Deck and patio?

Question

Im building a 10 x 12 deck cantalever style 12 wide 10 off the wall .how far should the main beam be from the wall. 4x4 posts with 4x8 beam and 2x8 joist 5/4 x 6 decking 5 foot above grade...thanks

Answer 1

I'm not sure what you think you mean by cantilever deck.

Cantilever means hanging out unsupported. If you mean how far past your beams can you let your deck hang out using 2" x8" joist I would say don't go past beam farther than 3'.

Answer 2

if a cantilever type I wouldn't go any LESS then 8 1/2 feet out from the building

Answer 3

Everyone's answer means nothing to you "akajrg".  You must follow what your local code requires.  Every state/township has their own codes.  Currently in Pennsylvania the code says you may go no farther than 4' off of your beam.  Other states might say different.  Also depending on where you live, especially if you have frozen winters, you might have to bury your posts in concrete 3' deep.  In PA you must bury your concrete/post below the frost line (3').  4x4's are usually OK for building codes nationwide if only 5' above grade, but check with your township zoning officer first.  And get the permit.  If you do it wrong and the zoning officer happens to see it (some townships they will drive around looking for construction sites) you are fined every day until it's done right or torn down.  The code is there for your safety.

Answer 4

I build my deck last summer with my father-in-law and it's the same size as your's. I used six 6x6 posts plus I anchored it to the house, but this was probably a bit of overkill. Did the 6 posts only because the post-hole digger guy I hired would have charged the same for up to 6 holes. For your deck 5 feet above grade, I'd use 6x6 posts sunk into holes and cast in concrete, NOT the blocks that just sit on the ground with a recess for the post to sit in.

I believe I used the same lumber for the beams and joists, but I used 2x6 for the decking. Again, probably overkill, but it's pretty sturdy. 1x6 is probably enough.

My father-in-law jokes that if a hurricane knocked down the house, the deck would still be standing.

- R.