overhead deck

shaggyda

I plan to build a overhead deck (12'x27') and attach it to the house. Below the deck is a concrete patio. Can I use a beam and posts on top of the patio slab or do I need to bring the deck out past the slab and use deck blocks or poured footer? Any advice will help.

manhattan42

Since the deck will be attached to the house, building codes require the supporting columns be placed on properly sized footings installed below frost level or a minimum of 12" deep depending on your location.

Call your local code office for particulars.

shaggyda

thanks for your help. Lets say that I am not concerned with meeting code. I just want to see if a 5"+ slab will support the load ? can anybody help me with this? Thanks

lxdollarsxl

mmmmmm well if you dont meet with the codes for your local area, and say there is a collapse and possible injuries, guess who will be hung out to dry.

As for the question of 5in supporting it properly, the answer is no, thats why there are codes.

shaggyda

Okay I am familiar with code and not worried about it. I'm also not a bit worried about collapse. I feel that the slab will support the weight (it is 4000psi). I guess my real qestion is...should I add any saw cuts to the slab near my posts or is there little risk if major cracks? I hope that everyone can put code aside for this one and hopefully someone that knows will read this.

manhattan42

Code is the issue and cannot be put aside. Code is the proper minimum building technique.

What you are suggesting is not only structurally unsound, it is foolish.

An attached deck requires a full footing, otherwise lifting of the slab and hence the deck from soil freezing and thawing and soil settling from the added weight can cause the deck to pull out from the house risking collapse.

A raised deck also has to be properly secured vertically against wind loads which can lift the deck like a wing in a severe storm and rip it from the house.


Without proper footings, your deck is prone to fail and you put at risk anyone who uses it.

You cannot achieve these things by installing it on a slab.

Do it right or don't bother to ask us how to help you to do it WRONG.