Just coming to the end of my two story addition. What does remain of the project is a deck 6 or 8 ft out and 19 foot across. The 19 foot side against the house will of course be supported by a ledger attached to the building.

We wish to have the view from under the deck unobstructed as possible. This leads to want a span of approximately 15 feet supported with a column near each end. The remaining 4 feet of the 19 will be for a stairway leading to the ground level.

What size and how many beams would we have to (bolt) tie together to get this kind of support. Are there glued beams that might be less expensive and how would they fair in the outside weather?

Any other ideas or directions will be appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your time.

 

What is drawn on your building permit and plans? Are you changing something? Be safe, G

 

cpergantis,

As is GBR in WA, I'm assuming that this deck is shown on the approved plans for your addition. If so, follow that.

If this deck is NOT on your plans, you've got some leg work to do. Start at your local bldg. dept.

You need to know the snow and wind loads that apply as well as the seismic zone that you're in. Spanning 15' can be done with a glulam or microlam beam, and they are available as a PT unit.The size will depend on whatever loads you have to build the deck to. It's not going to be some beam that you fabricate out of dimensional lumber. Post and footing size are determined by the same thing. Footing depth will be based on any frost level that you may have to deal with.