Does A Deck Need Beams? (Solved)
If you’re planning to build a deck or curious about its structure, you might be asking yourself, “Do I really need beams?”
It’s a very common question among homeowners and DIYers.
A deck needs beams. They’re pretty important. Beams are basically like the backbone of your deck, supporting the joists that hold up your decking boards.
In this post, I’ll go over 5 reasons why a deck needs beams. I’ll also talk a bit about if it’s possible to build a deck without them.
Does A Deck Need Beams?
Yes, decks usually need beams for proper support.
Beams are horizontal pieces that run perpendicular to the joists. They give the joists a solid foundation, which then hold up the decking boards.
Beams help spread the deck’s weight evenly to the posts or footings and keep everything stable.
Also Read: Double rim joist on deck
But there are a few exceptions.
If you’re building a really tiny deck, like maybe 88 x 44 inches, you might be able to get away without beams. But your joists must be well-supported by ledgers and posts.
I’ll talk more about this in a minute.
Why Decks Need Beams
Here are 5 big reasons why a deck needs beams:
#1 Weight Distribution
Beams are super important because they spread out the weight of your deck.
They make sure all that weight isn’t just pushing down on one spot, which could be a recipe for disaster. Instead, beams distribute the load evenly across the support structure.
This is crucial because it stops your deck from sagging or, worst case, collapsing.
By spreading the load around, beams help your deck stay strong and safe for a long time.
#2 Support Larger Spans
Want a big, open deck that feels like an extension of your living room?
Beams make that possible.
Without them, you’d need to put support posts really close together, which would limit how big your deck could be and might make it feel more like a cage than an open space.
Beams let you spread those posts out more.
You can have a wider, more open space that fits your needs better. This means more room for that outdoor sectional, the grill, and maybe even a space for yoga or stargazing.
Also Read: Benefits of Composite Decking
#3 Structural Support
Think of beams as the backbone of your deck.
They provide a solid base for the joists, which then support your decking boards. This whole setup makes sure your deck is strong and doesn’t move around when you walk on it.
Beams take the weight from the joists and send it down to the posts and into the ground.
This is super important for making sure your deck can handle people walking on it, furniture, and whatever the weather throws at it.
#4 Code Compliance
Building codes often require beams for decks over a certain size. These rules are there to keep everyone safe and make sure decks are built to handle the weight and weather they’ll face.
So, you’re not just making your deck safer, you’re also making sure it meets local rules.
This is important for passing inspections and avoiding any legal headaches down the road.
Plus, code-compliant decks are typically safer and more durable, which means less maintenance and fewer worries for you in the long run.
#5 More Designs
Beams give you more options when you’re designing your deck. You can set them up in different ways to make all sorts of deck shapes and styles.
This flexibility lets you create custom deck layouts that look great with your house and give you the outdoor space you want.
Also check out our Deck Design services if you are in Richmond, VA.
Maybe you want a multi-level deck, or one with a unique shape to fit around a tree or garden feature. Beams make these designs possible.
They let you make cantilevers, dramatic overhangs, and other awesome architectural features.
Can I Build A Deck Without Beams?
It is possible to build a deck without beams, but it takes careful planning and the right conditions.
One way is to use engineered systems with materials designed for longer spans, like LVL or PSL. These can stretch up to 18 feet without needing support posts in the middle.
But if you go this route, you’ll need to do some precise engineering calculations to make sure everything’s safe and up to code.
Another option is a floating deck. These sit on concrete blocks or piers instead of traditional footings and beams. This type of deck works well for smaller areas, up to about 200 square feet, and when it’s not too high off the ground.
If your deck is right at ground level, you might be able to build it without beams by resting the joists directly on precast concrete pier blocks or supporting them entirely by the ground.
Wrapping Up
So, to sum it all up,a deck does need beams.
They are usually a key part of deck construction. They provide crucial support, let you build bigger decks, make sure the weight is spread out evenly, and give you more design options.
FAQs
Does A Deck Need Beams Or Joists?
A deck needs both beams and joists for structural support.
Ground Level Deck Without Beams?
It is possible to construct a ground-level deck without beams if the deck is small,
lightweight, and the joists are adequately supported by posts or footings. But it’s generally not recommended.
