Deck posts are usually
4 feet x 4 inches, 6 feet x 6 inches or 8 feet x 8 inches
as determined to be appropriate for the expected load. After determining the width, the maximum deck post height must also be determined. This also depends on the type of wood used.
What size deck posts should I use?
The posts should be a
minimum 4×4 size
and be solidly anchored to the deck joist and rim joist of the structure. Use two through-bolts and a metal tension tie for the upper bolt connection.
Should I use 4×4 or 6×6 deck posts?
While there may be a handful of circumstances that only require the minimum 4×4 deck post, you will more than likely want to choose a
6×6 post
for the deck. It provides more stability for larger decks, the ability to hold a heavier load, and more room for notching.
Can I use 2×4 for deck posts?
For the deck surface, you can use
2x4s, 2x6s, or 5/4x6s
. The 5/4 decking (pronounced “five-quarter”), available in cedar and pressure-treated fir, is 1 inch thick and 5-1/2 inches wide with rounded edges that make for a splinter-free surface.
How far can a 2×6 span without support?
A 2×6 can support up to 50 pounds per square foot of weight without sagging with a maximum span of
about 12 feet when spanning a distance horizontally
, with the 2×6 standing in a vertical position. This number includes both live and dead weight.
What is the maximum distance between deck posts?
When building your deck frame, the maximum spacing of Deck Posts for should be no further
than 8 feet apart
.
Is 6×6 better than 4×4?
6×6 or
4×6 will also give you less traction in specific conditions
, than a 4×4. In snow/ice and other low traction situations, you have way less traction. And the exact reason I run a SINGLE rear wheel (not dually) rear on my pickup. Winter traction is FAR better with all the weight on 4 wheels instead of 6.
Can 4×4 support a deck?
In the past, many decks were built with 4×4 support posts (also called structural posts). But these can bow seriously, even if a deck is only 3 feet off the ground. For that reason, we strongly recommend that you
use 6x6s instead
, even if your building department does not demand them.
Can I use a 6×6 as a deck beam?
Triple beams for decks (3-2x’s) should be supported with 6×6 posts using
a post beam connector bracket
. … A positive connection using a post beam bracket installed on top of the post and nailed to the side of the beam is the most secure connection.
Can I build ground level deck with 2×4?
Can you use 2×4’s for a ground-level deck? A ground-level deck
can be built from 2×4 if the span is less than 5’8′′ (1.72m)
, using ground contact treated lumber. Under a 2×4 deck, the ground will need to be covered to prevent weed growth through the decking on such a low deck.
Can I use 2×6 for deck joists?
2×6 joists
should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require
, and will not provide for, any guards. … Most decks use 16′′ on center spacing for joists. Most decking is not strong enough to support longer spans than 16′′.
Can you use 2×4 as floor joists?
you don’t use 2×4’s for floor joists
.
Are two 2×6 stronger than a 2×8?
In bending, a joist composed of two 2×6’s (true dimension 1.5 inches x 5.5 inches) are
slightly stronger than a single 2×8
true dimensions 1.5 inches by 7.25 inches.
How far can you span with a 2×6?
A 2×6 joist can span anywhere between
8′ for Cedar and Redwood to 9′ for Pine and Fir at 16′′ OC. 12′′ OC yields longer spans
, while 24′′ OC allows shorter spans. For other types of framing, such as composites, you will find the information on manuals and guidelines that the manufacturers will give you.
How far can a 2×6 header span?
For normal deck loads, a triple 2×6 beam over a span of 10′ feet should be enough. The maximum span is
9′ feet
for a single 2×6 #2btr yellow pine. You should be fine with triple 2×6.
Are 4×4 posts big enough for a deck?
Deck posts
must be a minimum of 4×4
according to the IRC but many jurisdictions require a 6×6 post as a standard. To avoid code violations, many deck builders choose the 6×6 even if the 4×4 is acceptable.
