Structural solid 2x12" joist in new home construction 2

[APRN08]

Can anyone tell me if the bored plumbing holes in these pictures compromise the structural integrity of the joists in my new home? Thank you!

 

[TehMightyEngineer]

Some of those holes are improper (the rough opening for the Y fitting and the smaller ones in the top of the other joist). However, they're easily fixed via unloading the joist with a jack, attaching some reinforcing members to the top or bottom of the joist (like 2x6's to make it into a T-shaped beam), and removing the jack(s). This fix just requires a competent carpenter in my mind.

However, whoever did the original work clearly wasn't the best. I doubt they ruined anything beyond repair or made the structure unsafe, but there may be other details outside of what this picture shows that are bad but not as obvious. I'd recommend a quick inspection by either a competent, licensed engineer or a trained person to find any other faults. Such an inspection should be relatively inexpensive.

Ian Riley, PE, SE
Professional Engineer (ME, NH, MA) Structural Engineer (IL)
American Concrete Industries

https://www.facebook.com/AmericanConcrete/

 

[APRN08]

Thank you very much for this insight. I agree that the work is spotty. Thankfully, this, and only one other area, are done like this. Unfortunately, the drywall and everything is already up, so it would need to be taken down. Thank you for your post!

 

[APRN08]

Also, would you even be able to sister that joist with the way the pipes are running?

 

[jayrod12]

Not a full depth sistering, however you could, as TME alluded to, fasten a partial height member on either side of the joist above and below the plumbing. It looks like you could possibly squeeze a 2x3 on each side of the joist below the plumbing.

 

[oldestguy]

I see this all the time, yet there is no noticeable flexing of the floor. Yes adding reinforcing will make it stronger, but the main thing it will make you feel better about it, that's all.

 

[XR250]

Honestly, I have seen alot worse in 2x10's in 50 year old house and there was no sign of deflection. If it is near the middle of the span and the joists are not spanned to their limit it is likely fine.
The concerning one to me on is the 2" pipe on the right side of the pic where they notched all the way up. Realistically, the subfloor will likely act as a flange replacement and there would be no issue.

 

[CANPRO]

I agree that this isn't too bad compared to what some plumbers are capable of. I've seen holes cut in joists over the years where I can only imagine someone laughing like a villain while they're cutting the joist.

The 2x6 to make a T is a cleaver solution to reinforce the joist, downside being if you drop 1.5" at that joist, now you have to strap the entire room with 2x4 to stay the same elevation.