Building your shed floor is often a bit tricky. Because you have so many options in front of you. But which one is going to survive in different weather and last long?
So, which one you should choose: 2×4 or 2×6 floor shed?
The capacity of a 2×4 shed floor is up to 1000 lbs whereas a 2×6 can hold up to 7000 lbs. You will get way larger space in 2×6 than in 2×4. The durability of 2×6 is more dependable than a 2×4 shed floor. But 2×4 will cost a lot less than 2×6 shed flooring which is a positive site.
Let’s get into the article and have a detailed look.
Quick Comparison between 2×4 or 2×6 Shed Floor
The load determines the shed’s size. What are you going to store in your shed? You need a bigger floor joist, such as a 2×4 or 2×6.
2×6 is perfect if you want to store heavy items. You can choose a smaller size like 2×4 if you’re keeping lightweight stuff. But remember if you are planning to install 2×8 celling it won’t work on those.
Let’s have a quick look into all the aspects of both 2×4 and 2×6 sheds.
| Points of Comparison | 2×4 Shed | 2×6 Shed |
| Cost | Less | More |
| Spacing | Less | More |
| Capacity | Upto 1000 lbs | Upto 7000 lbs |
| Durability | Less | More |
Hope now have an overall idea of both kinds of the shed. Now let’s have a deeper look into all the benefits you’ll get from these sheds.
In-depth Comparison between 2×4 or 2×6 Shed Floor
The typical 2×6 floor joist choice is the most popular. The 2×6 is the most popular and cost-effective alternative for building your shed floor. While a 2×4 will offer fewer perks and have fewer advantages.
You may use calculators and tables to narrow down a measurement to achieve more precise results. Use a calculator to enter the required data for the floor width, floor length, and on-center spacing.
Only the number of joists you require will be determined by this measurement. Although it’s a good beginning, more is required.
But if you want to build a garage or shed over buried power lines that can be dangerous.
Strength of 2×4 or 2×6
Due to their strength, people frequently utilize 2×6 framing. In contrast to the 2×4 16″ o.c. floor frame, the strength of 2x6s is negated. It is by the fact that they are placed farther apart—24″ on the center.
The 2×6 timbers must be spaced out by 16 inches, precisely like 2×4 wall studs would be. Only then can the increased strength be realized.
They can tolerate bending better than 24 in environments subject to severe earthquakes. That’s why 2x6s are preferable.
As previously noted, well-built 2×4 framed buildings may readily bear significant heavy loads.
How Far Can You Span a 2×4 and 2×6 Floor Joist?
Again, the type of wood, its grade, and the planned weight of the wood all play a role in this.
But when you enter SPF 2×6 floor joists into the floor joist calculator mentioned above. The result is a maximum span of 9 Feet 8 Inches. And a minimum bearing length of 3 Inches at either end on 12 12-inch centers.
This is a general guideline. A 2×6 on 16″ center is the general rule of thumb for a 6-foot span. The joists should be placed closer together as the weight increases.
Depending on several variables a 2×4 floor or deck joist can span up to 6′ 7″. It is at a 16-inch spacing or 7′ 11″ with 12-inch spacing.
The maximum spans of 2×4 joists with 16-inch and 24-inch spacings are 7 feet. I also can be 3 inches and 6 feet, 4 inches, respectively.
Now let me suggest to you some good quality hammers put your joist together.
| Hammers | |
| Amazon Basics 8-Ounce Hammer, Pink | Price |
| IRWIN Hammer | Price |
| Dewalt Dwht51048 16 Oz. Rip Claw Hammer | Price |
These are the most dependable hammers you can use.
How much weight can a 2×4 and 2×6 floor joist hold?
Vertically, a 2×4 can hold up to 1,000 pounds. The most common type of lumber used to construct a house’s interior. Sometimes also exterior walls are this dimensional lumber.
2x4s are typically grouped together to form a wall. That is 16 inches apart when used as wall studs.
The Building Codes state that a 2×6 can support 53 lbs per linear foot when placed on edge. It can withstand 662 to 998 pounds when used as a column or 7061 pounds. When encased and blocked in a wall before buckling.
A 26 is capable of supporting greater weight than its 4 lb per linear foot before deflection rating. When it is flat on the ground.
Cost
As you can see 2×6 is a larger and stronger floor shed. Where 2×4 is a smaller and even weaker floor shed. So it a common sense that a 2×6 floor shed will be more costly than a 2×4 floor shed.
But is that cost worth it? We think it is worth it because you can get way more space in a 2×6 shed than in a 2×4. Then 2×6 will last longer and give you enough security.
Which One You Should Choose?
It basically depends on the load you want to put on your shed. Generally, we can see that a 2×6 shed can take way more load than a 2×4. And 2×6 shed last longer than 2×4.
So if you are planning for a long-term shed where you can store so many goods then you should go for 2×6.
But you can plan for a short-term and a small number of goods. Then 2×4 will work perfectly. And don’t forget to maintain enough safety.
FAQs
What is best for shed flooring?
Rolls of vinyl are an excellent option for a shed’s floor in general. Vinyl is waterproof, non-slip, and resistant to the majority of common home pollutants. Additionally, cleaning it is simple. In addition, vinyl tiles can be used in place of vinyl rolls.
How do I keep my shed floor from rotting?
The most vulnerable area to rot in your shed is where the floor system meets the ground. To provide optimum airflow, your storage facility should be somewhat raised. The entire floor frame needs to be constructed out of weatherproof materials for maximum effects.
Should I put plastic under my shed floor?
Yes, plastic under the shed can help. A shed without heat or air conditioning does not require a moisture barrier. Since dampness and mold, the development will result. If you build your shed on a concrete slab, a plastic barrier beneath the slab will stop moisture. It is used for penetrating the concrete.
Conclusion
Hope you have got all the ideas about the 2×4 or 2×6 shed floor. So, now let us know what shed you are going to prepare.
If you have any more queries let us know in the comment section. We will try to reach out to you soon.
Till then stay happy stay safe.