What is a ledger in construction?

A ledger is commonly defined as a strip of lumber or a structural component that is used to provide support in various construction applications. In particular, it is often installed horizontally to support beams or joists, helping to distribute weight and ensuring structural stability in decks, balconies, and other framing systems. This function is crucial as it ties different structural elements together, allowing for a more integrated and robust framework.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately describe a ledger's purpose or function. An external wall framing refers to the assembly of materials that creates the outer walls of a building, not a supportive strip. A type of fastener used in beams refers to hardware items that hold beams together, which is distinct from the role of a ledger. Decorative wood trim, on the other hand, adorns spaces and is primarily aesthetic rather than structural, which further differentiates it from the functionality of a ledger.