homebuildy.com Joist hangers provide superior structural support by securely cradling the joist on multiple sides, while face mount hangers attach only to one side, often resulting in less stability. The joist hanger's design distributes load evenly, reducing the risk of wood splitting or joint failure compared to the face mount option. Choosing joist hangers enhances durability and safety in construction projects where strong load-bearing connections are essential.
Table of Comparison
| Feature | Joist Hanger | Face Mount Hanger |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Location | Underneath the joist, supporting it from below | Mounted directly on the face of the beam or ledger |
| Load Support | Provides maximum support for vertical loads | Supports load but less effective for heavy vertical weight |
| Structural Strength | Strong, designed to prevent joist twisting and sagging | Moderate strength, may allow some joist movement |
| Application | Ideal for decks, floors, and heavy framing applications | Used for lighter framing and when joist bottom clearance is limited |
| Material | Galvanized steel or stainless steel, corrosion-resistant | Steel, often galvanized but may vary |
| Cost | Generally higher due to heavy-duty design | Lower cost, simpler design |
| Code Compliance | Meets most building codes for structural joist support | Accepted for specific uses but less common in heavy load scenarios |
Joist Hanger vs Face Mount Hanger: Key Differences
Joist hangers are typically designed to securely support the end of a joist within a ledger board or beam, offering strong vertical load-bearing capacity, whereas face mount hangers attach directly to the face of a beam or ledger, providing easier installation but slightly less structural strength. Joist hangers usually feature a U-shaped bracket that cradles the joist, enhancing stability and resistance to lateral movement, while face mount hangers rely on direct nail or screw attachment without a surrounding bracket. Choosing between joist hangers and face mount hangers depends on the specific load requirements, installation conditions, and structural code compliance for decks, flooring, or roof framing projects.
What is a Joist Hanger?
A joist hanger is a metal connector designed to securely support the end of a wood joist in framing construction, providing a strong, stable connection to beams or ledger boards. Unlike face mount hangers, which attach to the face of a ledger board or beam, joist hangers cradle the joist from below and on three sides, distributing load more evenly and enhancing structural integrity. Engineered for load-bearing applications, joist hangers are essential in deck building, flooring, and ceiling framing to prevent joist rotation and uplift.
Understanding Face Mount Hangers
Face mount hangers provide a secure connection by attaching directly to the face of the supporting beam, enhancing load distribution and stability in joist installations. Unlike traditional joist hangers that fit under the beam, face mount hangers offer increased flexibility in positioning joists, making them suitable for retrofit projects and complex framing layouts. Their design optimizes structural integrity while simplifying installation in various construction applications.
Typical Applications for Joist Hangers
Joist hangers are primarily used for supporting wood joists in flooring, decks, and roof framing, providing strong vertical load transfer and stability. They are ideal for connecting joists to ledger boards or beams in situations requiring precise alignment and secure fastening. Unlike face mount hangers, joist hangers excel in applications where concealed or embedded support is necessary to maintain structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
When to Use Face Mount Hangers
Face mount hangers are ideal for applications where the joist needs to be attached directly to the face of a ledger board or beam, providing a strong and secure connection without the need for additional framing. These hangers are particularly useful in deck construction or when attaching joists to existing structures where space constraints prevent the use of traditional joist hangers. Selecting face mount hangers ensures proper load distribution and simplifies installation in exposed or retrofit projects.
Installation Methods Compared
Joist hangers require recessed placement beneath beams, ensuring structural alignment and optimal load distribution, while face mount hangers attach directly to the side of the joist, offering easier accessibility for installation. The recessed installation of joist hangers demands precise measurements and typically the use of metal connectors and nails designed for tension support. Face mount hangers allow for quicker attachment with fewer tools, making them suitable for retrofit projects where limited access complicates recessed fitting.
Structural Strength and Load Capacity
Joist hangers provide superior structural strength and higher load capacity compared to face mount hangers by fully supporting the joist from below and distributing loads evenly across the framing. While face mount hangers attach to the side of a beam or ledger board, they offer less lateral support and are typically rated for lower load capacities in residential and commercial construction. Engineers often prefer joist hangers for critical applications due to their optimized metal design and secure connection points that enhance overall stability and safety.
Pros and Cons of Joist Hangers
Joist hangers provide strong, reliable support by securely connecting joists to beams, offering enhanced load-bearing capacity and preventing wood twisting or warping. They are typically easier to install and offer superior resistance to lateral forces compared to face mount hangers, which only attach to the joist face and may not provide the same level of stability. However, joist hangers can be more expensive and require precise installation to avoid corrosion and ensure structural integrity.
Pros and Cons of Face Mount Hangers
Face mount hangers offer easier installation by attaching directly to the side of a beam or ledger, making them ideal for retrofit projects or tight spaces where traditional joist hangers may not fit. Their design provides solid lateral support but often lacks the same level of vertical load capacity and stability compared to standard joist hangers, which can limit their use in heavy-duty applications. Face mount hangers also tend to be more visible and may require additional protection against corrosion if exposed to weather elements.
Choosing the Right Hanger for Your Project
Joist hangers provide superior support by cradling the joist on three sides, ensuring stronger load distribution and stability compared to face mount hangers, which attach directly to the side of a beam or ledger board. Face mount hangers are ideal for projects requiring minimal clearance and easier installation but may offer less lateral support. Selecting the right hanger depends on the joist size, load requirements, and structural design to guarantee safety and durability in construction.
joist hanger vs face mount hanger Infographic
