Joist hangers are the perfect solution for anchoring decking, flooring and ceilings. These hangers work by connecting three sides of a wooden beam and are secured with nails or screws. Versatile and stronger than conventional fixings, joist hangers are easier to fit and are cost effective when considering the length of time they will support the joist. The fact that they are more versatile and stronger means that when installed properly, these hangers will keep your decking or flooring strong; even as the wood dries, shrinks and ages. If you’re not sure what joist hangars are or which ones to choose then click here to find out.
Step 1 – Buy the correct size for your needs.
This step is very simple; buy the correct hanger that fits the size of joist or beams you are going to.
Step 2 – Nail the joist beam to the ledger
Before using the joist hanger, you need to nail your joist beam to the wall ledger. Here you need to ensure that the top of you joist is even with the top of the ledger. This ensures that the decking will go on evenly throughout your build. Once you are sure that the joist is even, simply hammer than nail in.
Step 3 – Place the hanger
Push the hanger tightly around the joist and force the speed prongs into the ledger board. This will temporarily keep your joist in place. Ensure that the joist beam is sat squared along the hanger without any gaps under or along the joist.
Step 4 – Nail ledger first
Simply nail into the ledger first, doing this means there is no movement of the hanger. Keeping your decking even throughout.
Step 5 – Nail to the joist beam
This step varies depending on the hanger you have bought. For a standard hanger, simply nail into the joist only. When using a standard hanger continue to be wary of avoiding long nails, this avoids the nail poking through the joist on the opposite side of the joist beam.
If you have bought a double-sheared hanger, use a longer nail. You should notice you are hammering in a 45 degree angle, this ensures the nail goes through the joist and into the ledger.
At Tradefixdirect.com we offer a wide range of joist hangers, whether you’re building decking or another project you’ll find the joist hanger that suits your needs. We currently stock timber to masonry joist hangers, mini joist hangers and more.