Wood floor joists shall have a minimum of how many inches of bearing on masonry?

Wood floor joists are critical structural components that support the flooring system in a building. The minimum requirement for bearing on masonry is set to ensure that the joists are securely anchored and that their load is adequately supported, which is essential for the safety and stability of the structure.

Bearing is the part of the joist that rests on the masonry, allowing it to transfer loads safely to the foundation. A minimum bearing of 3 inches on masonry is stipulated in building codes and standards to provide ample support while also accounting for material properties and potential settling over time. This requirement balances safety and practicality, providing enough bearing surface to prevent possible failure or deformation of the joist under load.

While other dimensions for bearing might be referenced in different contexts (such as different materials or specific design scenarios), the standard minimum of 3 inches on masonry is designed to promote structural integrity while not being overly cumbersome in terms of installation. This is why 3 inches is the correct answer for the minimum bearing requirement for wood floor joists on masonry.