The distances deck joists must span and their spacing influence the size and grade of the lumber, and vice versa. and 16”o.c. As mentioned above, code will also inform you how high you are allowed to build a deck using 4×4 support posts, which is usually never above 5’ from the footing to the deck surface. Until a few years ago, the IRC didn’t have deck joist span tables. Additionally, many municipalities allow 4×4 deck posts for decks up to 5’ in height. In this guide, we’ll discuss joist sizing, spans, spacing, and factors that affect material selection when framing a deck. As mentioned above, many local building codes allow for the use of 4x4s as deck support posts up to around 5’ – or less. It is better to have two 6×6 support posts than three 4×4 support posts as the cost is negligible and the time savings are huge. Most residential decks are designed for loads of up to 10 people and a live load of 40psf, whereas commercial decks must meet live loads of 100psf or more. A single spruce 2×6 may span 8’-8”o.c, and a double spruce 2×6 joist reaches 25% further, or 10’-10”. 4. Joist Spans for #2-Grade Dimensional Lumber, Redwood, Western Cedar, Red Pine, Ponderosa Pine. The table shows the maximum span permitted for 2×8 and 2×10 joists for 12”o.c. and 24”o.c. It is available in green or brown tones of preservatives, so the color is reasonably consistent. Once you have your joist span, and pier spacing you can size each component of the deck using Tables 1 and 2 below. Most span and spacing tables present values for common dimensional lumber sizes and species. For commercial applications, joist spacing is 12”o.c. Lumber grades further identify the strength of different wood. Medium Strength: Redwood, hemlock, and spruce will span almost as far. Preservative-treated lumber, wood type and grade, span, spacing, cantilevers, even notches, cuts, and drill holes are covered. Many reflect the information found in the IRC or National Building Codes. With almost 54,000 businesses, Anne Arundel County is a major hub of commerce and development. DecksDirect Pro Tip: Using the Drivable Post Anchor by OZ-Post to create a solid deck footing for your project without the hassle of concrete is a brilliant way to keep the building process moving fast. For upper-level decks, 2x10 is recommended as the minimum size to use for strong guard post connections. The maximum spacing for 5/4 wood and most composite decking is 12”o.c. Once the plan is complete, a material list can be generated for building materials. If the joists are 8’ long, then you can only place your deck support posts at a max of 7’4” apart. This is confusing because it is not only telling you the beam span but also telling you maximum distances you can space your deck support posts. The spacing between joists also influences the type of deck material that can be supported, whether 5/4 or 2-inch thick, or cedar, SPF, or composite decking. The cost difference between 2x8s and 2x10s is approximately $7.00 each. Joists that cantilever allow for the use of longer joists than those that terminate at the outside face of the beam. For decks with grip-type or side-mounted hidden fasteners for decking-to-joist connections and with any post height greater than 2.5 feet (measured from the top of the footing to the underside of the supporting beam), install 2x6 bracing to the underside of the deck joists per the requirements below. The most common grade used for joists and deck framing is #2, which has some knots but not enough to weaken it. The most confusing part about understanding how far apart to space your joists is understanding the chart that explains it. 2x6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards. Building a deck involves multiple carefully planned steps. Beams must sit on top of deck support posts, using code-approved fasteners. Southern pine is stronger than most other common deck construction wood types and offers the greatest span. Another way for 16”o.c. Opting for the 3-ply 2×10, resulting in 3 deck support posts, would result in a seriously strong deck, and you would place the third support post right in the center of the beam. Generally, the maximum joist spacing for boards running perpendicular to the joists is 16”o.c. With the input of the three factors, the algorithm provides the maximum span. The spacing helps to determine the span. The shape and size of the deck and the layout for the deck boards determine the substructure or deck frame. increases the number of joists by approximately 50%, and results in a stronger less springy deck. Growing conditions also contribute to the variations making timber from one area more desirable for different projects. There are invisible fasteners for securing the boards to the joists, or two 2-1/2” screws or nails through the face into every joist. There are Tables that also provide sizing for beams based on span, joist wood type, and grade, as well as beam size, support post spacing, and footing requirements. This should be your first option. The Codes identify maximum joist and beam span requirements for different wood types to ensure decks don’t sag or collapse under the weight of people or snow load. Learn how much spacing should go between handrail posts and how to install boards and railing for corner decks. For those in Canada, many consider tables from Ontario and deck support post information found in tables from British Columbia are helpful. The joists are usually not visible, so using expensive premium timbers isn’t necessary as long as the beam structure is properly placed. I'm burying 4x4 posts in Concrete as I did with my large fence. There are so many variables and potential for error when calculating from scratch, that unless you’re a Structural Engineer tasked with the job, it’s better to use another method. spacing is half the span plus two. Most calculators allow for the selection of three or four common wood types or species, standard dimensional lumber from 2×6 to 2×12, and on-center spacing of 12”, 16”, or 24”. Shape of the Deck All are common methods and may affect the overall design and cost of the project. joist spacing. at right angles. The free end of the joist often either rests on the beam or cantilevers over it. and 16”o.c. Smaller beams require more support posts, so any money you gain by purchasing 4x4s instead of 6x6s is more than likely lost because you’ll have to dig more footings to accommodate the weaker 4×4 support posts. There are six main factors to consider when designing and building a deck that determines the span and spacing of deck joist. It depends on the size of the dimensional lumber you use for your deck support beams and joists. What they do tell you is the maximum length of a beam for a particular joist span. Round the span to the nearest foot and add two. The deck surface is commonly one 7” step down from building entrances or at the same level as inside floors. Incising is the process of infusing preservative deeper into the wood through small 1/4” deep cuts on all surfaces. Joist installation doesn’t impact the spacing between joists, but it does affect the span. A quick rule of thumb for determining joist thickness for 12”o.c. I am looking to install privacy screens on my concrete patio. Lesser Strength: Eastern white pine, ponderosa pine, western red cedar, and SPF have shorter span ratings. Ideal deck post spacing is 8 feet or less. Attaching your deck to your house negates the need for a beam – and posts – near your home. For details on creating a post layout, see How to Build a Deck: Design and Layout. Additionally, the beam support structure, type of deck board desired, the pattern for installing the decking, and of course, the Building Code must be factored into the decision too. The type of decking and its layout affect the joist spacing. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with others. Deck joist spacing affects how well supported the deck boards are; if too far apart, the decking will be springy or soft, and can sag. *Values from Table R507.6 of the 2018 IRC. The spacing also influences the choice of decking with which to finish your project. Tables found in your local building code don’t explicitly say how far apart to place your deck support posts. Local building codes address unique conditions for their specific region, including the load-bearing ability of soil, frost and seismic issues, plus snow and wind load concerns. The narrower the spacing between joists, the greater the span can be. Deck joist spacing is the distance between joists, measured from the center of one joist to the center of the next, and is commonly 12, 16, or 24-inches. Stringer spacing for stair treads is commonly 12”o.c., although some products are 16”, 11”, or 8”, so it is best to check the instructions. On the other hand, some rules don’t vary when it comes to deck support posts, such as: Proper deck post spacing follows the deck post spacing chart that is found within your local building code. Use 6×6 deck support posts and an 8” or 10” wide 3-ply beam. Deck Board Spacing. Transferring the idea to reality begins with a plan. Let’s take a 10×10 deck as an example. We’ll assume that one side is attached to your house so that you will need only one support beam because your joists are perpendicular to the house. Deck joists are planks laid on edge in a spaced pattern to which the deck boards are fastened. The type of decking selected may require special fasteners and tools too. A hot tub may be part of the purpose but it affects the shape and size of the deck too. Composite decking is commonly 5/4” x 6” and fastens to joists using invisible clips. An improperly supported deck can result in collapse – there’s a reason deck codes exist and you don’t want to invite thirty people over to a barbecue to find out that your deck can’t support that many people. Most decks have joists that are attached to a ledger board, which is affixed to the house. Decking may be perpendicular or diagonal to joists, full run or staggered, or something unique. Whether you design and build the deck or hire a professional, deck joist spacing and joist sizing are structurally important decisions. It is critical that you understand building codes before you begin – it will save you time during the permit process. Low profile free-standing decks or ledger supported decks fasten to the beams using joist hangers. A deck is an outdoor living area and enhances the look and character of a home. As I’ve already mentioned, tables exist that allow deck builders to determine how far apart they can place deck support posts based on joist, beam, and support post size. Another issue is joist spacing. That leaves one beam to be supported by two or more posts. Assuming your beam size is the same for both decks, then you can place your support posts a maximum of 6’ apart for the 18’ joist deck. If you can’t find your local building code online or just want to play around with calculations to envision what your deck support post layout might look like, then visit an online deck post spacing calculator. Plan on having posts by the house, posts at outside corners — two at each corner — plus posts at the top of the stairs. Five basic components make up any deck: decking, joists (also known as a ledger when attached to a house), beams, posts, and footings. A larger beam can span a greater distance, requiring fewer but larger footings. It doesn’t affect the strength of the wood and is available in 2-by and 5/4 decking formats for decking and frame construction. Check out our table below which is based on the information on Table R507.5 of the 2018 IRC. 2×6 deck boards can span up to 24”o.c. Use of two 6×6 support posts and an 8’ beam is not uniform, because of the length of the joists matters. The wood doesn’t rot or discolor but does need to be cleaned regularly. Span and spacing calculators, whether on-line or hand-held, use algorithms to identify the span based on wood type selection, joist size, and spacing. Common in my area is pressure-treated SPF, cedar, and several brands of composite deck boards. Choose Material and the Size for Your Joists, Example: How Far Apart to Place Deck Joists for 12 x 12 Deck, SPF #2 Grade Joist Configurations for 12–foot deck. However, cedar will gray with age and requires cleaning and sealing or staining regularly. for boards laid at an angle to the joists. Joist Span – Non-Ledger Deck. Regardless of the method used, span and spacing depend on the type and grade of the wood, cantilever, beam size, height off the ground, footing size, and live load values. The most confusing part about understanding how far apart to space your joists is understanding the chart that explains it. For instance, if you want to build a deck to fit your circular, above-ground swimming pool, then you are going to need a number of posts to fit the curve of the pool. Therefore, a longer deck span means that you’ll have to space your deck support posts closer together. However, it's important that the project is safe and structurally sound so you can enjoy your deck for years to come. The load or weight a deck frame must support influences the span and spacing of the joists. A 2×6 yellow pine at 16”o.c. You can order the grade and type you want, but it often is more pricey. The height of your deck actually can determine how many deck posts you will need. The formulas have been used to calculate the spans and spacing on different tables in the Building Codes, and are the values used by different calculator algorithms. When using a two-ply deck beam atop 4x4s, you are limited in terms of how far you can space your deck support posts. The benefit of using 4x4s is that you can put them on a smaller diameter deck footing, which thus requires less concrete and digging. You are limited to two-ply beams – that means two pieces of lumber, such as two 2x8s nailed together for use as a deck support beam. However, be mindful of the size – do you want a house with a deck or a deck with a house? In many building supply stores, the choice of grade and type is limited. Codes address all aspects of residential construction, not just decks. Pressure-treated lumber is protected from moisture and insect damage, as well as mold and mildew. Joists can usually span up to 1.5 times their thickness in feet. Spacing also impacts the distribution of weight, influencing the structural strength, and deck integrity. In some jurisdictions, that can take weeks. You'll need the post layout marked before you begin. If you’re building a new deck, making sure your structure is compliant with local building codes is important when securing your building permit. Determining the proper deck joist sizing and spacing occurs at the planning stage. and 16”o.c., although some manufactured board brands are designed for the 24”o.c. Deck joist spacing for composite decking is the same as that for 5/4” boards. Figure 2. The planks are nominally 6” x 5/4” and usually spaced 1/8” to 3/8” apart. Start by determining the number of posts you need and the post spacing. The height off the ground, wind-load, snow-load, soil-load capacity, and potential seismic forces also factor into the span. Additionally, the inconsistent spacing will create an irregular pattern of fasteners that detracts from the visual look of the deck. Joists commonly are spaced at 12”, 16”, or 24” centers depending on the load the deck frame will carry and the size, type, and orientation of the deck boards. Most decks use dimensional 2-by lumber which is more readily available. Windows, trees, neighbors, and utilities are other factors to keep in mind. Factors that Determine Deck Joist Spacing and Span. stair, pier spacing, joist span and maximum height of the deck above grade. The tributary load is the load carried by any one post in your deck. The 2018 IRC is a good place to start as is your local Code which may adjust values or loads for regional conditions. Knots and defects affect the strength of the timber, making it weaker. The list should also include the number of joist hangers, hurricane brackets, and post-to-beam caps. An accurate deck plan will ensure your permit application is accepted the first time, saving you from having to revise and resubmit. The last columns identify the spans for the beam at 12’ and 10’-6” with the cantilever. Position joists to minimize the number of beams your deck will require. In most cases, it’s best to start with a full board on the outside edge of the deck and … Different types of wood, even within species, have different physical characteristics and strengths. The Building Code stipulates acceptable spacing to prevent injury or death due to improper spacing which can cause structural failure. The key factors that influence how far apart your deck posts when deck building will be are numerous. Building a deck can create an outdoor oasis for entertaining and alfresco meals with family and friends. When planning a deck, consider the direction the deck boards are to go. with a live load rating of 40psf will span 9’-9” while a 2×12 yellow pine at 16”o.c. Start at the center of the rail and work toward the … The joists are fastened to the beams to maintain spacing and prevent movement. The cantilever reduces the span but usually increases the overall length of the joist that may be used. Joists distribute the weight of the live and dead loads of the deck to the supports. On the flipside, a post will touch the deck every time it’s used, providing a steady support system. Like a deck beam, joists that are longer will require deck support posts that are spaced closer together. The spacing reduces to 12”o.c. The shape determines post and beam placement, spacing, and dimensions. Incising weakens the wood slightly, so it often is rated for shorter distances. Installing deck railing is easy if you use an anchored handrail system. Why? The size and spacing of footings tie directly to the maximum spacing between posts of the beam they support. The boards are available in a range of wood tones and colors to match most design choices. Joist Span – Joists Attached at House and to Side of Beam. PRESCRIPTIVE RESIDENTIAL WOOD DECK CONSTRUCTION GUIDE 5 American Wood Council Figure 1B. Attached decks require a ledger for securing it to the building, while free-standing ones need an additional beam and post framework. For conventional guardrail post installation bolted to the side of the framing, larger framing will provide more strength in the rails. While these online calculators are great for visualizing what your deck might look like in terms of where you place your deck support posts, keep in mind that they are only an estimate. The IRC reflects proven construction techniques for wood decks using widely accepted conventional construction materials and practices. 6×6 support posts require a minimum of 10” diameter footings. PRESCRIPTIVE RESIDENTIAL WOOD DECK CONSTRUCTION GUIDE 5 American Wood Council Figure 1B. The maximum spacing of 4x4 deck posts should be 6 feet on center, while the maximum spacing of 6x6 deck posts should be 8 feet on center. Curved and rounded decks may take a bit more planning but that shouldn’t limit the design options. That affects the joist and beam directions, as well as the live load requirements. Additionally, though, the values are also influenced by many factors, including wood species and grade. There is no minimum span, and maximum spans can reach up to 15’. Many composite decking brands and all 5/4” wood boards are limited to 12”o.c. deck guard s05 nts 2 6'-0" max post spacing 36" min [r312.1.2] openings shall not allow the passage of a 4" diameter sphere [r312.1.3] see detail 2/s05 2x6 or 5/4 board rail cap attached to each post with (3) 16d nails or #10x3" wood screws 2x2 balusters attached at top and I will attach 2 x 6 or 2 x 8 deck joists to these posts. Remember to check your local building code before putting any shovels in the ground. I hope you’ve found it helpful and are now confident enough to plan and space your deck support posts! The future is … Remember to follow local code for deck posts. However, you can still orient your joists to ensure the fewest amount of deck posts are required. For example, a three-ply 2×8 support beam will span nearly 2’ longer than a two-ply 2×8 beam for joists of 12’. Elevated decks often require greater post and beam support for shorter deck joist spans. To show how the joist spacing, span, and sizing interact, here are several examples based on a 12×12 deck. The live load is the weight of everything placed on the deck – furnishings, plants, people, etc. or less if the decking is laid perpendicular, or 12”o.c. Use calcium chloride or rock salt to melt the snow and ice from the deck surface. The distance of the beam from the ledger determines the deck joist span. To make it simple, place your posts no further than 8’ apart. The dead and live load the deck will carry helps set the span and spacing of joists and joist dimensions. Some jurisdictions do not allow bracing on a middle post if you have one. Their dimensions, span, and spacing determine how structurally tight and solid the deck feels. The live load also affects the footing size. Determine the basic design of the deck, such as posts, beams and other spacing, and prepare a materials list. It is important to note that not all values in some tables are the same as what is in the IRC, so it is important to check the local Code for accurate current values for your area. If you are unable to attach or don’t want to attach, your deck joists to your house with a ledger board, then your design becomes more flexible. It is available pressure-treated at a premium price. There are several construction methods for installing deck joists. The last factor is also the size of the footing. The best source of information is always your local building code. A span is the unsupported distance between two posts. or 16”o.c. Cut the Posts. Similarly, the length of your deck joists, size of your deck beams, size of footings, and the overall height of your deck will all play a factor in how far apart your deck posts are – let’s take a closer look. the span maximum is 9’-1”. At a minimum, with no ledger board, you’ll need two beams and four deck support posts. The greater the span and spacing, the more spongy a deck may feel. Total height of low level ground level deck. Because the maximum span a two-ply 2×12 can run is just over 9’. Finally, it will list various joist lengths, such as 6’, 8’, 10’, and so on. It is advisable to retain the services of a Structural Engineer for correct calculations, especially for decks of large dimensions, loads, and heights. But the 2015 IRC included a new one (Table R507.5) that will make it easy for deck builders to spec a joist size for a given span and joist spacing. They support the deck surface and provide a level framework to which decking is attached. Maximum joist span of a 2X8 is 10’ – 6” at 16” o.c. The distance between deck support posts depends on the type of wood species used and the size of the joist and beam. If your deck is more than 2’ high, your corner support posts will need to be braced parallel and perpendicular to the support beam and deck joists, respectively. Most 2” thick wood planks are fine traversing joist spacing of 12”o.c., 16”o.c. The spacing between joists is 12”o.c. Pressure-treated or wood preservative doesn’t affect the strength of wood, incising however does. So to span 10-feet use a 2×8. However, if you opt to space your joists only 12” on center you can have a much longer deck span – up to 2’ longer. spacing or greater. It varies because decks come in so many different sizes and shapes. The greater number of rings per inch results in more compact end grain and better bending strength. We’ll also explore how they influence the strength and safety of a deck. Placing the beam so the outside face is 12’ from the structure or 10’-6” doesn’t affect the cost, but does impact the structural strength. Tables and span calculators frequently provide joist dimensions, span, and spacing values based on a dead load of 10 pounds per square foot (PSF or psf) and a live-load of 40psf. on an angle. The width, thickness, wood type, grade, and spacing influence the span a joist can bridge. Composite deck boards and 5/4” boards laid on an angle to the joists require joists at 12”o.c. When I built my deck, one of the biggest questions I had was how far apart should I put my deck posts? The span of deck joists depends on the selection of dimensional lumber available in your area. The local Building Code is adapted from the State or National Building Code, which in turn is based on the International Residential Building Code (IRC). Decks commonly follow the perimeter of a wall or structure, or the contours of the landscaping, or both. The longer the joists, the smaller the gap between deck support posts becomes – an inverse relationship. STAIRS. For example, the table will be called something like “deck beam spans”. Deck boards that diagonally cross joists at angles such as 30°, 45°, or 60° span a greater distance, and so the deck joist spacing must be adjusted. He is passionately interested in home improvement, renovation and woodworking. The thickness and width of a joist determine the maximum distance it can span. How the decking runs determines the joist pattern, which in turn identifies the number, size, and placement of beams and support posts, and the ledger board. Check out the calculator below. One of these tables will first indicate the wood type – typically SYP (Southern Yellow Pine) or SPF (Spruce Pine Fir). Deck joists, similar to those in any structure, determine the load a floor or deck framing can carry. So using the above examples, a 2-ply 2×8 of SYP can have deck support posts spaced at 8’6” for joists that are only 6’ long. T explicitly say how far apart you place your posts nearly 2 ’ further apart – code varies depending! Wood and is available in a range of wood, incising however does perpendicular to the nearest and! 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