Using the Simpson deck builder software, it says my deck must be no taller than 6'4" above ground. No matter what I do I can't get to go higher. I need it 7'. Can I use taller piers and measure from the top of the pier instead of the ground?
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Deck height.
- Thread starter genius
- Start date
TheCommish
SAWHORSE
what are you using for posts, 4x4 or 6x6
That program limits the height to keep the design simple. Higher decks need additional bracing. Have you reviewed this?
6X6.
That guide is helpful.
POST REQUIREMENTS
"All deck post sizes shall be 6x6 (nominal) or larger, and
the maximum height shall be in accordance with Table 4
and measured from grade or top of foundation,
whichever is highest, to the underside of the beam."
By foundation I assume they mean piers. I've never seen a limit to the height of the piers.
Sorry, handy homeowner.
That guide is helpful.
POST REQUIREMENTS
"All deck post sizes shall be 6x6 (nominal) or larger, and
the maximum height shall be in accordance with Table 4
and measured from grade or top of foundation,
whichever is highest, to the underside of the beam."
By foundation I assume they mean piers. I've never seen a limit to the height of the piers.
Sorry, handy homeowner.
fatboy
Administrator
Here is a easy to use guide, will reflect what is in the AWC document has, just simplified.
fatboy
Administrator
That'll kick you into a engineered solution.
That’s a nice guide. I have a friend in montgomery county md (DC suburb) and the county has adopted the awc guide almost verbatim.
bill1952
SAWHORSE
Not an area of code I usually study, but seems though I read the 2024 IRC requires more than just ledgers and wood closer than 6" to ground to be decay resistant. Is that correct? I wonder when theses AWC guides will be updated.
Inspector Gadget
Registered User
Lots of folks around here (Canada) tell me that they can get away with 4x4 posts until one of four feet or six feet or some such. I guess there's American Codes that have language to that effect?
Our codes say 6x6 period. I am thinking some of our DIY and Chuck with a Truck builders watch 'murican TV shows ....
Our codes say 6x6 period. I am thinking some of our DIY and Chuck with a Truck builders watch 'murican TV shows ....
fatboy
Administrator
Colorado Chapter has many guides available for our jurisdiction, they eventually get translated into spanish also.
Building Guides | CCICC – Colorado Chapter of the International Code Council
2021 Basement Garage Decks Roof Addition Patio Cover Enclosing a Patio Pole Barn Single Family Ramps 2021 Espanol ( under construction) Sótano Garaje Cubierta Azotea Adición Cubierta del patio/
coloradochaptericc.org