The deck project is moving along its just moving slowly. Lol

It's possible that I'm over analyzing the beam and that the bubble doesn't need to be dead center of the level.... (Or am I wrong) lol

Quick question for you.
My deck is 27x16 and I have 2 beams.
Both are double 2x12. I have 5 6x6 for each beam.

When I notched out the 6x6 and hold a level on the notches. It's dead on level.


I've now put one 2x12 up for the beam and will nail the other into it once it's in the air.

My question is can I use shims where the beam is being spliced and connected? One board is close to 1/4" lower. I plan on using composite shims to make up the differences in the beam.

Can a shim handle that kind of weight?

Should I try to get a joist bender and bend the beam to the posts?

Or just let it go and fix the issues with shims and planing with the joists and not the beam?

I've attached photos. One of the beams everything lined up. The other one is where I have the issue.

 

Pictures.
Beam with shim

And other beam without need for shims.

 

Welcome to the forums!
I'm a painter, not a carpenter but if it was me - I'd mark and cut the bottom edge of the taller joist.

 

Composite/plastic shims are fine, they won't crush.

 

Thank you!!
In case anyone else has a similar issue.
People also suggested stainless steel washers

 

Composite/plastic shims are fine, they won't crush.

Well, would you build your house and use plastic to hold it up?

Your beams are just a little different in height, somewhat normal, use galvanized metal plates as spacers, they are available at companies that sell construction supplies.

 

The two 1/2" bolts he puts through each beam will be holding the weight... the shim basically holds it there temporarily until its bolted. So I really doubt there will be much weight on it after its bolted. But point taken.