ENDelt's deck thread

Originally Posted by Donger

Does anyone (Phob?) know if it's acceptable to use 2"x6"x8' for framing and joists? Deck's going to be 8' x 8' and will not have much weight on it. I know the 2x6s are fine for the decking, but I was curious if the framing and joists need to be 2x8s or if I can get by with 2x6s.

Thanks.

If the deck is 12" or less off the ground, yes you can use 2X6 for the joists. Anything higher should use 2x8

[Donger]

Originally Posted by Phobia

If the deck is 12" or less off the ground, yes you can use 2X6 for the joists. Anything higher should use 2x8

Thanks Phob. That's 12" or less at the top or the bottom of the deck?

Originally Posted by Donger

Thanks Phob. That's 12" or less at the top or the bottom of the deck?

Well, the purpose of the "rule" or code is to prevent falls in case of breakage. So, it must be 12" from the top of the decking. It may even be 18" in your area. You would need to check with a local building inspector or call your housing authority.

[Donger]

Originally Posted by Phobia

Well, the purpose of the "rule" or code is to prevent falls in case of breakage. So, it must be 12" from the top of the decking. It may even be 18" in your area. You would need to check with a local building inspector or call your housing authority.

Thanks again. I'm pretty sure that it'll be less than 12" at the top of the decking.

[Skip Towne]

Originally Posted by Phobia

If the deck is 12" or less off the ground, yes you can use 2X6 for the joists. Anything higher should use 2x8

Is that because the atmosphere is thinner above 12"?