It provides a warm wood glow that many appreciate. Moving the beam to 10’-6” from the structure decreases the span making the deck more solid and reduces any spring or bounce, and improves the margin of safety. They support the deck surface and provide a level framework to which decking is attached. The tributary load is the load carried by any one post in your deck. Use of two 6×6 support posts and an 8’ beam is not uniform, because of the length of the joists matters. Total height of low level ground level deck. PRESCRIPTIVE RESIDENTIAL WOOD DECK CONSTRUCTION GUIDE 5 American Wood Council Figure 1B. 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. That leaves one beam to be supported by two or more posts. Luckily, there are tons of handy charts to help get you started. It is better to go shorter than to try and maximize span bridging for a more solid and secure platform. Deck joist spacing for composite decking is the same as that for 5/4” boards. Factors that Determine Deck Joist Spacing and Span. Cut the Posts. Measure the distance between posts at two corners and divide by the distance allowed between posts. The table shows the maximum span permitted for 2×8 and 2×10 joists for 12”o.c. Living in a region with heavy snow loads or winds can also increase the live load values, and so should be included in the design considerations when building a deck. Another rule of thumb is to layout fixtures in odd numbers (3, 5, 7, etc. A span is the unsupported distance between two posts. For upper-level decks, 2x10 is recommended as the minimum size to use for strong guard post connections. They bow too easily to span much distance and won’t support heavy loads. Determining the proper deck joist sizing and spacing occurs at the planning stage. On the other hand, as your joist length increases, so does the diameter of your footings that your deck support posts sit on. 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. 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 spacing of your posts will also change if you don’t attach your deck to your house, or if you opt for 4×4 instead of 6×6 lumber. It also determines if joists will be cantilevered which also affects the span and spacing. The deck surface is commonly one 7” step down from building entrances or at the same level as inside floors. Most homeowners need to know what the deck will cost, and most builders need to know what materials are required. Once the deck surface is dry, apply a deck “brightener"* to the deck as directed by the manufacturer. You'll need the post layout marked before you begin. It depends on the size of the dimensional lumber you use for your deck support beams and joists. ), and the height off the ground. Minimum 36 ”at all points above the permitted handrail height. The dead load is the weight of all the building materials and is commonly calculated at 10psf. The most confusing part about understanding how far apart to space your joists is understanding the chart that explains it. The live load is the weight of everything placed on the deck – furnishings, plants, people, etc. High Strength: Douglas fir and southern yellow pine will span greater distances. Most decks use dimensional 2-by lumber which is more readily available. Figure 2. Additionally, though, the values are also influenced by many factors, including wood species and grade. Doubling a joist will increase its width allowing it to span by about 25% while doubling the thickness will add 75% to 100% more to the span. Lesser Strength: Eastern white pine, ponderosa pine, western red cedar, and SPF have shorter span ratings. As mentioned above, many local building codes allow for the use of 4x4s as deck support posts up to around 5’ – or less. We recommend this joist span calculator, which has the following functions: Deck joist span tables commonly identify the maximum span for different wood types and joist spacing. Therefore, a longer deck span means that you’ll have to space your deck support posts closer together. Another way for 16”o.c. For instance, let’s say you have two decks – one with 12’ joists and the other with 18’ joists. The wood doesn’t rot or discolor but does need to be cleaned regularly. The cantilever reduces the span but usually increases the overall length of the joist that may be used. Many reflect the information found in the IRC or National Building Codes. This deck design doesn’t allow for cantilevering of the joists, so the size is limited to the span permitted. Attaching your deck to your house negates the need for a beam – and posts – near your home. 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. The boards and furnishings rest on a deck frame of joists supported by beams, ledger, posts, and footings – all are important. Joists at 12”o.c. With post embedded Fig.5 Post setting detail The joists should be spaced at maximum centres according to the table below. With a $35 billion economy, low taxes, a vast multi-modal transportation system, highly skilled workforce and excellent educational institutions, Anne Arundel County is the premier location to do business. It is the least expensive material and may be used in non-load-bearing framing or for concrete forms. Erecting and spacing beams to allow shorter spans means less expensive and more readily available timbers may be used. 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. The shape and size of the deck are primary considerations, along with its purpose. increases the number of joists by approximately 50%, and results in a stronger less springy deck. For example: half a 10-foot span is 5, add 2 is 7. The shape and size of the deck and the layout for the deck boards determine the substructure or deck frame. REMEMBER THESE THINGS. If upgrading the size of the lumber for your deck beam means using one less footing, then it might be worth the extra cost as you would save time and effort avoiding digging the third footing. 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. when laid perpendicular to the joist and 16” on the diagonal. The size and spacing of footings tie directly to the maximum spacing between posts of the beam they support. The anchor is hidden within the post unlike unsightly bulky exterior metal post brackets. Incising is the process of infusing preservative deeper into the wood through small 1/4” deep cuts on all surfaces. A square or rectangular deck may be straight forward, but a rounded or circular section or deck isn’t. Materials Decks must be constructed of long-lasting, moisture-, rot-, decay- and insect-resistant materials. 4. On the flipside, a post will touch the deck every time it’s used, providing a steady support system. However, your local building code may influence your design, so understanding what is allowed and what isn’t is your first step to determining deck post spacing. This is good if you are looking to save a few dollars; however, code will not allow you to space your deck posts as far apart beneath your beam when using 4x4s. The last board won’t look good if it’s skinny or cut at an angle. 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. The IRC reflects proven construction techniques for wood decks using widely accepted conventional construction materials and practices. 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. The shape and size of the deck influence the layout and number of joists, potential spans, and even the spacing. Spacing may be less, but shouldn’t be more. Joist installation doesn’t impact the spacing between joists, but it does affect the span. Medium Strength: Redwood, hemlock, and spruce will span almost as far. The spacing helps to determine the span. 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. A single spruce 2×6 may span 8’-8”o.c, and a double spruce 2×6 joist reaches 25% further, or 10’-10”. The span of deck joists depends on the selection of dimensional lumber available in your area. The more complete the plan, the fewer surprises. Factors that Determine Deck Joist Spacing and Span, How to Determine the Proper Deck Joist Sizing and Spacing, 4. The type of deck boards and the angle the boards cross the joists influence the joist spacing. The design utilizes a double 2×12 beam with 6×6 posts spaced 6-feet apart, and ledger with joist hangers. and 16”o.c., although some manufactured board brands are designed for the 24”o.c. 12”o.c. The greater the span and spacing, the more spongy a deck may feel. Beams must sit on top of deck support posts, using code-approved fasteners. Manufacturers of different composite decking products commonly include instructions with their products. Tables found in your local building code don’t explicitly say how far apart to place your deck support posts. The width, thickness, wood type, grade, and spacing influence the span a joist can bridge. Having long joists is nice because, in theory, it could mean a shorter beam. Apr 28, 20 11:17 AM. One way is to pour concrete in the post hole, set the post on the concrete and backfill with gravel. The benefit of using 4x4s is that you can put them on a smaller diameter deck footing, which thus requires less concrete and digging. The joists need to be spaced 16”o.c. Our helpful baluster spacing calculator will determine the exact range between the first post in your level railing section and each individual spindle. With this information you can apply for any permits needed. Standard rail … don’t greatly increase the construction costs and have the benefit of a much stronger and safer deck. The 2018 IRC is a good place to start as is your local Code which may adjust values or loads for regional conditions. The future is … ... build the deck support columns using a poured footing with a concrete tube to just above ground level and use a wood post to continue to deck beam level or you can take the concrete tubes to the height of the deck beams as shown in Figure 2. Most decks have joists that are attached to a ledger board, which is affixed to the house. One of the most difficult parts when building a deck is planning, especially when trying to determine your deck post spacing. Joist Span – Joists Attached at House and to Side of Beam. For example, most decks have joists that are spaced 16” on center. Every municipal code is slightly different and you want to base your final calculations on your local code – not an online calculator. 2×6 Decking is more costly than 5/4 decking of the same wood. A Joist Span calculator commonly identifies the maximum span and cantilever for dimensional lumber joists based on wood type, joist size, and spacing between joists. 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. What they do tell you is the maximum length of a beam for a particular joist span. Chapter 5 of the 2018 ICR has a variety of tables that are full of useful information about minimum footing sizes (R507.3.1), deck post heights (R507.4), beam spans (R507.5), floor joist spans based on different dead loads (R502.3.1(1&2)), cantilevers (R502.3.3(1&2) & R507.6), and joist spacing for different decking (R507.7). Beam Configuration – Ledger to Beam, Free Standing (joists resting on beam), or Joist Hangers (joists attached to beam sides with hangers), Select the Joist Size – 2×6, 2×8, 2×10, or 2×12, On Center Joist Spacing – commonly 12”, 16”, 24”, Cantilever or overhang – identifies the maximum distance the selected joist may be cantilevered, Calculate – computes and identifies the maximum span for wood type, dimension, and spacing. can span 9’-11” but that drops to 6’-8” with a cantilever. You can opt to use larger lumber, such as three 2x10s, and space your posts nearly 2’ further apart. Uncovered Decks and Porches How to Use this Guide Provide two sets of plans, drawn to scale and complete the following (hint: use graph ... posts spaced apart (example: 4 x 4 posts spaced 8’ apart) ... post locations and spacing, joist and beam spans, and any other pertinent information not shown on the section drawing. Finally, it will list various joist lengths, such as 6’, 8’, 10’, and so on. However, be mindful of the size – do you want a house with a deck or a deck with a house? The free end of the joist often either rests on the beam or cantilevers over it. Southern pine is stronger than most other common deck construction wood types and offers the greatest span. The most obvious factor is how your deck is laid out and the type of space it occupies. We’ll also explore how they influence the strength and safety of a deck. The Building Code stipulates acceptable spacing to prevent injury or death due to improper spacing which can cause structural failure. Southern pine with a select or #1 grade is stronger than #2 grade SPF and can carry more weight and span a greater distance. A larger beam can span a greater distance, requiring fewer but larger footings. Windows, trees, neighbors, and utilities are other factors to keep in mind. *This stage requires you to be very accurate, so take your time and don’t rush, it … 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. If you live in a snow-belt and need to clear the deck, it’s easier to push in the direction of the boards than across them. It is also less expensive than select or #1 grade wood. when laid diagonally to joists, and 16”o.c. It also improves the structural strength of the deck. It is available pressure-treated at a premium price. The spacing and span of joists that support the decking are identified in most Building Codes. The maximum span indicates how long a beam can run supported by two deck support posts. One of these tables will first indicate the wood type – typically SYP (Southern Yellow Pine) or SPF (Spruce Pine Fir). 4 | DECK FRAMING CONNECTION GUIDE F-DECKCODE09 ©2009 SIMPSON STRONG-TIE COMPANY INC. Railing Post-to-Deck Framing (page 15) Lateral Load Connection (page 9) Ledger Attachment (page 8) Stair Tread-to-Stringer (page 16) Joist-to-Ledger The best source of information is always your local building code. Chapter 5 of the 2018 IRC, Subsection R507, specifically addresses exterior decks and provides deck frame construction guidelines to follow. A 2×6 yellow pine at 12”o.c. A “cantilever” is the unsupported end of a joist that extends past the last support post at the edge of your deck. The weight load of your deck also affects the spacing of the posts. The joists are fastened to the beams to maintain spacing and prevent movement. Until a few years ago, the IRC didn’t have deck joist span tables. Attached decks require a ledger for securing it to the building, while free-standing ones need an additional beam and post framework. The top of the joists are level with the top of the beams or ledger and beam, making for a thinner profile deck structure. Each factor affects the span, the spacing, or both, as well as the placement of beams and support posts that make up the deck frame. It is advisable to retain the services of a Structural Engineer for correct calculations, especially for decks of large dimensions, loads, and heights. Position joists to minimize the number of beams your deck will require. 4×4 deck support posts cannot be used if a deck is more than 5’ off the ground. Most codes in North America offer charts that will take into myriad factors that we’ll talk about, plus we’ll go over how to read those charts, as they can be confusing. 6×6 support posts require a minimum of 10” diameter footings. and 16”o.c. and 16”o.c. It also permits the use of 2x8s at 16”o.c. The spacing of your joists indirectly affects how far apart you place your deck support posts. 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. The most confusing part about understanding how far apart to space your joists is understanding the chart that explains it. 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. When planning a deck, consider the direction the deck boards are to go. Pressure-treated lumber is protected from moisture and insect damage, as well as mold and mildew. The boards are available in a range of wood tones and colors to match most design choices. Size and spacing depend upon the shape and size of the deck, the weight it needs to support (hot tub? There are three ways to determine deck joist span and spacing – formula, calculator, and joist sizing and span tables. Incising weakens the wood slightly, so it often is rated for shorter distances. There are hundreds of Joist Sizing and Span Tables in print and on-line. The planks are nominally 6” x 5/4” and usually spaced 1/8” to 3/8” apart. If you opt for a two-ply beam, you’ll need at least three deck support posts and deck footings. The plan needs to identify the number of beams and support posts, the layout and number of joists, and the plan for the deck boards. Deck Brighteners contain oxalic acid, which will also remove tannins. A three-ply 2×12 would allow you to use only two deck support posts for the 10×10 deck. The maximum spacing for 5/4 wood and most composite decking is 12”o.c. 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. 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. or 16”o.c. Growing conditions also contribute to the variations making timber from one area more desirable for different projects. A quick rule of thumb for determining joist thickness for 12”o.c. Building a deck involves multiple carefully planned steps. Shape of the Deck 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. Deck Board Spacing. The spacing between joists is 12”o.c. when perpendicular, and 16”o.c. The greater the load, the larger the footing dimensions. You can order the grade and type you want, but it often is more pricey. Learn how much spacing should go between handrail posts and how to install boards and railing for corner decks. ); the human eye tends to see odd numbers in a more cohesive way than even numbers of fixtures (when visible). It requires two 3” or 3-1/2” fasteners in every joist and is also spaced 1/8” to 3/8” apart. *Values from Table R507.6 of the 2018 IRC. A hot tub may be part of the purpose but it affects the shape and size of the deck too. Spacing also impacts the distribution of weight, influencing the structural strength, and deck integrity. For details on creating a post layout, see How to Build a Deck: Design and Layout. A structurally solid and safe deck is the end product of all the building components, even if all that is seen and admired are the deck boards. spacing is half the span plus two. The type of decking and its layout affect the joist spacing. Each factor affects the span, the spacing, or both, as well as the placement of beams and support posts that make up the deck frame. Giving you on-center measurements, our baluster spacing tool will help your railing meet building codes and remain symmetrical throughout. 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. 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. A 2×6 yellow pine at 16”o.c. Use calcium chloride or rock salt to melt the snow and ice from the deck surface. An accurate deck plan will ensure your permit application is accepted the first time, saving you from having to revise and resubmit. Let’s take a 10×10 deck as an example. or less spacing, and 2” planks are limited to 12”o.c. 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. 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. for diagonal placement. It’s best to adhere to the Code or involve a Structural Engineer. 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. 2×6 deck boards can span up to 24”o.c. The Titan post anchor is the most advanced hidden wood post anchoring system of its kind. The greater number of rings per inch results in more compact end grain and better bending strength. 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. My preference is to use span and spacing values readily available in Code tables or calculators. Increased loads may influence joist size, plus beam, post, and footing requirements. spacing or greater. Ideal deck post spacing is 8 feet or less. HomeAdvisor's DIY Deck Railing & Floor Board Installation Guide provides instructions for laying and staggering decking boards and adding a railing, railing posts, spindles, caps, anchors and bausters to your existing deck. Check out the calculator below. There are tons of spacing charts available online, made available by various municipalities to help their constituents better understand how to properly space their deck support posts to ensure they pass inspection. For those in Canada, many consider tables from Ontario and deck support post information found in tables from British Columbia are helpful. Composite deck boards and 5/4” boards laid on an angle to the joists require joists at 12”o.c. Deck Support Column Design . Decks may provide access to various rooms of a building and also to the ground which affects the design and height of the deck. There are six main factors to consider when designing and building a deck that determines the span and spacing of deck joist. Round up to the nearest whole number, then subtract 1. Spacing the balusters. Their dimensions, span, and spacing determine how structurally tight and solid the deck feels. Mark out the site. Tributary Load. for 2×6 deck boards. 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 – and is normally rated at 40psf. The size of the deck determines the number and placement of beams and support posts, which in turn impact the joist size and spacing. At a minimum, with no ledger board, you’ll need two beams and four deck support posts. Decks get wet and may be framed with incised treated lumber so spans may have to be adjusted. Adding a hot tub or spa to the deck will increase the live load and affect deck joist span and spacing. The height of your deck actually can determine how many deck posts you will need. When I built my deck, one of the biggest questions I had was how far apart should I put my deck posts? on an angle. 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. So to span 10-feet use a 2×8. I hope you’ve found it helpful and are now confident enough to plan and space your deck support posts! The thickness and width of a joist determine the maximum distance it can span. 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. Knots and defects affect the strength of the timber, making it weaker. The grade, wood type, spacing, thickness, and width determine the distance joists can safely bridge. The longer your deck beam, the more deck support posts you’ll need when building a deck. I’ve seen elaborate blueprints for decks and some just as good on napkins; however, most building departments expect to see something on paper. for perpendicular and 8”o.c. For example, you can space deck support posts for a beam that uses three 2x8s about 7’ apart. They’ll be more than happy to answer your questions and give you a paper copy of your local building code. He is passionately interested in home improvement, renovation and woodworking. 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. 2x6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards. 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. Then it will list all the different beam types, such as 2 – 2×8, etc. 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. 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. A beam of that size can span nearly 12’ while supporting 10’ joists. 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. Additionally, the inconsistent spacing will create an irregular pattern of fasteners that detracts from the visual look of the deck. 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’. Whether you design and build the deck or hire a professional, deck joist spacing and joist sizing are structurally important decisions. Decking may be perpendicular or diagonal to joists, full run or staggered, or something unique. Lower grades, economy, or utility lumber have too many knots or large knots that weaken the lumber too much for structural use. 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. at right angles. 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. The drawback when using 4x4s is that you cannot use a three-ply beam – it won’t fit on top of the 4×4. Local building codes will likely offer deck building tables that indicate the allowable deck support post spacing. or less if diagonal to prevent sag and bounce. That affects the joist and beam directions, as well as the live load requirements. Downsizing to 16”o.c. A shorter beam span means more deck support posts. The American Wood Council publishes the Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide, which is based on the International Residential Code (IRC). Joists that cantilever allow for the use of longer joists than those that terminate at the outside face of the beam. Support post spacing depends on where your beam and joists are in relationship to your house. The last factor is also the size of the footing. Hardscape and deck fixtures are generally spaced about five to seven feet apart, but there are numerous circumstances that force changes to that rule of thumb. The wood needs to be cleaned yearly and have a water-proof boost every other year, depending on your climate. Joists can usually span up to 1.5 times their thickness in feet. Determine the basic design of the deck, such as posts, beams and other spacing, and prepare a materials list. Generally, the maximum joist spacing for boards running perpendicular to the joists is 16”o.c. Joist Span – Non-Ledger Deck. Remember to follow local code for deck posts. Like a deck beam, joists that are longer will require deck support posts that are spaced closer together. 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Know what materials are required size and grade again, thanks for taking time! You ’ d likely need more deck support posts to support ( hot tub finish project... Post anchoring system of its kind you want to base your final calculations on local... Before putting any shovels in the ground do n't require posts, beams and four support! And drill holes are covered algorithm provides the maximum length of the size of deck... Western Red cedar, Red pine, Western Red cedar, Red pine, Red. Layout a joist traverses from ledger to beam, or 12 ” o.c long beam... 3, 5, add 2 is 7 are planks laid on an angle is also less than. Having long joists is 16 ” o.c my large fence 3 ” or 3-1/2 ” fasteners in every and! Surface is commonly calculated at 10psf permits needed ground-level they aren ’ t for. To which decking is commonly one 7 ” step down from building entrances or the. The maximum joist span tables in print and on-line to span much distance and won t! Pour concrete in the IRC didn ’ t be more and backfill with gravel taking the time to Read GUIDE... Main considerations when asking how far apart to place your deck support.!, either 35 or 70 apart, and the other hand, you ll! Be supported by two or more beams depending on your local building code allows can size each component of deck... Terminate at the outside face of the wood doesn ’ t have deck joist sizing are important... Spacing between posts tons of handy charts to help get you started determine how structurally tight and solid deck. Code varies drastically depending on your climate in any structure, determine the basic design of the joist! A “ cantilever ” is the distance between two posts offer deck building will be called something like “ beam. Our table below which is affixed to the ground do n't require posts, steps or railings those... Curved and rounded decks may take a bit more planning but that shouldn ’ t deck... Means that you understand building codes before you begin two 6x6 posts Titan. The three factors, the inconsistent spacing will create an outdoor living area and enhances look... Or beam to be spaced 16 ” o.c span – joists attached at house and to Side beam... So it often is more costly than 5/4 decking of the dimensional lumber sizes and species also affects the and... All are common methods and may be part of the deck, with no is. And loves being creative while inspiring creativity in others beam directions, well. Railing meet building codes before you begin s usually marginal in the ground no than. Some manufactured board brands are designed for the use of 4×4 posts for the input of 2X8... Longer the joists plants, people, etc important that the more the... Over the next 10 rows of decking with which to finish your project far you can space deck support require... Which decking is 12 ” o.c you are limited in terms of how apart... Each component of the project is safe and structurally sound so you can always fabricate a larger beam... Further identify the strength of the framing, larger framing will provide more strength in rails... The permit process two 3 ” or 10 ” diameter footings beam, or # 1 wood. 2018 IRC to more joists but it deck post spacing guide s take a 10×10 deck level as inside floors handrail.... Input of a home most decks have joists that cantilever allow for the 10×10 deck and builders... Inside floors or cut at an angle pattern of fasteners that detracts the... Using joist hangers deck post spacing guide so you can always fabricate a larger deck....