Op-Ed
Myths About Cross-Bracing
Forgive the nitpicking, but a minor correction to Revolutionary V-Joist System article (EBN
Bridging or bracing, whether crossed, solid, or metal, does little to stiffen floors or spread the loads. Both the Forest Products Laboratory and NAHB Research Foundation demonstrated some 30 years ago that it doesn’t work.The three model building codes, including CABO
The One And Two Family Dwelling Code, have eliminated bridging from the codes as long as the floor loads do not exceed 40 psi and joist depth does not exceed 12 inches. Therefore, bridging is not required with 2x6, 2x8, 2x10 or 2x12 floor joists. Canadian code allows a piece of 1x3 strapping in lieu of bridging.
The widespread use of bridging results from ignorance or from code enforcement officers who ignore the code.
Keep up the good work.
Gene Leger
Leger Designs
New Boston, NH
Published September 1, 1994 Permalink Citation
(1994, September 1). Myths About Cross-Bracing. Retrieved from https://www.buildinggreen.com/op-ed/myths-about-cross-bracing
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