Ceiling joists with some storage

[foolio]

First question although this I have learned a lot from the board. Thanks, everyone.

I built/had built a 40x60x14 pole barn. Inside, along one side, I am building out a 40x12x8 workshop. This workshop area is separate because I will both heat and cool it. The rest are of the barn is radiant for just heat. In any case, I want to use the space above the shop as storage. Nothing crazy. Mostly boxes of household stuff like Christmas decorations, unused small pieces of furniture, cars parts, maybe some spare wheels, etc.

From using various calculators I have found on the Internet, it looks like I should be able to span the 12’ (short way) with 2x8 24” on center. Another option would be I-joists. However, the local Menards only sells them in minimum lengths of 16’. Here’s the question: could I order the I-joists at 24’ and then cut each one in half for a 12’ i-joist which I would then put 24” OC. Would this compromise them?

Also open to any other suggestions. Thanks in advance!

 

[Chris705]

Cutting I joist in half is not a concern... but I would recommend looking at a 16” oc solution. Floor joists at 24” are typically spongy. Or you could use a 1-1/8 sheathing.

 

[foolio]

Cool, thanks for the response. I guess my thought process was since I won’t be walking around on it, deflection was less of a concern. However, I don’t want a dead load to cause it to sag over time. With cut I-joists, I am only looking at about $150 difference so that may be cheap insurance ($300 for 24oc vs. $450 for 16oc).

 

[850xpeps]

Cutting them does no damage. But ya I would go 16” on centre.

 

[why worry]

Another vote for 16" centers and 1 1/8" plywood.
Dave