Buildings and other structures use joists as structural elements. They are frequently used to support loads as well as to add aesthetic appeal. Depending on the type of structure and what an architect or engineer deems appropriate, there are a variety of joist designs. The web structure of a bar joist is one example of a design, and building framing can be made of wood or steel. These structural elements can also be built into a ceiling or a floor, or they can be exposed to provide a specific motif for a building’s interior design.
A single material is used in a variety of joist designs. In a truss-like structure, bar joists typically include both supports and chords. They’re suitable for almost any structure, including residential apartments and commercial office buildings. These components are also commonly used in industrial complexes, hospitals, bridges, and even stadiums. The design of these joists is usually determined by the type of building. They distribute the load of a floor or roof to the walls or foundation of a structure.
If the load can be supported by a timber frame, a wood joist design is sometimes used. These are frequently used in the construction of houses and are both decorative and structurally important. Steel joists are more commonly used in the structural engineering of large structures and bridges. These can include lightweight composite materials for supporting heavy loads in a compact space, which are sometimes built into floors and ceilings. Such elements are occasionally designed to withstand varying forces while remaining flexible.
Some structures benefit from ceiling joists, while others benefit from floor joists. When multiple joists are connected, floor boards can add stability by covering the structural components. Exposed joists can be used for interior design as well as being load bearing. Even 21st-century interior designers use them to create a nostalgic atmosphere.
The overall support system is another aspect of joist design. Both ends of the structural supports can be held in place. A cantilever joist design is one in which they are connected at one end and free-standing at the other. Architects and engineers are typically the best people to decide which design to use. There are also online tools, such as a joist calculator, that can assist in determining the best design based on the material, size, and amount of space between the joists.