The Weight A Fence Post Can Hold
| Shear Weight Capacity (PSI, Pounds Per S ... | Size of Post (in x in) | Total Weight Capacity For One Post (Lbs) | |
| Cedar Wood | 850 | 4×4 | 9,682 |
| Cedar Wood | 850 | 6×6 | 23,876 |
| Steel | 40,000 | 3×3 | 360,000 |
| Vinyl | 6,600 | 5×5 | 165,000 |
How much weight can a 6x6 post support?
The capacity of a 12' tall 6x6 post varies greatly as described above. For maximum design load you should be safe using 400 psi, that's about 12,000 lbs. But you need to add up the loads based on values that go with your allowable stress.
What is the difference between a 4×4 and 6×6 post?
While a 4×4 under 5-feet will do the same job essentially as a 6×6, the more solid timber resists bending and twisting much better. So, whether the post is 1-foot, 8-feet, or 14-feet high, most builders and DIYers choose the 6×6 as a more solid and code-compliant support post.
Can a 6×6 post be used as a railing post?
The 4×4 should not be notched to the deck. A 6×6 will work as a railing post too but is over-kill unless there are other aesthetic or structural reasons for the heavier posts. The 6×6 is larger and checks and cracks will be more visible, however, it may not twist or bend like a 4×4.
What are 6×6 deck posts used for?
6×6 deck posts offer a solid, stable base for most decks. They are commonly secured at or above ground level with a metal bracket to a footing, pier, or deck block, and to the beam at the other end to prevent twisting.
Should you use 4x4 or 6x6 deck posts?
4x4 post will be fine. I have built many decks for new homes with them. 6x6 is more sturdy of course and will not twist as easy, but for structure purposes, 4x4 will be fine.Aug 6, 2011
How far apart should 6x6 deck posts be?
8 feetFor Building a Deck Railing, Deck Frame, or Fence The maximum spacing of 4x4 deck posts should be 6 feet on center, while the maximum spacing of 6x6 deck posts should be 8 feet on center.Jul 15, 2019
Can a 6X6 span 10 feet?
To answer you question, no a 6X6 will not carry that span, even if you have only a roof to support. The strength is in the height of the beam, not so much for the width.Oct 13, 2016
How long are 6X6 posts?
22-ftProduct SpecificationsSize & Dimension6-inch x 6-inchLength22-ftSize & Dimension.15Wood TreatmentTreatedWood SpecieYellow Pine3 more rows
How high is a 6x6 post?
While a 4×4 under 5-feet will do the same job essentially as a 6×6, the more solid timber resists bending and twisting much better. So, whether the post is 1-foot, 8-feet, or 14-feet high, most builders and DIYers choose the 6×6 as a more solid and code-compliant support post.
What size deck post should I use?
Deck posts must be a minimum of 4×4 according to the IRC but many jurisdictions require a 6×6 post as a standard. To avoid code violations, many deck builders choose the 6×6 even if the 4×4 is acceptable.
What is a 4x4 deck post?
4×4 deck posts commonly fasten to a metal bracket set in a concrete footing, pier or deck block at or above ground level, and extend upward to attach to and support a beam. A 4×4 post is actually 3-1/2”x 3-1/2”, which does impact its structural strength. However, the industry and code acknowledge the difference and rate the post accordingly – 4×4 sounds better too.
How many areas does a center post have?
A center post carries 1/4 of four areas based on joist and beam span; so essentially, its Tributary Area is defined by the joist span multiplied by the beam span. A corner post supports a 1/4 of the area defined by the joist and beam span, and an edge post supports 1/4 of two areas.
What is a 6x6 deck?
6×6 deck posts offer a solid, stable base for most decks. They are commonly secured at or above ground level with a metal bracket to a footing, pier, or deck block, and to the beam at the other end to prevent twisting.
What is the difference between a deck support post and an eccentric support post?
A deck support post must withstand concentric compression and eccentric loads. Concentric compression forces are vertical or axial and pass through the axis of the post – top to bottom. Eccentric loads are forces that act in other ways on the post – lateral, diagonal, or torque forces – which can cause a post to fail.
Where are deck support posts placed?
Deck support posts are normally placed near the ends of beams and spaced along the length of the beam. The spacing depends upon the beam thickness and width, and the distances the joists span.
