If you’re unfamiliar with certain hardware pieces, specific types of construction, woodworking, and more, you may have asked: What is a joist hanger and what are they used for? The following will be some information about the parts themselves and precisely what joist hangers are used for.
What Are Joist Hangers?
Joist hangers are used as supporting aids in the construction of residential structures to secure and support joists. They allow wooden beams and joists to be hung on other beams that are larger. To create a strong connection between a beam and joists, joist hangers are exclusively used above ceilings and underneath floors. They can also be used to support the platform of a deck, which is, in essence, a floor.
Joist hangers are used in order to avoid a specific problem: Warping and twisting can develop over time when joists directly rest on beams.
They're not allowed to deform, however, and their movement is restricted because joist hangers tightly secure the joists in place.
Joist Hangers – Installation
Over the sides and edge of a beam, joist hangers are installed. Using galvanized screws and nails, they are fixed in place.
To form a rigid connection, the attached connecting plates for these hangers are nailed into beams and joists. Joist hangers can be welded, in addition to being screwed and nailed, which would make their usage far more versatile. Over time, these are very cost-effective parts that have an easy installation process.
Joist Hangers vs. Weight
What kind of joist hangers should you install? You must take into consideration the weight and size of the joists.
- 2 x 12 joist hangers: Minimum vertical 850-pound bearing capacity
- 2 x 10 joist hanger: Minimum 605-pound capacity
- 2 x 8 joist hangers: Minimum 540-pound capacity
- 2 x 6 joist hangers: Minimum 305-pound capacity
Hanger Types and Connections
There are two primary material types of joist hangers – timber-to-masonry and timber-to-timber – though they can come in all sorts of sizes and shapes. The following details the two primary material connections and the various types of hangers that can be used.
Timber-to-timber:
- I-joist hanger
Timber-to-masonry:
- Welded masonry return joist hanger
- Welded masonry joist hanger
Timber-to-Masonry Joist Hangers
To make connections between masonry walls and wooden joists, timber-to-masonry joist hangers are used. The need for masonry wall extra support hole drilling is eliminated by the use of these joist hangers.
Timber-to-Timber Joist Hangers
An efficient, fast way to connect wooden joists to boards and wood beams is offered by timber-to-timber joist hangers. With basically no drilling requirements, they are easy to install.
Now that you're familiar with joist hangers for floors, ceilings, decks (and other applications), where can you purchase the tools, materials, and accessories for your next project? Here's where to begin your next shopping excursion…
Looking for Wood Connectors? We've Got You Covered!
Connectors, straps, anchors, or clips—you name it, Factory Direct Supply carries it. Take for example our Simpson Strong-Tie rafter hanger with Zmax finish. The unique design of this product enables the hangar to be installed either after or before the rafter is in place. Job efficiency is improved courtesy of the field adjustable seat by eliminating special order-associated lead times and mismatched angles in the field. Want to find out more? Head over to FactoryDirectSupplyOnline.com today to browse our full range of products!
