Untreated joists should be at least how many inches above the ground?

Untreated joists should be at least 18 inches above the ground to prevent moisture-related issues, such as wood rot and mold growth. This height ensures adequate ventilation beneath the structure, allowing air circulation that helps to dry any moisture that may accumulate. Maintaining this clearance level also helps mitigate the risk of pest infestations, such as termites or carpenter ants, which can thrive in damp environments.

In typical building codes and best practices, preserving this distance is considered an important part of constructing a structurally sound foundation and extending the lifespan of the wooden elements in a home. Hence, keeping untreated joists elevated helps maintain their integrity and reduces the likelihood of significant structural damage over time.