Main Beam Question for Cantilevered Deck

08-31-2010, 12:06 PM	#1
xenos911 Newbie   Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 2	Main Beam Question for Cantilevered Deck Hello, I am building a Cantilevered Deck. I have a question about the main beam. My deck is 20 feet long, but the longest wood that the hardware store had was 14 feet(which does not cover the length of the beam). Therefore, I am wondering if it is possible (and safe) to attach the 2x10s head on and if so, what areas should i put the beams head on. I know they have that flat piece of metal with the like 80 nails which goes into it which is 'supposed' to hold them together when putting them head on, but I am wondering hwo strong that will make it. or is is possible to attach 4 lag bolts to one of the 4x4 posts and attach the segments of the beam there? Thanks a ton, Justin

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08-31-2010, 12:41 PM	#2
Gary in WA Moderator   Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 8,782	Main Beam Question for Cantilevered Deck You can splice a built-up beam with the ends over a bearing post to get the required length. Consult your local building Department for a permit to be safe and continued coverage by your H.O.Insurance carrier for liability with a paper trail. The basic safety Code for decks: http://www.lancova.com/deckinfo.pdf Gary __________________ Clothes taking longer to dry? Clean the dryer screen in HOT water if using fabric softener sheets. They leave a residue that impedes air-flow, costing you money. Clean the ducting in the last six months? 17,000 dryer fires annually!

08-31-2010, 01:11 PM	#3
xenos911 Newbie   Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 2	Main Beam Question for Cantilevered Deck Thanks for your reply gary should 4 x 1/2" lag bolts be used for the post connecting the main beam?

08-31-2010, 07:39 PM	#4
Gary in WA Moderator   Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 8,782	Main Beam Question for Cantilevered Deck It's all in the Deck Code, through bolts. Gary __________________ Clothes taking longer to dry? Clean the dryer screen in HOT water if using fabric softener sheets. They leave a residue that impedes air-flow, costing you money. Clean the ducting in the last six months? 17,000 dryer fires annually!