I am currently in the process of building a new home. I will have a large covered deck off of the rear of the house.
My question is I plan to use the same posts to support the deck and the roof over it. What is the best way to go about doing this? I have seen alot of info -here and elsewhere- that notching the beam into the post is the best way. If I use 6X6 posts will it be safe to notch 3 inches out of it for the outside beam?? This will only leave 2 1/2 inches or so of the post around the beam then back to full width to carry up to the roof, will this be adequate?? It seems to me that this would really weaken the post, but hey what do I know thats why I am asking you guys.
I am open to suggestions and would appreciate any information.
Thanks
Jim
Replies
Your details are sketchy, but if the notch for the beam is done properly, snug and through bolted, the load of the roof system will transfer along the remaining portion of the post, as well as the portion of the beam that has been inserted into the notch, at least in theory. Have notched many 6x6s for double beams and haven't had a failure yet. Avoid notching areas where there are large knots.
Check out this site http://www.deckbuilder.com you'll find some interesting updated ideas about decks and notching posts. It seams a bad idea to notch a post around the beam. I used to do it all the time but now I do things a little differently.
Check on the info about notching post along a deck used for railing, a very interesting failure issue. They also talk about some great anchoring and lateral attachment hardware from Simpson you might consider.
You don't need to notch it. Through bolting it and maybe putting a metal bracket under it is easier and leaves the beam intact.
Thanks for the responses. I guess I will take a look at other methods of attachment. I did read a couple of things about notches, and one said they could crack along the grain. hmmmm
Jim