Hi Will,

I will actually be building the structure in Ontario (cottage)so I will have to consider snow load. If I follow the design on page 141 with the longer top plate, will I be able to lift the beam by myself? Im trying to design this so I can manage the pieces.
There is a sawmill 40 minutes from my place so the wood will be actual dimensions but I expect I will have to square them up losing some dimension.
So to get enough wood in my joints, then I should use the 8x8 post and beams to ensure I have a safe building?