When it comes to constructing a deck, one of the most important factors to consider is the spacing of the deck posts. The two most common sizes used for deck posts are 4x4 and 6x6. When using 4x4 posts, they should be placed no more than 6 feet apart, and when using 6x6 posts, no more than 8 feet apart. This is because the railing system will not have adequate support if the posts are too far apart.
To ensure that the platform remains level, it is important to mark the location of each post on the platform's perimeter. In general, posts should not be more than 8 feet apart. Some builders place them every 4 feet to get a completely rigid frame. The maximum distance between deck posts is about 15 feet, and posts require thicker wood the longer the span. The International Residential Code requires deck railings for any deck that is more than 30 inches above the ground.
Most builders rely on 4-inch by 4-inch wood for good, solid railing material. The code requires that wooden railings be spaced 6 feet or less apart on the flat part of the platform. The ideal space between platform posts is 8 feet or less. The distance between the platform support posts depends on the type of wood used and the size of the beam and beam. This is achieved by transferring the shape and dimensions of the platform plane at scale to the full-size construction area.
Here in GA, you can use the AWC prescriptive deck guide or the GA's prescriptive amendment deck guide. If you are building a platform that cantilevered over the edge of the platform or the initial posts, the same calculation should be done when considering a single beam hanging over a post. Although it may appear stable, there are specific points on the roof that are deformed, causing people to stumble when they walk on it for the first time. We have seen how entire sides of houses are raised by roofs built in cantilevered ceilings longer than the entire length of the roof. If you are constructing a platform that requires a wingspan of more than 15 feet, you should consider folding the posts on both sides of the platform where the wingspan will be. This creates a solid floor for the platform and prevents winds and other forces from easily deforming its overall shape.
While there are thousands of design options and at least hundreds of materials to choose from, where you place your deck posts will remain constant depending on its size. This ensures that your deck is fully supported and that any space below it can be used as storage or even as another space for entertaining. The maximum space for 4x4x6 platform posts should be 6 feet in center, while maximum space for 6x6 foot platform posts should be 8 feet in center. Decks can also be constructed with composite wood, plastic decking, imported hardwood and aluminum, which is resistant to mildew and is gaining popularity among deck designers.
