What are the bracing requirements for floor joists?
• The top flange of floor joists shall be laterally braced by the application of floor fastened to the joists. The diaphragm effect of the floor must be judged to be structurally adequate for the lateral bracing of the top flange. In addition, joist bridging should start and end with two (2) spaces of solid bridging. Between the start and end spaces, a repetitive pattern of five (5) spaces of strapping, on the laterally unbraced flange, followed by one space of solid bridging can be used.
• The top flange of floor joists shall be laterally braced by the application of floor sheathing fastened to the joists. The diaphragm effect of the floor must be judged to be structurally adequate for the lateral bracing of the top flange. In addition, joist bridging should start and end with two (2) spaces of solid bridging. Between the start and end spaces, a repetitive pattern of five (5) spaces of strapping, on the laterally unbraced flange, followed by one space of solid bridging can be used. Joist bridging should be placed as follows: Span Bridging Required < 14 ft one row at mid-point 14 to 20 ft two rows at third points over 20 ft one row every 6 ft See our Lateral Bracing Details for more information.
