Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Planning new deck project ..first question

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Digitalden
10-06-07, 12:11 PM
Before I get into too much detail let me ask this first question. I will be replacing my 12 x 12 deck in a few weeks with a 14 x 20 deck. The deck will be attached to the house on two sides ( the house is L shaped there ) . It will be attached to the house the entire 20' and 14' sides.

14Ft
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-------------------- 20Ft
House

Does it matter which way the beams run. Should they run the 20' length ( split at 8' and 12' with the joint on the 4x6 post) then the joist run the full 14 'length or should the beams run the 14' length with no split and run the joist the 20ft length split at' 8 and 12'. Im trying to avoid hunting down 20' lumber.

Thanks for any suggestions you have.

Rob

dooer
10-06-07, 04:03 PM
That would of course depend upon which way you want the decking to run. The decking usually runs parallel to the beams.

As far as I know, there is no problem getting 20' lumber.

Why are you splitting things to 8' and 12' vs. 10' and 10'?
Digitalden
10-06-07, 04:10 PM
It was just a number I picked for example. I might have to go 6 and 14. It just depends on where my supports will be. I want the beams to join on the 4x6 support. So with these measurements does it matter which way the beams run? My plan right now is to run the beams down the 20' length and the joist the 14' length. My dad was asking why not run it the other way. I told him I don't know :) Does it really matter?

Rob