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Stokerace
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# Posted: 31 Dec 2024 05:14pm
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My single storey cabin build will have exposed post and beam structure. The posts will be spaced 48" OC. A general contractor helping me suggested 5x3 posts instead of 4x4, for a better look. The mill nearby will do any size I request.
So, now that the dimensions of the posts is up for discussion, I am interested to know what guidelines people refer to when determining post and beam sizes relative to the span.
At present I am thinking of having the posts milled at full 3"x6" to match the look of the 6x6 corner posts.
Any tips or known guidelines on this would be appreciated.
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gcrank1
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# Posted: 31 Dec 2024 05:43pm
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All I can say is on my 1st build in '83 I repurposed 6x6 barn beams using the 48"oc and its is still strong and standing straight (more than I can say for me).
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ICC
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# Posted: 31 Dec 2024 06:28pm
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Quoting: Stokerace what guidelines people refer to when determining post and beam sizes relative to the span.
There is no simple answer. The expected loads to be carried by the posts and the connecting beams must be known. Is there a chance of snow? How much, worst case, not average. This is the sort of thing engineers get paid to do.
I believe you will get assorted guesses here. There are some calculators available online at The Forestry Forum. Scroll down that page a little. With some research and reading you may be able to obtain good information. There are beam calculators and column calculators. Posts are columns.
4x4's are often too small for much structural work. Remember when columns/posts have vertical downward loads applied there is a tendency for the posts to bend or curve and those forces must be restrained.
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