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Beam Span, Construction, and Connections

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Learn joist span and reading a span chart ๐Ÿ’ช #deck #joistspan #spanchart #learn #carpentry

What happens here

This step focuses on the "beam span," which is defined as the distance between supporting posts. Deck beams are typically made from multiple pieces of lumber (e.g., "double or triple 2x material") fastened together to form a larger, stronger beam, as they are required to hold the full weight of the deck. The video highlights two crucial connection types: the "post-to-beam connection" and the "post-to-concrete connection." It demonstrates the use of a metal post base connector with a 1-inch stand-off, explaining that this stand-off prevents the post from direct contact with concrete, thereby preventing rot. Additionally, "hurricane ties" are shown as a vital connection between the joist and beam to resist uplift forces.

Goal: Comprehend beam span, construction methods, and critical connections for deck support.

Tools and materials

  • Beam โ€” Showing a constructed beam made from multiple pieces, Hurricane tie Unknown

What they say

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joists are going to have to be bigger than let's say if you did 16 on center. This distance from here to here is your beam span. Your beam is typically double or triple 2x material. It requires post to beam connection here and then a post to concrete connection here. This here allows for an inch of stand-off. So, when you install your post, you don't get rot in this bottom section. Also, where your joist meets your beam, you need to have hurricane ties. This helps resist uplift. This here is a span chart. You see here we have species,

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