Have you ever seen an engineered wood beam with an “I” shape during a renovation? Then you’ve already been introduced to the TJI joist (Trus Joist® I-Joist). Unlike your grandpa’s 2x10s, these are high-tech, engineered floor joists designed for strength, proper alignment, and efficiency. Anytime you live in a place where temperatures swing dramatically (Hello Colorado!) Your selection of joists matter.
The Anatomy of a TJI Joist
A TJI joist looks a bit like a capital “I”:
- The top and bottom flanges are made from laminated veneer lumber (LVL) or solid sawn lumber.
- The web (the middle part) is usually an engineered wood panel, like OSB.
That design keeps the joist lightweight but incredibly strong.
Why Contractors Love TJI Joists
Here’s why we at Colorado Home Remodeling reach for TJIs on our home remodels:
- No warping or twisting: Unlike traditional lumber, TJIs stay straight as an arrow, even in our dry Colorado air.
- Longer spans: TJIs can cover greater distances without needing a support beam, which means open floor plans without saggy spots.
- Squeak-free floors: Their precision helps reduce the dreaded “haunted house” floor noises.
- Sustainability: They use less old-growth lumber, making them a greener option for Colorado’s eco-conscious homeowners.
| Feature | Traditional Lumber | TJI Joist |
| Strength Consistency | Varies | Engineered for uniformity |
| Span Length | Limited | Longer spans possible |
| Moisture Resistance | Can warp | Highly stable |
| Cost | Lower upfront | Higher upfront |
Where You’ll See TJI Joists in Remodeling
At Colorado Home Remodeling, we often use TJIs in basement finishing, second-story additions, and kitchen remodels where structural loads matter. They allow us to run plumbing, HVAC, and electrical through pre-cut holes in the web, saving time and money.
What to Watch Out For
TJI joists are strong, but they can be problematic around fire. Since they’re engineered, they can fail faster than solid wood if exposed to high heat, so fireproof coatings or coverings are often required, something we always handle to code in every remodel.
Bottom Line
A TJI joist is a modern building hero: lighter, straighter, stronger, and smarter than old-school lumber. When remodeling your home, they make a solid (and quiet) foundation for floors that last.
Ready to remodel?
At Colorado Home Remodeling, we use top-tier materials like TJI joists to ensure your home is safe and solid. Whether you’re finishing a basement in Loveland or opening up a kitchen in Estes Park, we’ll make sure your floors — and your experience — are rock solid.
👉 Call Colorado Home Remodeling today to start your project with confidence.
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