Making A Long Deck Beam

See the deck post size table to make that determination because it will affect the size of beam you choose.

Making a long deck beam.

It should be built strong set level and protected against rot. The span of a beam is dependent on a few variables. The article concludes with a description of different methods used to make a secure structural connection between posts and. How to build a long deck beam.

Fewer posts on upper level decks are typically more desirable to the occupants and this drives the use of larger framing materials for longer spans. In this episode we show you how to set the metal hardware build and position the beam adjust for level and protect this structural component from the elements. For simplicity s sake we will plan on building a beam that is 5 1 2 inches wide and eight feet long. The species of lumber size of lumber and the load it carries.

Beams are an essential part of a deck s support system so if you re building your own deck you want to make sure these elements are as sturdy and long lasting as possible many older decks were built using massive timbers such as 4x6s or 4x8s for beams which support the underside of the deck horizontally. Be sure the deck beam projects several inches past the edge of the deck for later trimming. Attach beam to the tops of the posts using adjustable post caps. However a beam that sits on top of a 2 by 6 support wall will have an actual thickness of 5 1 2 inches.

It may be only inches from the ground but the carrying beam in a grade level deck does the same job as a structural beam 10 ft. Dimensional lumber is readily available in lengths up to 20 which should accommodate a seamless beam for most applications. Posted on september 30 2020 by sandra. Nail the 2x12s to each other with three nails every 12 in one close to each edge and one in the middle.

This beam serves as the header joist because joists will be attached to its inner face. We describe building the beam out of 2x lumber in four easy to follow steps. The two rim joists will also serve as deck beams to help carry the weight of future remodeling. How to splice a deck beam over a support post it is always best to use a continuous beam without seams for higher strength.

Deck beams and posts beam spans how to brace a deck from swaying how to install deck joists diy plans deck beam flashing building build it once canadian woodworking. How to build install a built up structural beam for decks porches simliar structures. But let s first explain what the numbers in the chart actually mean because it can be a bit confusing. Building and leveling a beam.

This article describes how to build a beam used to support a deck or porch floor or similar structure. Build the two 14 foot long beams that will be perpendicular to the house. For example a beam that sits on top of a 4 by 4 piece of lumber will only need to be 3 1 2 inches wide if it is to remain flush with the post. Set the double 2 12 deck beam on the posts and fasten it to the long 2 6 with 16d galvanized box nails.