When you're working on a timber frame, pergola, porch, or exposed-beam ceiling, decorative joist hangers offer more than structural support—they define the entire aesthetic. At Old West Iron, we craft our hangers with old-world detail, rugged finishes, and solid integrity. But even the best hardware can fall flat if it’s installed improperly.

Whether you're a contractor, a designer, or a hands-on homeowner, here are five common mistakes to avoid when installing decorative joist hangers—so your build looks as strong as it is.

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1. Choosing Function Over Form (Or Vice Versa)

The mistake: Using structural hangers where decorative ones would elevate the design—or worse, choosing decorative hangers that can’t support the load.

The fix: Know your application. If your joist hanger is purely decorative, you can focus on texture, finish, and design. But if it’s structural—supporting load-bearing beams or joists—choose heavy-duty forged or welded hangers rated for the job.

At Old West Iron, we offer fully functional and decorative-only options. Always check the specs or contact us to help determine the right fit.

2. Using the Wrong Fasteners

The mistake: Installing your beautiful, hand-forged hangers with cheap drywall screws or mismatched bolts.

The fix: Choose fasteners that match the style, finish, and strength of your hardware. We recommend pairing joist hangers with:

• Lag bolts or timber screws for strength

• Hammered or square-head bolts for aesthetic cohesion

• Proper finish-matched hardware (black, bronze, raw iron, etc.)

Not only does this protect your structure, it ensures your hardware looks like it belongs—not like an afterthought.

3. Ignoring the Finish Compatibility

The mistake: Mixing metal finishes or using the wrong finish for an exterior project.

The fix: If your joist hangers are going outdoors, choose powder-coated, rust-proof painted, zinc-coated, or raw + sealed finishes that can handle the elements. Avoid mixing bright zinc fasteners with antique bronze or oil-rubbed finishes—it disrupts the visual flow and cheapens the final look.

Stick to a cohesive color and texture scheme, and consider how it will age over time. If you’re not sure, reach out—we’ll help you match everything from strap brackets to clavos.

4. Misaligning the Hangers

The mistake: Eyeballing instead of measuring. Misaligned joist hangers lead to crooked beams, uneven loads, and visible errors.

The fix: Use a level, square, and tape measure for every install. Mark drill points and double-check alignment before drilling. It only takes a few extra minutes but saves you from costly corrections—or a design that doesn’t sit right.

This is especially critical when you’re installing visible hardware like decorative hangers in a vaulted ceiling, outdoor pergola, or exposed beam structure.

5. Overlooking the Decorative Potential

The mistake: Treating joist hangers as just hardware, rather than an intentional design element.

The fix: Remember—your decorative hangers can define the entire look of a space. Use them to:

• Frame exposed ceiling beams in an entryway

• Anchor outdoor patio structures with style

• Add character to a timber-framed living room

• Enhance garden pergolas or porch rooflines

Don’t just install them—feature them. And make sure the surrounding elements (brackets, straps, bolts) match that same level of craftsmanship.

Build Like You Mean It

When installed with care, decorative joist hangers do more than support—they speak. They tell a story of strength, craftsmanship, and timeless design. And like everything we forge at Old West Iron, they’re made to be seen, not hidden.

If you’re looking to upgrade your structure with hardware that’s as intentional as your design, we’ve got what you need—custom sizing, finish-matched fasteners, and support every step of the way.

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Q&A

Q: What is a decorative joist hanger for?

A: A decorative joist hanger is for those who don't need a joist hanger to support their joists, but still want the rustic look of a joist hanger.

Q: What if my joists are irregular?

A: Contact our team! We can create a decorative joist hanger for nearly any joist.

Q: Do I need to follow the 3/8" fastener rule for a decorative hanger?

A: Nope! This is not a structural piece, so you can use any fastener that your contractor approves of, just so long as it will hold the weight of the hanger.

Maddison Mellem
Writing from the forge at Old West Iron