Which connection should be used when an I-joist and a beam meet?

Which connection should be used when an I-joist and a beam meet?

• A. Metal framing ties
• B. Metal hurricane clips
• C. Railing Tie
• D. Joist hanger

Answer: (D)

When you connect a joist to a beam, you need a connector that provides a positive load path and keeps the joist where it’s supposed to be. A joist hanger does exactly that: it fits around the end of the joist and bears on the beam, transferring the joist’s loads into the beam while maintaining the proper angle and alignment. It’s sized and rated for the joist material (including I-joists when using an approved hanger) and installed with the manufacturer’s recommended fasteners. Other options are used for different purposes—metal framing ties are general-purpose and don’t provide the dedicated end support for a joist; hurricane clips resist wind uplift on roofs; railing ties are for guardrails. So the joist hanger is the appropriate choice for connecting an I-joist to a beam.

When you connect a joist to a beam, you need a connector that provides a positive load path and keeps the joist where it’s supposed to be. A joist hanger does exactly that: it fits around the end of the joist and bears on the beam, transferring the joist’s loads into the beam while maintaining the proper angle and alignment. It’s sized and rated for the joist material (including I-joists when using an approved hanger) and installed with the manufacturer’s recommended fasteners. Other options are used for different purposes—metal framing ties are general-purpose and don’t provide the dedicated end support for a joist; hurricane clips resist wind uplift on roofs; railing ties are for guardrails. So the joist hanger is the appropriate choice for connecting an I-joist to a beam.