[Brandonc2q88]

Hey everyone, looking for advice on which kind of bracing to use on my freestanding cantilever pool deck I'm building.

The 6x6 posts are about 2' high, sitting on top of concrete forms with post anchor hardware. I'm looking to add some lateral strength since they're not buried way down into the ground. The space between posts is about 8'. I'm thinking using some 2x4's in a bracing pattern between all the posts (both from front to back and side to side) will be my best option.

See attached images for context.

I'm wondering if K bracing would be stronger given that I can just cut it to create the 45 degree angles and attach to the beam near the center point between posts. (option A)

Or alternatively, maybe X bracing is the strongest option even though the angles are not anywhere close to 45 degrees (option B). Not really sure how that negatively impacts the rigidity the bracing is supposed to provide, though?


Please let me know your thoughts!

 

[Nealtw]

B only works if you have joists the line up with the post.

A one 2x4 does the job, the second one is for looks.

 

[Brandonc2q88]

The beams line up, so I could do K bracing parallel with beams and X bracing parallel with joists possibly.

Basically, my main concern is that the X bracing may not be AS strong as it otherwise would be when not at a 45 degree angle, and instead a really strong acute angle (height of post is only 2', but it's roughly 7'-8' from post to post)... whereas with the K bracing I'll be able to create a 45 degree angle.

I know usually the X bracing is stronger but the limitations with the angles due to the height of the posts has me questioning things...

 

[carpdad]

I agree that x braces are over board at that height. Also x braces should be tied in the middle.

 

[rmoore853]

Based on the drawing, I would prefer x bracing. As shown, the height is 2 ft. x bracing is ideal.

 

[HotRodx10]

I would recommend K braces, but extend them out to meet in the middle of the joist.