Commonly used joist sizes are 2-by-6, 2-by-8 and 2-by-10. For example, when you space joists 16″ apart — which is standard for residential decks — a deck spanning 9 1/2′ would require 2-by-6 joists, a 13′ deck would need 2-by-8 joists and a 16′ deck calls for 2-by-10 joists.
Should I use deck boards or 2x6?
2x6 is thicker and is stronger, but is also more expensive. Spacing between deck boards provide a few critical functions. The primary function is to drain water from the deck. Gaps that are narrow (1/8”), can catch debris, specifically on top of the joists, and can be difficult to clean out.
Can I use 2x6 as deck joist?
You can use 2×6 as deck joists if the deck is low enough to the ground as not to require guard railing. When using S-P-F 2×6 deck joists, the span must not be greater than 9'0″ (2.73m) with joists at 16″ o.c. (400mm), and 9'10” (3.01m)with spacing at 12″ (300mm).
Can I use 2x8 for deck joists?
2x8 for joists will be fine, with 16" OC. Should use 2x10 for beams but 2x8 will be fine as well. If you are worried you can triple the 2x8 for the beams but double will be sufficient. You should put the beams at 7 and 14 feet out from the house, with the piers you should do 3 per beam with spacing of 1, 7, 13.15 Sept 2009
Should a deck be built with 2x6 or 2x8?
For upper-level decks, 2x10 is recommended as the minimum size to use for strong guard post connections. 2x6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards. Most decking is not strong enough to support longer spans than 16".
How far can a 2x8 deck board span?
A rule of thumb is 1.5 times a joist's depth but in feet when spaced at 16” centers. In general, a 2×8 will span 1.5 x 8, so 12-feet.
What size boards are used for deck flooring?
For the deck surface, you can use 2x4s, 2x6s, or 5/4x6s. The 5/4 decking (pronounced "five-quarter"), available in cedar and pressure-treated fir, is 1 inch thick and 5-1/2 inches wide with rounded edges that make for a splinter-free surface.30 Apr 2021
Is it OK to use 2x6 for deck joists?
2x6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards. Most decking is not strong enough to support longer spans than 16". Some builders reduce joist spacing to 12" on center to strengthen the deck frame or to increase maximum allowable joist spans.
Should deck joists be 2x6 or 2x8?
That's a model deck code which includes joist span tables. If there is to be a railing, you need the joists to be at least 2x8s. 2x6s don't have the depth needed to resist the leverage that can be placed on a railing post bolted to them.
How far can you span a 2x6 deck joist?
Decking made of 2x4s or 2x6s can span up to 24 inches. If you will run decking at an angle, you might need to put the joists closer together.22 Jun 2020
How thick should joists be on a deck?
Decking Type Actual Thickness (inches) Suggested On Center Joist Spacing (inches)
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Tropical Hardwoods 1x 13/16” 16”
Thermally-Modified 5/4 1” 16”
Pressure Treated Pine 5/4 1” 16”
Western Red Cedar 5/4 1” 16”