How far from the top or bottom of the joists must holes bored in them be?

When boring holes in joists, it is crucial to maintain a minimum distance from the top and bottom to preserve the structural integrity of the joist. The standard practice advises that holes should be at least 2 inches from the top or bottom edge. This guideline helps to prevent the weakening of the joists due to excessive removal of material in critical support areas.

If holes are drilled too close to the edges, it could compromise the load-bearing capacity of the joist, leading to potential structural failures. Thus, by adhering to this 2-inch rule, you ensure that the joist retains enough strength around the bored holes, keeping frames structurally sound and within safety standards.