Everyone,
I’m building a screen porch with a gable roof. The plans call for 4×4 posts to run from the deck framing to the roof as roof supports and a double 2×8 header all around (which is also the top plate) My question is how to handle the corners. I’ll have two 2x headers meeting over a single 4×4 in the corner. I can’t sit both on the 4×4 without some form of a lap joint. Do I sit one on the 4×4 and use a metal fastener for the other? This is my first structural framing project. I appreciate the input.
Thanks again.
FR
Replies
Here's a thought
View Image
Just A Guy With A Hammer
Edited 2/3/2009 9:50 am by jagwah
Thanks for the suggestion. I can do that set up. Do you think I would I be better off just substituting 4x6s for the four corner posts so the header will seat better on the support. I'm trying to keep the screen porch as "open" as possible, but another 1.5 inches on the corner may not be a big deal.
FR
Certainly that would give more bearing surface but I don't think it will matter that much.
MHO is that people generally make post and columns to small in appearence not structural.
Just A Guy With A Hammer
Don't but the header joints over the post, make a mitered joint, more bearing area and looks 'prettier' and more professional to boot.
Let's not confuse the issue with facts!
If the beams are final but otherwise leave the butt joints alone and skin with 1 x material.
Just A Guy With A Hammer
Guys,I would definitely miter if this was exposed beam, but this will be wrapped in Azek. But I may go with the 4x6 anyway. It'll give the corner posts a little more weight. That was a good point.Thanks guys. FR
Just weave the corner in a herringbone pattern, working from the inside out. One of the inside header members will only catch the 4x4 with 1/2", but it really doesn't matter much since it all winds up laminated together anyway. if it really bothers you just add a metal angle to the inside corner.
Edit to say that now that I look at the first drawing in response to you, that's what I just said. Done it that way many times.
Steve
Edited 2/3/2009 10:48 pm by mmoogie
Thanks Steve.
FR