How to Frame I-Joists to Hang a Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans do not require specialized framing for hanging, simply a solid support that stays that way when subjected to years of vibration. The most common method for framing an I-joist for a fan is to create another "I" shaped support above the ceiling. This framing houses the junction box in the center, and serves as the central anchor point for the entire assembly. It's best to do the framing while the ceiling is open and free from obstructions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- 2 16-inch 2-by-4 planks Philips-bit wood screws Drill Philips-bit attachment Rubber mallet Metal ceiling fan junction box
Instructions
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Locate the desired spot for the ceiling fan. Insert two 16-inch 2-by-4 planks in between the I-joists, tapping them into place with the rubber mallet. Mount these vertically and tight against one another, so the short sides (the 2-inch sides of the 2-by-4s) are facing down. The junction box will be mounted to these pieces.
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Screw in at least four wood screws per plank from the side of the I-joist into the ends of the wood pieces. This is done with the drill and Philips-bit attachment.
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Screw in the junction box with four additional wood screws, centered on the 2-by-4 planks. Route any 110-volt wiring through the side of the junction box, and cap it until you're ready to hook up your fan.
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Tips & Warnings
If the ceiling is not open, you may choose in install an expandable support brace in between the I-joists. These work by being inserted in a sufficiently large hole in the ceiling. They are cranked open until both ends press tightly against both joists. The junction box is then attached to the brace.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Close-up of ceiling fan image by jeanniner9 from Fotolia.com
