Kicker

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Kicker

What is Kicker?

A structural support member or blocking piece used to provide additional support, prevent movement, or transfer loads in construction applications, commonly used in framing, concrete work, and structural installations.

Description

A kicker is a structural support member or blocking piece used to provide additional support, prevent movement, or transfer loads in construction applications, commonly used in framing, concrete work, and structural installations. Kickers serve various functions depending on the application, from preventing lateral movement of structural members to providing temporary support during construction. These versatile construction elements are essential for maintaining structural integrity and ensuring proper load transfer in building systems.

The primary purposes include providing lateral support and preventing movement, transferring loads between structural members, offering temporary support during construction, maintaining proper alignment of structural elements, preventing buckling or deflection, creating bearing surfaces for connections, and ensuring structural stability in various applications.

Types and applications encompass framing kickers, concrete kickers, structural kickers, and specialty support applications in different construction contexts.

Framing kickers include blocking pieces used between joists, studs, or rafters to prevent lateral movement and provide additional support.

FAQs

  • What is a kicker in construction?

    A kicker is a structural support member or blocking piece used to provide additional support, prevent movement, or transfer loads in various construction applications.

  • What are common types of kickers?

    Common types include framing kickers (blocking between joists or studs), concrete kickers (starter walls or curbs), and structural kickers (bracing members).

  • Why are kickers important in framing?

    Kickers prevent lateral movement, provide additional support, distribute loads, and maintain proper alignment of structural members like joists and studs.

  • What materials are used for kickers?

    Materials include wood (dimensional lumber), steel (structural shapes and plates), concrete (cast-in-place or precast), and composite materials.

  • How are kickers installed?

    Installation methods vary by application but typically involve nailing, bolting, welding, or casting in place, depending on the material and structural requirements.

  • Are kickers required by building codes?

    Many building codes require specific types of kickers, such as joist blocking or lateral bracing, to ensure structural stability and safety.

  • Can kickers be temporary?

    Yes, some kickers serve as temporary supports during construction and may be removed once permanent structural elements are in place.

Fun Fact

Fun Fact: The term “kicker” in construction comes from the idea that these elements “kick” or push against other structural members to provide support! In concrete construction, kickers are sometimes called “starter walls” because they start the next level of construction. Some kickers are so small they’re just 2×4 blocks, while others can be massive concrete elements weighing several tons. Interestingly, proper kicker installation can prevent structural failures that might not show up for years after construction!

CSI Code

06 10 00

NAHB Code

610