Originally posted by Emmett Greenleaf:
What does your local code call for ? Many areas today have sample deck plans including charts to select wood sizes for the job based on span.
4x8 running across the 16' dimension sounds like overkill even spaced 16". Check it out.
I hope it is overkill, as it would be nice to spend less!
The trouble with all of the sample deck plans is that they assume the ability to have supports every 4 ft. or so. In this case, I can't do that. The same is somewhat true of the codes I can find... And the span charts all include info that I don't understand, such as how much spring is to be tolerated.
I am hoping someone can give me a range such as, "2x8s 24" on center would support as much weight as most decks need, but it would be awefully springy... 2x10s 16" on center would be more firm."
Or, "4x8s 24" on center will be stronger than 2x10s." or visa versa.
The thing is, I'm not really sure this is even in the ballpark.
Thanks agan for any info.
