Deck Post Size Code

That means that once you have the footings in place you need to install posts which will support the beams that in turn support the joists that support the decking and eventually you your family and friends.
Deck post size code. The deck post size table will help you answer that question or learn more about loads for posts. So build your deck the right way from the ground and posts up. But if there is any doubt the additional cost to use 6x6s instead is small compared with the total cost of a deck. Sturdy deck railings are an important safety feature for raised decks and are required by code for any deck 30 in.
Each footing must be capable of supporting 1 500 psi load pressure and the code specifies minimum width and thickness depending on the beam and joist span. If a deck s guard posts anchoring does not have a minimum allowable tension load of 1 800 lbs. 2018 irc significant changes to deck provisions 46 r507 4 deck posts deck post size maximum height ft in 4 x 4 6 9 4 x 6 8 6 x 6 14 8 x 8 14 note. The tributary area is the portion of a deck supported by each deck post.
So build your deck the right way from the ground and posts up. The posts should be a minimum 4 4 size and be solidly anchored to the deck joist and rim joist of the structure. Wood decks that are attached to the house to resist lateral forces. A 4x4 post with 1 or 2 beam plies may be up to 8 ft tall footnote c.
Or more above grade. While a 16 foot by 16 foot backyard deck for recreational purposes such as an outdoor kitchen and general lounging may only require deck posts spaced every 7 feet a larger deck may require that the spacing be narrowed down to within 5 feet. See deck framing plan for definition of deck length and width. Deck post size is important.
After you ve laid out the perimeter of the deck it s time to set the footings which support the posts that in turn support the deck. Maximum railing height they should be replaced. Maximum 36 oc solid stringer spacing for 2 thick treads. Minimum post size is 6x6 nominal and maximum post height shall be in accordance with table 4.
Contributing editor and former deck builder glenn mathewson is a building inspector in westminster colo. The size of the deck directly affects the spacing of the support posts. Deck building code tips. In conclusion 4x4s are indeed a sufficient size post to use for many many deck loading conditions.
Use two through bolts and a metal tension tie for the upper bolt connection. Building codes define the minimum height and strength of the railing system as well as the size of gaps in the railing they must be small enough that a small child cannot slip through.