Free standing deck, steep slope, high wind?

1127 Views 8 Replies 5 Participants Last post by carpdad, Apr 21, 2020

NCMtn

Discussion Starter · Apr 20, 2020 (Edited)

Hey Everyone, I would love to hear some expert opinions on the best way for me to proceed on the below scenario.

I plan on building a 12 x 12 deck on a fairly steep slope in the NC Mountains, (6x12 pitch), where the wind gusts will reach 60 to 80 MPH every year. In addition I eventually would add a small bunk house on part of the deck in the future.

Part of my problem is in addition to being steep the ground is fairly rocky so digging the post holes in the desired locations for lining up the holes is a challenge. For this reason I have the following questions:

Would using just 4 6x6 posts be acceptable. If not, would 4 8x8 posts work. I would rather dig 4 larger holes then 6 to 9 smaller holes which would almost be impossible to line up. I realize I would have to use larger joists etc., but that is fine.
Would a cantilever style work better for my scenario since I could have the posts a little closer together and still achieve a 12 x 12. If so, how strong are they in the wind.

I do plan on using joist hangers and diagonal supports etc. to help with structural integrity.

Thanks for your replies.

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Nealtw

· #2 · Apr 20, 2020

Are you thinking about planting the posts in concrete? I wouldn't.
Measuring 12 ft on a slope is no rocket science.
You just need 2 straight 2x4s pre mark the distance on a 14 foot one and prop it up level for the high spot and at the lower spot plumb down to mark the hole.

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Nealtw

· #4 · Apr 20, 2020

NCMtn said:
Hey Neal, Thanks for the reply. Measuring where to put the posts is not a problem. Having trouble lining up is due to the rocky terrain. I was hoping to answer the below questions. Most 12 x 12 deck plans show at least 6 posts being used mostly with 4 x 4 posts. I am wondering if any one can confirm that using just 4 6x6 posts would be acceptable based on a 12 foot span in each direction. From my limited knowledge it appears so if the joists are at least 2 x 10's. Just looking for confirmation from more seasoned experts.

Would using just 4 6x6 posts be acceptable. If not, would 4 8x8 posts work. I would rather dig 4 larger holes then 6 to 9 smaller holes which would almost be impossible to line up. I realize I would have to use larger joists etc., but that is fine.

Would a cantilever style work better for my scenario since I could have the posts a little closer together and still achieve a 12 x 12. If so, how strong are they in the wind.

4x4 are fence posts and normally it would 4, our normal would be 6x6 but the wind might want you to go to 8x8,

Cantilever is fine but the roof posts want to be directly above the lower posts

Finding the 3 hole is easy too.

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Free standing deck, steep slope, high wind?

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