Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - composite post question

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hondacr250
05-03-08, 06:27 PM
I'm going to build a deck and was wondering if I can use a 6x6 composite post for the post and beam post. Some say it is not made for structrial posting is this so or not .
need to know asap please Thanks

mitch17
05-04-08, 08:05 AM
Composite materials are not structural. Most manufacturers have trim you put around PT wood to make it look like the composite is being used.
hondacr250
05-04-08, 09:23 AM
Thanks for the information Mitch

lefty
05-04-08, 01:46 PM
hondacr250,

There are TWO reasons you can't use a composite 6X6 for your posts to support the beam.

The first, like Mitch17 said, composites can not be used as a structural member.

The second -- they don't exist!! There are solid 4X4 newel posts (Trex) and there are sleeves that slip over a wood 4X4 -- pretty much everybody else. But nobody makes a 6X6.
dgbehrends
05-04-08, 09:12 PM
I was at Menards a couple of days ago and I saw a 6'x6' composite post. I can't remember the brand of the composite, (wasn't Trex) but I think it was for structural building. If you can't find it at your local store, let me know and I will take more notes next time I am at my store.