Angled Joist Hangers: The Ultimate Guide

Oleh Miguel Rosenbaum Juni 13, 2023 Posting Komentar

Are you planning a deck or a porch in your backyard? Or are you working on renovating your house and adding a second floor? In either case, you need to know about angled joist hangers. These little pieces of hardware play a big role in building strong and secure structures. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about angled joist hangers.

What are Angled Joist Hangers?

Angled joist hangers are metal brackets that connect a joist to a beam at an angle. They come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the angle of the connection and the size of the lumber. The purpose of angled joist hangers is to provide support and stability to the structure by preventing the joists from twisting or bending under the weight of the load.

There are two types of angled joist hangers: skewable and non-skewable. Skewable hangers allow for more flexibility in the installation, as they can be adjusted to fit the angle of the joist. Non-skewable hangers are fixed at a specific angle and cannot be adjusted.

Why are Angled Joist Hangers Important?

Using angled joist hangers is essential for creating a secure and stable structure. Without them, the joists would be prone to twisting or bending, which could lead to the collapse of the entire structure. Angled joist hangers also make the installation process easier and faster, as they eliminate the need for complex joinery.

Here are some other reasons why angled joist hangers are important:

They ensure consistent spacing between the joists, which is crucial for the structural integrity of the deck or floor.
They prevent moisture from getting trapped between the joist and the beam, which can cause rot or decay over time.
They provide a stronger connection than traditional joinery methods, such as the use of nails or screws.

Common Types of Angled Joist Hangers

There are several types of angled joist hangers available on the market. Here are some of the most common ones:

LUS The LUS hanger is a non-skewable hanger that connects the joist to a single beam. It has a double-shear nailing design that provides extra strength and stability.
LSU The LSU hanger is similar to the LUS hanger, but it has a skewed design that allows for more flexibility in installation. It also has a double-shear nailing design.
LU The LU hanger is a non-skewable hanger that connects the joist to a double beam. It has a concealed-flange design that gives it a cleaner appearance.
TU The TU hanger is a non-skewable hanger that connects the joist to a triple beam. It has a concealed-flange design like the LU hanger.
HL The HL hanger is a skewed hanger that connects the joist to a single beam. It has a unique design that allows for easy installation and maximum strength.

How to Install Angled Joist Hangers

Installing angled joist hangers is a straightforward process. Here are the basic steps:

Position the hanger on the beam and mark the location of the nail holes.
Pre-drill the pilot holes for the nails.
Secure the hanger to the beam with nails.
Position the joist in the hanger and secure it with nails.

It's important to note that the installation process may vary depending on the type of hanger and the lumber size. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific details.

Tips for Using Angled Joist Hangers

Here are some tips to keep in mind when using angled joist hangers:

Always use the correct size hanger for the joist and beam.
Make sure the hanger is level before securing it with nails.
Use a minimum of two nails per nail hole, and make sure they are long enough to penetrate the beam.
Do not overdrive the nails, as this can weaken the connection.
Inspect the hangers regularly for signs of corrosion or damage.

What to Consider When Choosing Angled Joist Hangers

When choosing angled joist hangers, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:

Lumber size Make sure the hanger is compatible with the size of the lumber you are using. Using the wrong size hanger can compromise the strength and stability of the structure.
Load capacity Check the load capacity of the hanger to ensure it can support the weight of the joist and the load it will carry.
Moisture resistance Choose a hanger that is resistant to moisture, especially if it will be exposed to the elements.
Building code requirements Make sure the hanger meets the building code requirements in your area. This is especially important for safety reasons.

The Benefits of Using Angled Joist Hangers

Using angled joist hangers has several benefits, including:

Increased structural strength and stability
Faster and easier installation process
Consistent spacing between the joists
Prevention of moisture-related issues
Compliance with building code requirements

Overall, using angled joist hangers is a smart choice for anyone who wants to build a safe and secure structure.

In conclusion, angled joist hangers are an essential component of any deck or floor structure. They provide support and stability, prevent moisture-related issues, and make the installation process easier and faster. When choosing angled joist hangers, it's important to consider factors such as lumber size, load capacity, moisture resistance, and building code requirements. By using angled joist hangers, you can ensure that your structure is safe and secure for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the purpose of an angled joist hanger?

The purpose of an angled joist hanger is to connect a joist to a beam at an angle and provide support and stability to the structure by preventing the joists from twisting or bending under the weight of the load.

Q2. How do I choose the right size angled joist hanger?

Choose a hanger that is compatible with the size of the lumber you are using. Using the wrong size hanger can compromise the strength and stability of the structure.

Q3. Can I use nails instead of screws to install angled joist hangers?

Yes, nails are commonly used to install angled joist hangers. However, it's important to use the correct type and size of nail, and to make sure they are long enough to penetrate the beam.

Q4. Do I need to pre-drill the pilot holes for the nails?

Yes, pre-drilling the pilot holes is recommended to prevent splitting of the wood.

Q5. Can I use angled joist hangers for outdoor projects?

Yes, angled joist hangers can be used for outdoor projects. However, it's important to choose a hanger that is resistant to moisture, especially if it will be exposed to the elements.

Q6. How many nails should I use per nail hole?

Use a minimum of two nails per nail hole, and make sure they are long enough to penetrate the beam.

Q7. Can I reuse angled joist hangers?

It's not recommended to reuse angled joist hangers, as they may have been compromised by the previous installation.

Q8. Can I install angled joist hangers myself, or do I need a professional?

Angled joist hangers can be installed by a knowledgeable DIYer, but it's recommended to consult with a professional if you are unsure about the installation process.

Q9. How often should I inspect my angled joist hangers?

Inspect the hangers regularly for signs of corrosion or damage. The frequency of inspection will depend on the environment and usage.

Q10. What is the difference between skewable and non-skewable angled joist hangers?

Skewable hangers allow for more flexibility in the installation, as they can be adjusted to fit the angle of the joist. Non-skewable hangers are fixed at a specific angle and cannot be adjusted.