I have an addition that was originally going to be built as a step down of about 4 inches. After thinking about it, we decided "THAT'S STUPID".

Problem is, the floor joists and rough plumbing are already in.

Is there any practical way to increase the height of the joists without ripping them out and starting over while maintaining structural integrity over the long haul? Can 2x4's and some type of bracketing be used to raise the final subfloor height?

Thanks for any suggestions.

One step, especially such a small one, is never a wise decision. Your architect should have talked you out of it.

You can lay 2x4's perpendicular to the existing joists, and place your new subfloor on them. They will need to be 16 inches on center, and securely nailed or screwed to the existing joists.

Before undertaking the time, effort, and expense of raising your floor, be certain that, in doing so, you don't compress your ceiling height off the "new" floor so that it feels too close to your head. Check your local codes for minimum allowable ceiling height. Overall, a step down, with normal, or vaulted, ceiling is preferable to a flush floor with a short, claustrophobic ceiling.

Hello Richard,
Your post said it's never a wise decision to install a one-step level change, especially a small one.
I certainly understand wanting to avoid a small step change, but I'm curious to know why it is inadvisable to make a normal 7" to 8" step down, especially if the ceilings are relatively low to start with...
I'm converting our old garage into a family room and I really need some more ceiling height if I can get it......Thanks

The reason is this: you and your family will become accustomed to the one step. You'll know it's there, and will peobably have no problems. But vistors to your home, especially elderly, or those with poor eyesight, will possibly not see the step, and may fall.

My rule of thumb is: no steps or three steps.
Anything less than 3 steps, either make the floors level, or use a ramp instead.

If you MUST use one step, then make the floor finishes above and below the steps highly contrasted with each other. Don't make them the same or close in color.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Richard Hetzel,

Oh, and if you're converting a garage into lving space, be sure there is a vapor retarder under the floor slab, or there could be moisture problems and musty smells. Often in older garage floors, the vapor retarder was omitted.

Some codes require a minimum number of steps or risers. I recall taking quite a fall at a chapel (Chapel of the cross?) sitting on the side of an Arizona Mountain several years ago. I was alone, at sundown, very cold, and without a jacket. Shivering, I left the building and hurriedly descended the long ramp in the dim light. I never saw the single step at the end of the ramp. I flew through the air and dug into the gravel parking area freezing, numb and unable to determine if all parts were working. I dragged myself to my car and pulled myself aboard and to the heater. I was stunned but luckily, only battered and brused. I can't imagine why any architect (and I'm one) would put a single step at the end of a ramp!