Should you use 4×4 or 6×6 deck posts? check this out | 6×6 post dimensions

While there may be a handful of circumstances that only require the minimum 4×4 deck post, you will more than likely want to choose a 6×6 post for the deck. It provides more stability for larger decks, the ability to hold a heavier load, and more room for notching.

In North America, the lumber industry defines standard wood post sizes as 4×4 or 6×6. The outside dimensions of the standard 4×4 measure 3-1/2″ x 3-1/2″, and the outside dimensions of the standard 6×6 measure 5-1/2″ x 5-1/2″.

Are 6×6 posts actually 6×6?

The common size 6×6 and the actual size 5.5 x 5.5 are not true. These posts are true to size at 6×6.

What does 6×6 nominal mean?

When you see the word ‘Nominal’ next to lumber sizes, it means that the actual dimensions of the wood are smaller than what the sales name implies. was ‘green wood’, or wood that was rough and unfinished. After drying and planing, the wood would be approximately 3.5 in. x 3.5 in.

How much weight can a 6×6 post hold vertically?

The load capacity of a 3-foot #2 grade 4×4 is 17,426 pounds, and a similar 6×6 is 20,834 pounds or 16% better. However, an 8-foot 4×4 supports 6468-pounds and 2339-pounds at 14-feet, while a 6×6 is 18032 and 10550-pounds respectively – or 64% and 78% more load capacity.

How far apart can 6×6 posts be?

Post Anchors are made to support a maximum raililng height of 42 inches. The maximum spacing of 4×4 deck posts should be 6 feet on center, while the maximum spacing of 6×6 deck posts should be 8 feet on center.

How far can you span a 6×6?

A 6 x 6 beam spans up to 14 feet and should not be used as a beam because it is not able to cover the load, not even the roofing. 6 x 6 can support a 4000 lbs weight if one uses it in a double beam way. Try using a bigger beam with a better span.

How tall can a 6×6 post be?

The DCA6 recommends minimum 6×6 posts with a maximum 12-foot height.

How can I make my deck longer?

Doweling is another way to add shear strength. Post caps and metal plates are another way to lengthen posts. Add a wooden sleeve overlay to any of these methods, and the post should be strong enough to do its job.

What are the actual dimensions of a 1×6?

A 1×6, for example, actually measures 3/4″ x 5 1/2″. In this case, the planing is necessary for a smoother surface, so that the board could be used for interior applications.

Why is lumber smaller than the size it says?

Typically, that rough cut is smaller than the nominal dimensions because modern technology makes it possible to use the logs more efficiently. For example, a “2×4” board historically started out as a green, rough board actually 2 by 4 inches (51 mm × 102 mm).

Why is dimensional lumber not actual size?

The “nominal” cross-section dimensions of a piece of lumber, such as 2 X 4 or 1 X 6, are always somewhat larger than the actual, or dressed, dimensions. The reason is that dressed lumber has been surfaced or planed smooth on four sides (called S4S). The nominal measurement is made before the lumber is surfaced.

Can a 6×6 be used as a beam?

The distance a 6×6 can span as a beam depends on the species of wood, grade, grain orientation, moisture content or seasoning, condition, and load. Southern Pine (SP) 6x6s will span 5” to 8” further than other common softwood species of the same grade.

How big of a beam do I need to span 20 feet?

Wood beam size for a 20 foot span:- as per general thumb rule, for a 20 foot span, size of wood beam or lumber joist should be 2×14 which placed at 16″ apart from centre used for residential building or projects or construction in which depth of section of beam is 350mm (14″) and width of beam is 50 mm or 2″.

How much weight can a 6×6 support horizontally?

A 6×6 with 12′ span can support 2000 lbs. if you assume a conservative 1400psi bending stress. If you do a good job bonding the two members together, your double 6×6 can support more than 4,000 lbs.

Should deck post be set in concrete?

A deck post should always be placed on top of footing, not inside concrete because it can break. Concrete tends to absorb moisture and wood expands when it gets wet, so these two factors combined will result in the wood breaking the concrete.