Horizontal pieces such as beams and joists nailed to studs are called what?

Horizontal pieces such as beams and joists nailed to studs are called what?

• A. Bridging
• B. Beams
• C. Girders
• D. Trusses

Answer: (A)

The main idea is identifying the horizontal member that braces and stabilizes a wall. In wood stud walls, horizontal pieces that are nailed between studs serve to keep the studs from twisting and maintain even spacing, helping the wall hold its shape as it dries, screws, and drywall are applied. These braces are called bridging. They differ from beams or girders, which are large load-bearing members, and from trusses, which are preassembled roof or floor frameworks. Blocking is another term you might hear, but it refers to full-depth pieces placed between studs to provide nailing surfaces or support, rather than the slender braces that tie the studs together.

The main idea is identifying the horizontal member that braces and stabilizes a wall. In wood stud walls, horizontal pieces that are nailed between studs serve to keep the studs from twisting and maintain even spacing, helping the wall hold its shape as it dries, screws, and drywall are applied. These braces are called bridging. They differ from beams or girders, which are large load-bearing members, and from trusses, which are preassembled roof or floor frameworks. Blocking is another term you might hear, but it refers to full-depth pieces placed between studs to provide nailing surfaces or support, rather than the slender braces that tie the studs together.