How to Attach Flooring Joists to a Wall

Measure the width of the wall to which you want to attach the joist. Cut a length of 2-by-6 or 2-by-8 lumber to the measurement. This board forms the ledger board, or the lumber that allows perpendicular connections with other members.

Drill two parallel rows of 1/4-inch-wide pilot holes, spaced 12 inches apart. Place one row 1 1/2 inches lower than the upper edge of the ledger, and the other 1 1/2 inches up from the lower edge. Measure and mark the locations before drilling.

Determine the desired level along the upper edge of the joist and extend the mark on the vertical surface of the wall, at both ends. Snap a chalk line between the marks to form a guideline for the top of the ledger.

Set the ledger at the desired height on the wall, with its top edge flush against the chalk line. Drill through the holes in the ledger board to a depth of 1/8 inch in the wall. Use a hand drill and 3/16-inch rotary bit. Drill a 1 1/4-inch-deep hole through each hole you marked in the wall.

Insert a 2 1/2-inch concrete screw into each hole in the ledger and through the wall. Tighten the screws so the heads are flush against the surrounding ledger surface.

Cut the floor joists to the required length, using a circular saw. Install a galvanized joist hanger at each flooring joist location. Refer to the floor’s framing plan to determine the exact location and angle for the hanger, which is typically at 90 degrees. Ensure the top of the joist falls in line with the top of the ledger board, providing a level and even floor.