The Problem with Supporting Purlin and Hip Braces on Ceiling Joists

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Most framers and even some designers assume that a purlin or hip rafter brace can safely rest on a ceiling joist, but according to the International Residential Code (IRC), such braces should be supported on interior bearing walls.

In this video, we explore why ceiling joists are not designed to carry roof loads and why braces must transfer loads directly to bearing walls or other approved supports. You’ll learn how load paths work in conventional roof framing, how roof and ceiling loads differ, and what the IRC actually expects.

❓ Questions that this video answers!
1. Why are roof braces used in conventional wood framing, and when are they actually needed?
2. What does the International Residential Code say about supporting purlins braces?
3. Why should roof braces never be supported on ceiling joists?
4. What is the correct load path for roof braces, and how should loads transfer through the structure?
5. Can an engineer design a code-compliant solution that allows roof braces to bear on ceiling joists through analysis?
6. What happens structurally when a brace delivers roof loads to ceiling joists that were never designed to carry them?
7. How do purlins help reduce rafter spans, and what code section governs their installation?
8. What is the difference between a properly supported purlin brace and one that relies on ceiling joists for support?

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📌 On our website, you’ll find in-depth courses and resources covering:

👉 Roof framing and load paths
👉 Floor and wall assemblies
👉 Bracing, beams, and joists according to the IRC
👉 Real-world applications for code-compliant design

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