Structural terms

Joist

A joist is a horizontal member, usually timber or steel, that helps support a floor or roof by spanning between structural supports.

Joists form a repeating framework beneath floors and within some roofs. Their direction, spacing, size and support determine how the structure carries its loads. Floorboards and finishes can conceal their position.

During renovation of an Edinburgh flat, locating joists helps plan openings, plumbing runs, floor repairs and changes to room layout. Cutting or notching them without checking the design can weaken the floor, particularly near the ends where they bear on walls.

Older timber joists may have been altered by previous work or affected by moisture at their bearings. The term floor joist describes the members supporting a floor specifically.

Property types

Commonly found in

Tenement Georgian Townhouse Victorian Villa Terraced House Traditional Cottage Georgian Flat Converted Flat Detached House Semi-detached House

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Structural Alterations

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