a 3D render of a home with posi-joists installed

What is a Posi-Joist?

Posi-Joists, also called metal web joists or engineered joists, are a structural system combining timber and steel webbing, designed for use in both floor joist and roof applications. Each joist consists of a top and bottom chord, end columns and steel webs positioned in between. Their benefits over traditional floor joists include their reduced weight, increased stiffness, reduced vibration, improved acoustic properties and ability to route services without drilling, notching or modifying in any way. Posi-Joists are designed in specialist software and manufactured using state-of-the-art machinery, ensuring millimetre perfect accuracy every time. Find out how far they'll span using our calculator here.

FAQs

Truck carrying a large trusses on a road with trees in the background

What are the benefits of using Posi-Joists?

Posi-Joists offer a number of benefits over solid joists or even other engineered joists. Posi-Joists provide an almost infinite number of service routing opportunities thanks to their open web design, leading to a reduction in labour costs and more flexibility when installing HVAC or MVHR systems. Thanks to the void they create, they can also be insulated for improved energy efficiency and offer better acoustic and vibration properties than solid joists. To top it off, they'll span further whilst weighing less, making them more manoeuvrable on site.

How do Posi-Joists differ from traditional floor joists?

Unlike a traditional solid floor joist, Posi-Joists feature metal webs connected to timber top and bottom chords, providing service gaps between the webs and reducing the overall weight. Thanks to this clever combination of materials, they will also span further than a traditional solid joist.

How far can Posi-Joists span?

Posi-Joists can span up to around 10 metres, dependant on the amount of supports, the loads subjected to it, etc. For a rough example of clear spans, you can use this span chart. For a more detailed answer, feel free to send us your plans for a custom design (free of charge).

How much do Posi-Joists cost?

Posi-Joists cost from around £25 ex VAT to over £200+ ex VAT per joist depending on their span, depth and overall specification.

How much do Posi-Joists weigh?

Posi-Joists available on our website weigh between approx 11kg and 48kg, although for bespoke designs they can be lighter or heavier.

What's included with a Posi-Joist online order?

When you order Posi-Joists from us, all strongback bracing timber is included, along with a comprehensive design that is sent shortly after purchase. When the joists are delivered, you'll also receive laminated layouts to help with installation.

Are Posi-Joists treated?

The only treatment available for Posi-Joists is a pesticide that protects against the House Longhorn Beetle. It is only necessary if you live within the areas marked on this map.

As standard, online orders are not treated. Please let us know if you require this and we can add it on.

Can you drill or notch Posi-Joists?

No—Posi-Joists, once designed and manufactured, generally can't be modified (with the exception of a trimmable end which is designed to be cut down by up to 130mm). If you need to modify a Posi-Joist we have already supplied, please contact us and we'll try our best to help.

posi-joists being delivered to a large factory

Why Choose Posi-Joists?

  • Long Spanning 📏

    Posi-Joists can span significantly greater distances than traditional solid timber joists while also offering a lighter overall weight. This makes them particularly well-suited for modern construction methods, where open-plan layouts are increasingly popular. The extended span capabilities of these metal web joists reduces or eliminates the need for internal loadbearing walls or intermediate supports, creating more flexible and adaptable floor layouts.

  • Easy Service Routing 🚽

    Thanks to their open web design, Posi-Joists also provide a convenient service void for running plumbing, electrics, and ventilation systems without the need for costly drilling or notching — reducing installation time and minimising potential structural compromise. Whether you're building a new home or undertaking a renovation, Posi-Joists offer a high-performance, cost-effective solution for almost every project.

  • Lightweight 🏋️‍♂️

    Posi-Joists use less material to achieve the same strength as solid timber, making them significantly lighter. This is a major advantage if you're working on a site that can't accommodate a crane or if you want to avoid the associated costs.

  • Easy to install 🔨

    Posi-Joists are manufactured to the size of your building and can be simply dropped into place. If your building isn't perfectly straight (which, let's be honest, most old buildings aren't), Posi-Joists can be supplied with trimmable ends.

  • High quality ✏️

    Posi-Joists are designed in specialist software and produced under factory-controlled conditions, ensuring an unmatched level of quality every time.

  • Improved Acoustics 🔈

    Posi-Joists offer improved acoustic performance, coupled with minimal vibration, compared to solid joists. Their internal void also means they can be insulated to improve this further.

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Why You Should Choose Posi-Joists

Thanks to upcoming regulations, Posi-Joists will soon be invaluable in the building of new homes and businesses. Not only will they save you time and money, but will future-proof your investment. Watch the video below to learn more about why you should choose Posi-Joists.

Posi-Joist Downloads

  • The World of Posi Technology

    This comprehensive guide to all things Posi includes standard details for masonry and timber frame construction, installation guidance, information on acoustic and fire performance and much more.

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  • Posi-Joist Brochure

    This brochure provides a general overview of the product outlining the many advantages of specifying Posi-Joist.

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  • Posi-Joist Acoustic Test Report

    Full acoustic test report for different Posi-Joist floor makeups detailing Posi-Joist’s different acoustic performances in different situations.

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