Abstract: Apparatus and methods for spacing, securing, and stabilizing I-joists at their ends, and insulating and structural enhancing I-joist assemblies, are provided around the perimeter, or in the interior, of a floor or ceiling where ends of I-joists are located. Insulated blocking panels may comprise an insulating portion that provides a high-R-value and a structural portion which may comprise vertical panel(s) and optional integral support blocks that provide a profiled end surface for extending to the web of the I-joists. Alternatively, insulated blocking panels with flat, vertical end surfaces may be used with field-installed support blocks, or insulated blocking panels with profiled end surfaces may be used without any support blocks. The support blocks or profiled end surfaces of the insulated blocking panels extend to the web of each I-joist, to fill in the space between the I-joists near the I-joist ends, including a substantial amount of the space immediately adjacent the web of each I-joist.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for spacing, securing, and stabilizing I-joists at their ends, and insulating and structural enhancing I-joist assemblies, are provided around the perimeter, or in the interior, of a floor or ceiling where ends of I-joists are located. Insulated blocking panels may comprise an insulating portion that provides a high-R-value and a structural portion which may comprise vertical panel(s) and optional integral support blocks that provide a profiled end surface for extending to the web of the I-joists. Alternatively, insulated blocking panels with flat, vertical end surfaces may be used with field-installed support blocks, or insulated blocking panels with profiled end surfaces may be used without any support blocks. The support blocks or profiled end surfaces of the insulated blocking panels extend to the web of each I-joist, to fill in the space between the I-joists near the I-joist ends, including a substantial amount of the space immediately adjacent the web of each I-joist.

Abstract: A multi-purpose, shaped, prefabricated, structurally-enhancing support block conforms to the side profiles of conventional I-joists. The support block is preferably installed by fastening it to the I-joist web, rather than to the I-joist flanges, thus preserving the integrity of the I-joist flanges. Further, support blocks may be used in mid-span where additional point-load support is needed, or at joist ends for additional load bearing and/or enhanced rim board, attachment and nailing capabilities. The preferred support block includes a load-jack portion for bearing compressive load and a web and flange support portion reinforcing the thin web of an I-joist to help prevent buckling, rolling, or twisting of the I-joist under peak load conditions.

Abstract: An engineered perimeter rim board with machined or otherwise-formed modular recessed receptacles receives and secures I-joists and other manufactured joists at pre-designated spaces along the length of the rim board. The rim board provides pre-measured joist securement locations and structural enhancements by “locking” the joists into position. Receptacles machined/cut into the rim board may be of various shapes, such as a rectangular recess with a flat planar back wall, a profiled recess with curved top and bottom compartments, and/or an angled recess wherein two sidewalls converge to create a recess without a back wall for receiving joists at positions other than perpendicular to the rim board. The preferred 90-degree receptacle profile provides an I-joist web receiving slot for additional lateral support to help prevent joists from buckling, twisting or rolling over.