30 foot wide deck, how do I splice the beam?
I’m building a 30 foot wide deck. As far as I can tell, nobody sells 30 foot lumber.
The beam is going to have to be 2 ply 2×10 or 3 ply 2×8 look at the code table based on the joist spans and the distance between the footings. What is the best way to splice it together? Sandwiched together at the top of the 15 foot post? Or some sort of pattern? The posts are 6×6, so I have some room.
Additionally, would one of Simpson’s post caps be the way to go? Are they rated for that application?
Replies
Here's how I would do it for the splices.
You can either do a shoulder cut that a double 2X can sit in and be bolted to the post or use a piece of hardware to connect the post to the 3-2x beam. If you are in an area with seismic concerns or high winds (coastal) you will need to consult an engineer for different hardware/connections. Due to your 15' height, you may also have to upsize the posts to 8x8 or steel if you are in those areas.
Sorry, I meant to say the post at the 15 foot interval. The deck is only 2 feet high.
But the information you posted was very helpful. Thanks
The application notes for that fastener specifies that use with spliced beams is not permitted.