squeakysim]

No worries, thanks Eric.

I'm sure the same information applies either way, but my application is for a bathroom floor. The bearers are 95x70 as mentioned, and the joists are 90x45. I am replacing the joists with same sized LVL, but was curious to know with the spacing of piers at 900, whether LVL may be able to provide adequate strength but with a reduced profile compared to the hardwood bearers.

Do those span tables just apply to decking or all flooring?

[MitchellMc]

Hi @squeakysim,

You would need to reference the LVL supplier's span table to determine whether they could be used instead of the larger hardwood bearers. If the LVLs were from our supplier, I'd be happy to try to obtain the span table for them.

Mitchell

[squeakysim]

Okay, thanks!

Yes, they are the SMART LVLs from Bunnings. If you could assist with the interpretation of the table that would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

[MitchellMc]

Hi @squeakysim,

Here's the design guide for the SmartLVL. On page 17, it has the span table for bearers, which I've included below. Taking a look, it appears that the 90x58mm would be suitable for your floor load width of 900mm, provided it's span is less than 1800mm. 

Mitchell