Longer Beams, Split?

sachins04 · 10-06-2007, 12:09 AM

I am building a free standing deck, height will be around 25-29" above the ground. But length of deck or beam is 24' parallel to the house. Since I can only get max. beam = 16' long, I have to split the beams(3 - 2X10s) on top of 4X6 post I plan to use to make a longer beam. Well I dont need to use 3 beams, I can use just 2 - 2X10' on top of the beam. I can have 2X6 joists on top of it. That leaves me 29/25-(10+6+1) = 12"/10" for posts. I have 5 posts in a line.

What is the best method for installing split beams, I have read 2 methods but dont know which one is better:
1. Put the 2 outer 2X10s beams with split centered on top of 4th post (16' + 8') with middle beam split on some other post(2nd) in the line 6-7' down the line.
With this, I will have 2 splits along the 24 ' line.
2. Put all 3 -2X10s split on top of the same 4th post with metal fasteners.
With this, I will have 1 split along the 24 ' line

Anyone has any experience on this type of scenario?
Thanks in advance
Sach

robertcdf · 10-06-2007, 01:13 AM

Split them dirrectly in the CENTER of the posts and break on differant posts each time. This overlap will make it stronger.

sachins04 · 10-11-2007, 07:23 PM

Alright so you are suggesting option 1,
Also I have decided to use just 2 (2X10s) than 3 on top of 4X6 posts and put the beams on top of the post as you are suggesting.
I would say using sandwich method (putting beams on side of post) may nnot be that good idea especially with split beams? any suggestions,

Ron6519 · 10-11-2007, 11:15 PM

I would use two boards, offsetting the connection. Take a 16" and an 8' and offset the boards and bolt them together. Have the two splices sit on posts and space the other posts as needed. The splices will be 8' apart. Have the unit sit on top of the posts using Simpson connectors.
Ron

sachins04 · 10-12-2007, 11:38 PM

Ron,Thanks for the suggestion,
But How do you offset? I attached a picture here, I butt joint 16' + 8' pieces to make 24' beam and then bolt another 8' + 16' beam opposite to first one as you see in pic.
1 more question since i am using 4X6 POST, which side should beam stay on 4" to match 2 (2X10) or on 6" side with 1" plywood of PT on each side of beam to match 6"?

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Ron6519 · 10-13-2007, 12:01 PM

I would have the beam sit on the 6" length as to give it more support.
Ron