How high can a 4×4 post support?

Maximum Allowable Height for a 4×4 Deck Support Post The maximum allowable 4×4 deck support post height under the 2015 IRC is 8-feet. The longer a post, the more likely it is to bend under load than shorter posts, thus the limit set on the height of 4×4 posts.

How do you install a 4×4 post on a wood deck?

The quickest and most secure way to mount a wooden 4×4 or 6×6 deck post to an existing deck surface is via a Titan Post Anchor. Titan Anchors provide a solid, powder-coated steel connection point for your wooden post to attach to the surface below.

Can 4×4 support a deck?

In the past, many decks were built with 4×4 support posts (also called structural posts). But these can bow seriously, even if a deck is only 3 feet off the ground. For that reason, we strongly recommend that you use 6x6s instead, even if your building department does not demand them.

How do you reinforce deck support posts?

Reinforce post connections Strengthen post connections with carriage bolts. Drill holes, knock the bolts through, then tighten a washer and nut on the other side. Ideally, posts should sit directly under the beam or rim joist to support the deck.

How tall should 4×4 posts be on a deck?

According to the American Forest and Paper Association, or AFPA, a four-by-four post made from Douglas fir or southern pine should be no higher than 10 feet, and at that height the post can support no more 36 square feet under a load of 50 pounds per square foot.

How deep do decking support posts need to be?

Set footers a minimum of 6” below the frost line for your area to prevent movement during freezing temperatures. Pour about 6 inches of all-purpose gravel into postholes and pack the gravel tight by using the end of a wooden post.

What size bolts to use for deck posts?

For the heaviest connections on a deck, such as where ledgers attach to the house or to posts, use 1/2-inch bolts or lags.

How much weight will a 4×4 post hold?

Typically, an 8-foot 4×4 supported at both ends will safely support about 500-pounds in the center. Spreading the weight out along the same 4×4 will increase the load limit to around 1,000-pounds.

How much weight can a 4×4 post support horizontally?

4×4 can hold up to 4,000 pounds when laying horizontally with the right support. Vertically, a 4×4 should support 4300 pounds but can hold significantly more. The amount of weight that a 4×4 can hold depends on several factors like wood grade, species, and load type.

How do you reinforce a wooden deck post?

How far apart should deck support posts be?

Starting with your perimeter, mark the location of each deck post to locate the fitting position. In general, posts should be spaced no more than 8 feet apart. Some builders position them every 4 feet for a completely rigid frame. The maximum distance between footings is determined by the size of your joist material.