How To Install Floor Joist Cross Bracing

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.

How to install floor joist cross bracing.

Other versions are just as easy to install and inexpensive. How to brace your floor studs. 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. Outside joists may not be spaced at 16 oc or may need to adjust to get the proper fit for decking.

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. 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. Pieces are usually precut on a radial arm saw. Bridging is sized for joists centered 16 in.

As a footstep falls on one joist some of the force is transferred to neighboring joists. Bridging or x bracing allows joists to share weight. On top of that will be your main floor. Adding two rows of bridging costs a few dollars per joist.

Measure the joist spacing before you go shopping. The usual procedure is to fasten only the top end of the cross bridging. Step 2 sagging floor joists. On top of the floor joists is the subfloor which is typically a sheer or sheets of plywood.

End with 6d or 8d nails. Nails are started at each end before the cross bridging is placed between the joists. Cross bracing and solid blocking. Bracing will stiffen a floor system prevent floor joists from twisting and increase overall stability however there are actually two types of floor joist bracing commonly used.

To install the type shown here drive the toothed end into the joist and nail the other end. 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. Figure 2 incorrect installation of cross bridging. Leave outside joists for last and install blocking from underneath.

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. Cross bridging is toenailed at each figure 1 26 wood cross bridging.