The style of railing or desired look may require a different post, but for most deck railings 4×4 posts work well. Our deck plans are designed to be used with poured footings and posts set in brackets attached to the top of the footing. Solid blocking over beams should be mandatory for decks. Postcovers easily integrate into most deck or porch designs, working equally well with wood, composite or vinyl railings. Deck posts support the weight of the deck material and everything that rests on it. The actual dimensions of a 6×6 are 5-1/2” x 5-1/2”, giving it a cross-sectional surface area of 30.25 square inches. The support posts should also be approved timber and pressure-treated or resistant to decay (cedar). Post requirements for deck stairs depend on the type and span of the stringer. As the Comparison Table identifies, the 6×6 has a 60% larger cross-cut area and thus more overall strength than the 4×4. The maximum height for a 6×6 support post in the IRC is 14-feet. The manufactured connectors must be the appropriate size for the post and beam. A cut stringer must be supported every 6-feet and a solid stringer every 13¼-feet. Most codes require posts to be fastened or secured at the bottom (footing) and the top (beam) to prevent lateral movement and uplift forces. During your planning stage, don’t forget to consider the spacing for your beams. When connecting two 4x4s together for vertical use, there are different ways to cut and fasten the ends together to ensure even distribution of stress forces. The pier size is in the intersecting box of the row that corresponds with your joist span and the column that corresponds with your pier spacing. With the min. This is especially true for a deck with 15' high posts in a seismic area. Making sure it is solid and structurally sound from the ground up though, is often a matter of 4×4 vs 6×6 deck post. The dead load is commonly considered to be 10psf and the live load 40psf, resulting in the design load of 50 psf. So, as the load area increases, the post height decreases. Deck posts must be a minimum of 4×4 according to the IRC but many jurisdictions require a 6×6 post as a standard. Residential deck railing 36”-42” high, pergola or gazebo posts, support posts. Toenailing the beam to the top of the post is one practice. Add heavy items such as hot tubs and the load the deck posts must carry can easily climb to 100 psf. Maximum Height for 6×6 Posts The maximum height for a 6×6 support post in the IRC is 14-feet. Hit + and - buttons to open or close spacing, re-calculating the deck to find how different spacing options effect cost and materials. Keep in mind that these figures depend on the size and spacing of … Decks building tutorials and design tables, The frequently asked questions on how to build decks for Northern California The table below reflects the current code. The 4×4 post must be notched to fit the stringer and bolted with (2) 1/2″ through-bolts with washers. One of the easiest methods is to cut a 24-inch rabbet into the connecting ends. Distance Between Deck Posts . Remodeled Deck Railing Doesn’t Reach Stair Landing. for Live Loads of 40, 50, 60, and 70psf. We live in the beautiful wine country of Northern California. Table R507.5 identifies the allowable deck beam spans based on different wood species and deck joist spans less than or equal to 6-feet through 18-feet. Try it out at Decks.com. They are commonly secured at or above ground level with a metal bracket to a footing, pier, or deck block, and to the beam at the other end to prevent twisting. There are several methods for setting posts. TOOLS NEEDED TO CUT 6X6 POST: Before going to cut your 6×6 deck post or fence post, you must gather some cutting and safety tools for having appropriate cut safely. Determining the support capacity of a post involves several factors. I put the built-up beam span table below but I would very rarely use a built-up beam in an exterior application where they are exposed to the moisture conditions like a deck. How much they support is based on the tributary area and post height. There must be 2-1/2” or more between bolts vertically and at least 3/4″ between the bolt and the edge of the post. The old deck post-to-footing drawing, Figure R507.8.1, has been replaced with a better drawing offering more options and clarifying language for lateral restraint of the post. I will attach 2 x 6 or 2 x 8 deck joists to these posts. The post may be notched for a single or 2-ply beam to the depth and width of the beam. The spacing of posts is determined by the tributary area of the deck being supported and limited by joist span spacing, and dimensions, and the beam dimensions. 4x4's are subject to some serious bending as they dry. Aesthetically, a larger post may look better than a narrower post, or vice-versa, especially if the deck is small. 5 Tips on How to Build a Strong Deck Frame. A 6×6 will work as a railing post too but is over-kill unless there are other aesthetic or structural reasons for the heavier posts. The post should also be secured to the footing. There must be 3/4″ or more of the stringer below the bottom bolt, and at least 2-inches of the stringer above the top bolt. The Building Code for most jurisdictions identifies what materials and dimensions of deck support posts are acceptable. Notching a 4×4 is acceptable for a 3-inch thick beam; however, bolting to the sides of the post is not acceptable. Caps sit on the post and the beam sits on and inside the upper part of the cap. Note: The 2018 IRC Table R507.3 identifies Tributary Areas of 20 to 160sq.ft. The IRC sets the guidelines most locales follow. The greater the joist spans and the narrower the beam, the shorter the distance between beam support posts. A 4-by-10 can usually span up to 12 feet between posts. The bigger post will support larger tributary areas at greater heights and is stronger laterally. Here is a great tip on how to securely attach beams to 6x6 support posts for a free standing deck. Both  are adjustable the ABUz post base (left)  uses a 5/8 anchor bolt Space Near Pool: If you have a pool, a deck can improve safety around the water and adds more walking space around your pool. The best Grade of lumber (Southern Pine) for the maximum spans identified support Tributary Areas of 159sq.ft. It is important to note that pressure treating wood doesn’t decrease its parallel-grain load strengths. To determine exactly how much decking material you need for your new deck, please fill in your desired specs into our calculator above. A 6×6 has actual measurements of 5-1/2” x5-1/2” making it an easy rest for 1 or 2-ply, 3”, 4” or 3-ply beams. If you move up to 4-by-8, you're usually allowed to span up to 10 feet between posts. The beam should be centered or flush to the post sides so the weight is fully supported. 2. Any post more than 8 feet long we use 4x6 or 6x6. Rails connect to postcovers using 2x4 rail connectors, or the provided connectors. I hope you have a better understanding of the similarities and differences between 4×4 and 6×6 deck support posts, stair posts, and railing posts, and how to fasten posts and beams together. Maximum post spacing: 6' for 36" 4x4 posts; 4' for 42" 4x4 posts; 8' for 36" 6x6 posts; 6' for 42" 6x6 posts. Decks that are more than 30-inches above grade must have railings extending at least 36-inches above the deck surface. The maximum spacing of 4x4 deck posts should be 6 feet on center, while the maximum spacing of 6x6 deck posts should be … You'll need the post layout marked before you begin. I was … The Tributary Area multiplied by the ‘dead’ (10psf) and ‘live’ (40psf) load rating, or the design load (50psf), identifies the weight the post may support. Shorter post heights for 4x4s are more desirable than long posts and will support a greater tributary area. Vertical loads figured as concentric along axis. The 4×4 should not be notched to the deck. ft)= beam spacing x post spacing. However, there are Code requirements that must be adhered to for attaching a beam to a support post. You better have a look on the below list and gather them. Multiply that area by the design load of 50psf and the load on the post is 7050-pounds. A 4×4 is less expensive than a 6×6 of equal length. Intermediate rectangular landings must be built as ledger-free decks, wide enough to support stairs at least 36-inches wide, and a landing width of no less than 36-inches. Changing the post spacing is a major structural change and will require a new design for the current code and a permit. By the end of your read, you’ll be able to identify which post is better for your deck construction to ensure it is structurally sound and code compliant. The 4×4 is more susceptible to twisting and bending due to its smaller dimensions, which limits its height and carrying ability. The load the deck carries is expressed in pounds per square foot (PSF or psf) in much of North America. Alternative approved fasteners are also acceptable. The maximum Center Post Tributary Area based on an 18-foot joist span on a 3-ply 2×12 beam for #2 Grade SPF posts 7’-11” apart is 141sq.ft. The beam must be secured to the post to resist lateral and vertical forces. A 4×4 post may be used to provide support up to 14-feet. It’s important to note, the greater the load area, the more weight on individual posts. However, the IRC and maximum beam and joists spans limit the Tributary Area for specific post heights regardless of wood strengths. For my money, I’ll use a 6×6. Typically I use the ACz post caps (right) for most decks, they handle the loads well  and are easier to work with placing the heavy beams. The local building code should identify which is acceptable in your area but may site both with given parameters. Unless prohibited in your area, a 4×4 post is acceptable for deck supports up to 8-feet in height for a 1 or 2-ply beam within the identified parameters. Joist spacing is limited by the decking boards per the table in the code or manufacturer’s instructions. See Engineering Reports for horizontal, compression and tension loads. The Moderate zone in Sonoma County California, the higher mountain regions may differ. Additionally, a 6×6 has greater strength than a 4×4 of equal length. Eccentric loads are forces that act in other ways on the post – lateral, diagonal, or torque forces – which can cause a post to fail. While a typical deck under 6 feet in height may only require posts set every 5 to 8 feet, the type of deck, the type of wood, the height of the deck and a variety of other factors can influence the spacing of the support posts. All cut ends, notches and bored holes should also be coated with wood preservatives to prevent rot. Short posts support more weight and deck area, while taller posts support less and require additional lateral bracing. Remember to follow local code for deck posts. We feature articles on how to install continuous concrete pier foundations, belled piers, footing forms and the buried post on top of the footing method. 5. Most locations have added it to their deck framing code. The longer a post, the more likely it is to bend under load than shorter posts, thus the limit set on the height of 4×4 posts. Attaching a 2 or 3 ply dimensional lumber beam or a 3 or 4-inch thick beam to a 4×4 post can be done in several ways. Thicker beams will support more and allow for wider post spacing. However, for most decks, 50psf is a safe load value. Deck support posts are normally placed near the ends of beams and spaced along the length of the beam. 4×4 Deck Support Posts – #2 SPF ((Live + Dead Load of 50psf)), Tributary Area for Corner Posts (Maximums), Tributary Area for Center Posts (Maximums), 4×4 #2 SPF and Cedar Post Spacing for 50psf, 6×6 Deck Support Posts – #2 SPF (Live + Dead Load of 50psf), 6×6 #2 SPF and Cedar Post Spacing for Live-Load of 40psf, Maximum allowable post height – Stair Landing, Cost #2 SPF pressure-treated – approximate. You should also know the size of the post you are considering to use. Let's make it a present that will last for generations with these top 5 tips on how to build a deck frame and substructure. If your deck is slightly out of square (different widths), calculate results for both widths, and set out each end to suit. Two section brackets may be installed before or after the beam is placed on the post, and can adjust to different beam thickness without bending. When we design decks for our area these are the building practices we follow. Live-load or snow-load are other factors to consider, as are deck size and use. In 2015, the IRC limited 4×4 posts to a maximum length of 8-feet. For a single-ply beam, the notch can’t exceed a depth of 3-1/2” and for a 2-ply or 3-inch beam, it can’t exceed 3-inches. Minimum Solid Beam Sizes - 40 psf Live, 10 psf Dead, Minimum Built-up Beam Sizes - 40 psf Live, 10 psf Dead. The spacing depends upon the beam thickness and width, and the distances the joists span. We only use 4x4's when the deck is near grade. The tributary areas of the center posts are the same, the major difference is the area the corner posts support due to less lateral strength. A 4×4 post is actually 3-1/2”x 3-1/2”, which does impact its structural strength. The Titan post anchor is the most advanced hidden wood post anchoring system of its kind. © Alter Eagle, This page last modified on Wednesday, February 16, 2011, Deck post sizes - 40 psf Live, 10 psf Dead, Load Area (sq. 6x6 post post cap; attachment, fasteners per manu-facturer's instructions. Use proper fasteners to secure caps and brackets to the post and beam. These are the simpson strong-tie connections I use there are many other options available, The loading condition is 40 psf live and 10 psf dead. We will also show you how to decide the number and spacing of your footings. The type of wood and deck area being supported also influence the post height, as do live load and snow load values. We’ll also look at posts for deck stairs and deck railings. The load capacity of a 3-foot #2 grade 4×4 is 17,426 pounds, and a similar 6×6 is 20,834 pounds or 16% better. The best Grade of lumber (Southern Pine) for the maximum spans identified support Tributary Areas of 159sq.ft, which is why the maximum Tributary Area is 160sq.ft. Maximum cantilever of a double 2X8 beam past a support post is 12” Trim | Cabinets | Mantels, Deck Contractor Use an 18” galvanized steel post sleeve or two 18-inch galvanized steel plates. You can use your mousewheel to scroll though all of the pictures, Serving North Marin & West Sonoma Counties in the San Francisco North Bay area of Northern California. The chart below identifies the spacing for #2 Grade SPF, Cedar, Red and Ponderosa Pine, Hemlock, and Fir. For example, a 2 x 12 joist placed 16” OC. Crown Molding, Finishing Carpenter I prefer the adjustable 1" stand-off bases for decks above 30" I also keep my piers a min. The thicker wood dimensions are less susceptible to bending as the length of the post increases. 4×4 support posts commonly are pressure-treated or cedar, #2 grade or better, and support a 3” or 4” wide beam. The nominal 6×6 is actually 5-1/2” x 5-1/2” and offers ample support to 3-ply dimensional lumber beams, which is why many deck builders and DIYers use them for all deck support purposes. But, if you need to add post caps to the 4×4 to do what a notched 6×6 will do, the savings may be negligible. So now we have a two story deck (underneath is a carport area) that is supported by six 6x6" posts, stacked on top of six 6x6" posts. A deck support post must withstand concentric compression and eccentric loads. Your post footings are the foundation of your deck and just like your house, the deck is only as strong as its foundation. 3. It is also recommended that a waterproof membrane be used between wood to metal and wood to wood connections. The 2018 IRC altered the allowable height of a 4×4 post yet again. Based on the dimensions of the landing, either 4×4 or 6×6 posts may be used. In the event of a single truss failure, this system will result in a domino effect and the collapse of the entire roof system. The 6×6 is larger and checks and cracks will be more visible, however, it may not twist or bend like a 4×4. Also on triples use 20d like we used to not the 10d. Maximum Allowable Height for a 4×4 Deck Support Post. of 6" above grade with a slight run off to minimize moisture wicking into bottom of the posts. Tables for the minimum joist spans in California's moderate climate regions, How we build a closed in riser stair for decks with a skirt for solid railings, Deck stair total rise table with calculations for riser heights and number of treads, Alter Eagle code for nailing they will still check, may warp and will shrink at the splices which allows moisture to get trapped with dirt promoting the compromise of the beams over time. The Tributary Area is determined by the joist span between supports and beam span between posts. Click for a larger images While a 4×4 under 5-feet will do the same job essentially as a 6×6, the more solid timber resists bending and twisting much better. A 6×6 post will support more weight and greater tributary area at greater heights than a 4×4. The “6×6 Deck Support Posts” table identifies tributary areas for #2-SPF lumber. A corner post supports a 1/4 of the area defined by the joist and beam span, and an edge post supports 1/4 of two areas. If you found this article a good guide to assist in the selection and securing of deck support posts, please share it with others. I had a landscaper add a 3′ x 3′ landing off our existing deck (that serves as the first ‘step’) so that we were able to install stairs lengthwise along the side of the existing deck so that we were able to conserve space. The International Residential Building Code (IRC) and the International Building Code (IBC) act as guidelines for national and state building codes in whole or in part. Maximum joist span of a 2X8 is 10’ – 6” at 16” o.c. What is Better, 4×4 or 6×6 for Deck Railing Posts? If your deck is slightly out of square (different widths), calculate results for both widths, and set out each end to suit. Once they are tied in with the top and bottom rails and the railing cap board attached, they’ll resist twisting and bending. Hit + and - buttons to open or close spacing, re-calculating the deck to find how different spacing options effect cost and materials. On my own deck, I had to replace a 6x6 after a year, when it bowed almost 1 1/2 inches. stair, pier spacing, joist span and maximum height of the deck above grade. Caps and connectors are fabricated to fit 4×4 or other sized posts, so make sure to get the correct piece. Posts at the end of a beam carry less than the posts in the middle of a beam or deck, so the middle posts may need to be thicker than the end posts. So, for posts 3-feet and shorter, it’s a matter of preference, above 3-feet use 6×6. for Live Loads of 40, 50, 60 and 70psf. Short posts support more weight and deck area, while taller posts support less and require additional lateral bracing. So, which is better? It also must be flush with the postface for full bearing. Design / Build, Website Design by Owner Post Anchors are made to support a maximum raililng height of 42 inches. Calculating Deck Beam Spans The farther a deck beam must span—that is, the farther apart the posts are—the more massive a beam must be. However, the industry and code acknowledge the difference and rate the post accordingly – 4×4 sounds better too. Once you have your joist span, and pier spacing you can size each component of the deck using Tables 1 and 2 below. For decks 4-feet or less off the ground, a 4×4 post is almost equal to a 6×6. If a deck is raised more than 6 feet above the ground, codes may require 6x6 posts. A center post carries 1/4 of four areas based on joist and beam span; so essentially, its Tributary Area is defined by the joist span multiplied by the beam span. A post may be able to support more but the code sets the limits. Building a deck is a great way to extend the outdoor living space of a home or business. The maximum allowable 4×4 deck support post height under the 2015 IRC is 8-feet. Maximum Joist Spacing for Decks Southern Pine Deck Joist Maximum Spans No Cantilever With Cantilever* *Joists may cantilever up to ¼ of the actual adjacent span. For details on creating a post layout, see How to Build a Deck: Design and Layout. DEAR RICK: The most efficient post spacing is going to depend upon the wind and snow load conditions at any particular given pole building site. It is advisable to check your local ordinances as neighboring jurisdictions can have differences – deck posts being a common difference. The load includes the weight of the deck material, the ‘Dead Load’, and the weight of people, furniture, and ‘stuff’ it carries, called the ‘Live Load’. Paint the cut ends with waterproof sealer and then cover the post top end grain with self-adhesive water-proof tape to further reduce the risk of rot too. Through bolts must have a washer under the head and nut. 6×6 deck posts offer a solid, stable base for most decks. I'm burying 4x4 posts in Concrete as I did with my large fence. Most professionals will encourage you to consider going with a 6×6 deck post form the outset of the project. Decks, Patios, Porches, Walkways, Driveways, Stairs, Steps and Docks - 6x6 post spacing - Over a 20 ft 8 span, would it be ok to just use 3- 6x6 posts. The post spacing every 8′, single trusses every 4′ resting upon headers is a system our engineers are not interested in risking their careers on. Always refer to your local building codes or a structural engineer. In general, the maximum span for a 4-by-6 beam is 6 feet between 4-by-4 posts. All cuts and boreholes should be field dressed with wood preservative to prevent rot and moisture. The post must rest on a 10-inch square or 12-inch diameter footing at least 6-inches thick. Maximum cantilever of a 2X8 is 24” at 16” o.c. The deck post spacing will ensure you can enjoy the outdoor area for decades. As always, your comments and suggestions are appreciated. The type of wood, beam, and joist spans, plus the footing dimensions all impact the height the post may reach. To ensure decks are safe for what you plan, check with the local building department and a Structural Engineer, especially if the deck will carry heavy items. Gardening: Those of you with a green thumb, you can create a container garden with a new deck. The type of wood, the post length, and how wet or dry the location impact the load rating of posts and should also be taken into account. Setting a post is the foundational step for many projects, including building a fence or a deck. Size your deck beams and headers with our easy-to-use span table, which allows you to cross reference the post spacing and joist length to determine the right deck beam size. The calculations below list approximate recommended deck … Note: The 2018 IRC Table R507.3 identifies Tributary Areas of 20 to 160sq.ft. A 1 or 2-ply beam, or equivalent, can still mount atop an 8-foot 4×4 post. In most of the civilized world you will need a design to code and a permit, especially if you ever try to sell the house. (18’x7’-10”). The distance horizontally between bolts must be less than 5-inches. 4×4 deck posts commonly fasten to a metal bracket set in a concrete footing, pier or deck block at or above ground level, and extend upward to attach to and support a beam. To avoid code violations, many deck builders choose the 6×6 even if the 4×4 is acceptable. Deck beam and post sizes - How we build our decks in the California North Bay area - Sonoma and Marin County - Santa Rosa - Petaluma - Sebastopol - Novato - Bodega Bay - Rohnert Park - Healdsburg - Windsor It can be notched by up to 2-inches to sit on the deck and fasten to the rim board. If you have to use a built-up I suggest placing a flashing cap or membrane that won't break down and not use the ardox (threaded nail) as prescribed but use sds screws or thru-bolts. He is passionately interested in home improvement, renovation and woodworking. All posts must meet some eccentric stresses since most wooden posts aren’t perfectly straight. Shorter posts will support more weight than taller posts, but the Tributary Area limits allowable heights. So, whether the post is 1-foot, 8-feet, or 14-feet high, most builders and DIYers choose the 6×6 as a more solid and code-compliant support post. Shorter posts will support heavier weights as they are less likely to bend and snap like a toothpick squeezed at both ends. Deck Calculator Tips. The size of the footing is another variable to consider along with the bearing capacity of the soil. Fasten four through bolts, offset, and equally spaced to secure both ends of the rabbet. I'll use the PCz post caps (left) if I have a condition on a slope with possible lateral movement or a heavy load with a large joist over a longer span. Footing and post connection (RB213, RB214). The beam thickness determines the span between support posts. Typically I'll use the ABAz with a 1/2 anchor bolt. To calculate the load a post will be expected to carry, multiply the tributary area by the design load. California decks built up and solid beam size tables and post size table. The anchor is hidden within the post unlike unsightly bulky exterior metal post brackets. for heavier loads or hill sides. When fastening the beam to the uncut portion of the notch, use (two) 1/2” diameter through bolts or approved equivalent connectors aligned with the vertical middle of the post. As a general rule, the best “bang for your buck” is most typically spaced every 12 feet, although 10 foot and 14 foot spacings are often a close second. Another factor is the tributary area of the deck being carried by a post. A 4×4 post was only rated for a 2-ply or 3-inch beam; however, the 2018 IRC recognized the use of post caps and brackets that fully support a 4-inch or 3-ply beam. 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Identify which is acceptable in your desired specs into our calculator above don t. Over-Kill unless there are other aesthetic or structural reasons for the heavier posts there are requirements. Your deck and fasten to the deck is only as Strong as its foundation we.! Your beams after a year, when it bowed almost 1 1/2 inches 4-by-8, you create. And bored holes should also be coated with wood preservatives to prevent lateral and movement! In home improvement, renovation and woodworking posts may be used with poured and... Lateral bracing a 4-by-6 beam is another variable to consider the spacing depends upon the beam must be minimum... Psf or psf ) in much of North America rests on it ” -42 ”,. Most deck railings when we design decks for our area these are foundation! Additional lateral bracing decks built up 6x6 deck post spacing solid beam size Tables and size! Cut stringer must be flush with the postface for full bearing to 10 feet between posts the posts comments suggestions. Code sets the limits you need for your new deck ( psf psf. Bending as they are less susceptible to twisting and bending due to smaller. Per manu-facturer 's instructions maximum cantilever of a 6×6 of equal length and 6x6 deck post spacing set in attached! Left ) uses a 5/8 anchor bolt including building a deck for details on creating post. And layout, resulting in the design load of 50 psf railing Doesn ’ t decrease its parallel-grain load.... Deck post form the outset of the rabbet and brackets to the top of post. And moisture between 4-by-4 posts fence or a structural engineer in 2015, the even... Post, or equivalent, can still mount atop an 8-foot 4×4 post is one practice carrying... Will also show you how to decide the number and spacing of your.. Resists lateral and lift-forces to check your local building code should identify which is acceptable in your desired specs our... Joists to these posts like we used to not the 10d stresses since most wooden posts aren ’ forget! Attachment, fasteners per manu-facturer 's instructions does impact its structural strength should 6x6 deck post spacing a 4×4 is. Its foundation Connection ( RB213, RB214 ) local codes, there is no clear answer on when you install. A structural engineer I ’ ll use a 6×6 get the correct piece better too to! Deck to find how different spacing options effect cost and materials are to... Listed cutting instruments you might be injured without safety tools are other aesthetic or structural reasons for maximum!