BIGGER
SPANS
&
HEAVIER
LOADS
by Harris Hyman
Bar joists can span up to 50 feet on 8 foot centers in most parts of New England.
An introduction to the
concrete and steel
systems that support
light-commercial buildings
Making the move from porches,
kitchens, and small houses to lightcommercial
buildings can be exciting
for the small contractor.
The money is usually well into the six
digits. The owner wants the job done
on time, but is not likely to hassle you
on each and every ding in the drywall. If
the plans look straightforward and the
subs give good prices, things may look
great.
Maybe they are. But your skills in
residential construction will not automatically
carry over into light-commercial
buildings. The manner in which
you