Deck joist connections are crucial for the stability and safety of your deck. Properly installed joist connections ensure that the deck can bear loads, resist uplift, and prevent lateral displacement. This blog will cover key aspects of deck joist connections, building code requirements, and solutions provided by Simpson Strong-Tie.
Joists Terminating into Beam or Ledger
When joists terminate into a beam or ledger, a secure connection is required for both bearing and uplift resistance. Simpson Strong-Tie offers a variety of joist hangers designed to meet these needs.
Simpson Strong-Tie Solutions
HUS/LUS Joist Hanger
- Features: Provides bearing and uplift resistance, double-shear nailing for added strength.
- Materials: Available in ZMAX® and Type 316 stainless steel.
HUC/LUC Concealed Flange Joist Hanger
- Features: Bearing and uplift resistance, concealed flanges for a cleaner look.
- Materials: Available in ZMAX and Type 316 stainless steel.
APLH Outdoor Accents® Light Joist Hanger
- Features: Bearing and uplift resistance, concealed flanges, ZMAX with black powder coating.
- Fasteners: Uses black SD10112DDBB fasteners.
APHH Outdoor Accents Heavy Joist Hanger
- Features: Bearing and uplift resistance, concealed flanges, ZMAX with black powder coating.
- Fasteners: Uses STN22 washer and SDWS22312DBB fasteners.
Building Code Requirements
Bearing
- IRC 2018/2021 Section R507.6.1: Joist ends must have at least 1.5″ of bearing on wood or metal.
- IBC 2018/2021 Section 2308.4.2.2: Similar requirements for joist bearing.
Joists Framing into Ledger or Beam
- IRC 2018/2021 Section R507.6.1: Joists must be supported by approved joist hangers.
Cantilevered Applications
- IRC 2018/2021 Section R507.8: Cantilevered framing must resist uplift from full live load.
- IBC 2018/2021 Section 1604.8.3: Similar requirements for cantilevered decks.
Skewed Joist Hangers
SUR/SUL Skewed Joist Hanger
- Features: 45° skewed hanger, available in left and right versions, provides bearing and uplift resistance.
- Materials: ZMAX coating or stainless steel required.
LSSJZ/LSSRZ Field-Skewable Joist Hanger
- Features: Field skewable up to 45°, provides bearing and uplift resistance, field slopeable up or down to 45°.
- Materials: Available with ZMAX coating.
Joists Bearing on a Beam
When joists bear on top of a beam, proper connections are necessary to resist lateral and uplift forces. Blocking or framing is also required to prevent rotation.
Simpson Strong-Tie Solutions
HTSQ Twist Strap
- Features: Designed to resist uplift for decks and beams.
- Materials: Available in ZMAX® and stainless steel.
H1Z Hurricane Tie
- Features: Holds joist on both sides, provides uplift resistance.
- Materials: Features ZMAX coating.
H2.5A Hurricane Tie
- Features: Suitable for single-sided applications, provides uplift resistance.
- Materials: Available in ZMAX and stainless steel.
Building Code Requirements
Positive Connections
- IRC 2018/2021 Section R502.9: Positive connections must be provided to ensure against uplift and lateral displacement.
- IBC 2018/2021 Section 2304.10.7, 2304.10.8: Similar requirements for floor framing support.
Lateral Restraint
- IRC 2018/2021 Section R507.6.2: Joist ends and bearing locations must have lateral restraint to prevent rotation.
- IBC 2018/2021 Section 2308.4.2.3: Similar requirements for joist restraint.
Mechanical Connectors
- IRC 2018/2021 Section R507.6.1: Joists bearing on a single-ply beam or ledger must be attached by a mechanical connector. For multi-ply beams, follow Table R602.3(1).
Conclusion
Ensuring proper deck joist connections is essential for building a safe and durable deck. By following building code requirements and using high-quality solutions from Simpson Strong-Tie, you can achieve secure and compliant deck construction. Always consult with a qualified professional to verify that your deck’s joist connections meet all necessary standards.
For immediate service or consultation, you may contact us at Allied Emergency Services, INC.
Contact Information:
- Phone: 1-800-792-0212
- Email: Info@AlliedEmergencyServices.com
- Location: Serving Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana with a focus on the greater Chicago area.
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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. For professional advice, consult experts in the field.
