Residential Building Inspector Practice Exam

What must be provided for bridging to support floor joists laterally?

1. 2x joist depth

2. 12 inches

3. Minimum grade

4. Reinforcement

The correct answer is: 2x joist depth

Bridging is a crucial component in the construction of floor systems, as it provides lateral support for floor joists, preventing them from twisting or buckling under load. The requirement for lateral support involves ensuring that the bridging is adequately sized to achieve proper stability. When it is specified that bridging must be provided at a distance of 2 times the depth of the joist, it ensures that the bridging is strong enough to support the joist effectively. This configuration creates a more robust connection between the joists, improving their overall performance by distributing loads evenly and minimizing the tendency for the joists to move out of their intended position. This standard sizing approach helps ensure that variations in joist spacing or load distribution are accommodated, thus maintaining the structural integrity of the entire flooring assembly. Therefore, using a measurement based on the joist depth, specifically 2 times that depth, is established practice that supports long-term durability and safety in residential construction.