The Ontario Building Code | Bearing of Beams and Joists
9.20.8.3. Bearing of Beams and joists
(1) The bearing area under beams and joists shall be sufficient to carry the supported load.
(2) In no case shall the minimum length of end bearing of beams supported on masonry be less than 90 mm.
(3) The length of end bearing of floor, roof or ceiling joists supported on masonry shall be not less than 40 mm.
In Plain Language
Beams and joists bearing on masonry must meet the requirements set out in this article, ensuring adequate bearing surface and load transfer.
This is a plain-language summary of the 2012/2017 Ontario Building Code text above, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24) or a qualified professional before construction.