What is the primary use of joists in construction?

The primary use of joists in construction is to support floors or ceilings. Joists are horizontal structural members that span open spaces and provide support for elements such as floorboards or ceiling materials. They distribute loads evenly across their length, allowing for the structural integrity of the building while creating a flat, stable surface for either walking on top of (in the case of floors) or being attached to (for ceilings). Their placement and spacing are critical for the overall performance and safety of these surfaces, making them essential components in the framing process.

Understanding the role of joists is fundamental for ensuring the proper load-bearing capacity and the performance requirements of various elements in a building.