How To Install Floor Joist Cross Bracing

Bridging is removed to allow for the installation of duct work as shown in figure 3 dryer vent pipes plumbing drains water pipes and.

How to install floor joist cross bracing.

Adding two rows of bridging costs a few dollars per joist. Bridging or x bracing allows joists to share weight. As shown in figure 2 it is not unusual especially in new homes to find that the cross bridging has not been nailed to the bottom of the floor joists. Even if your joists already have a row of bridging at the center of the span adding a row on each side of the existing bridging will stiffen the floor.

Mike installs galvanized steel briding in between the floor joists on this bedroom addition project in rocky hill ct. Whether your home is new or old it is sometimes necessary to install floor joist bracing in order to eliminate squeaking and deflection in the flooring itself. When you reach the underside of the floor you will be able to see several things. It is installed as shown in figure 1 26.

The usual procedure is to fasten only the top end of the cross bridging. Cross bridging is toenailed at each figure 1 26 wood cross bridging. Measure the joist spacing before you go shopping. Outside joists may not be spaced at 16 oc or may need to adjust to get the proper fit for decking.

Other versions are just as easy to install and inexpensive. Pieces are usually precut on a radial arm saw. Leave outside joists for last and install blocking from underneath. How to brace your floor studs.

Step 2 sagging floor joists. Nails are started at each end before the cross bridging is placed between the joists. Figure 2 incorrect installation of cross bridging. On top of the floor joists is the subfloor which is typically a sheer or sheets of plywood.

On top of that will be your main floor. You will have the floor joists which cross one another to form a grid. Residential building code requires the use of cross bracing or blocking for floor joists exceeding 2 inches by 12 inches but many homes especially older ones have. To install the type shown here drive the toothed end into the joist and nail the other end.

As a footstep falls on one joist some of the force is transferred to neighboring joists. Bridging is sized for joists centered 16 in. On a low deck where blocking cannot be installed from underneath stretch a string from the house to the outside edge along each outside joint for a reference.