When it comes to deck construction, ensuring that your guardrails are both functional and safe is paramount. Often overlooked, the connection of railing posts, pickets, and balusters plays a crucial role in the overall safety and durability of the deck. This blog post will explore some of the essential aspects of deck guardrail construction, focusing on the importance of proper connections, minimum geometry dimensions, and code-compliant solutions.
Author: Rachel Holland
Rachel Holland is an Engineering Manager for Simpson Strong-Tie offering her expertise to both the end user and specifiers. She joined Simpson Strong-Tie in 2011 as a Branch Engineer in the Stockton facility supporting the Northwest US region and then in 2015 she began her R&D career. In 2021 Rachel joined the Riverside team supporting the Southwest US region. She represents Simpson Strong-Tie as a deck expert, educating how to properly build code compliant decks. Rachel has a bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from Cal Poly SLO, an MBA, and is a California-licensed Professional Engineer.
Decks Done Right Series — Real Solutions for Safer, Stronger Decks: Joists, Joist Connections, Beams, and Lateral Requirements
Deck Beams and Joists
Deck beams and joists need to be sized, spaced, and supported properly to support the loads that they are subjected to. The tables in 2021 IRC R507.5 list maximum beam spans for the different wood species members based on various ground snow loads. Table R507.6 helps to determine the maximum joist span, considering live load, wood species, joist spacing, joist size, and whether there’s a cantilever or not. Cantilevers are included but are maxed out at L/4. Joist spacing should be no more than 16″ o/c for decking that runs perpendicular to joists and no more than 12″ o.c. if the decking runs diagonal to them. DCA 6, Table 2 is the comparable section that addresses maximum joist spans and overhangs. These member sizes and spans are developed using established code minimum distributed loads of 40 psf live and 10 psf dead.
Decks Done Right Series — Real Solutions for Safer, Stronger Decks
The ledger is a crucial component in deck construction, serving as the wood member that attaches the entire deck to the house. Its proper installation is vital, as an improperly installed ledger is one of the most common causes of deck failure. This failure can result from inadequate or improper fastening to the supporting structure or from a failure to correctly flash the installation to prevent rot. Both issues can worsen over time, seriously compromising the integrity of a deck.
Building Safer Decks: Footings, Posts, and Post-to-Beam Connections
This is the second in a six-part blog series in which we discuss, from the ground up, how to build a code-compliant deck. Building a safe, sturdy deck involves much more than selecting the right materials and a stylish design. To ensure a deck can handle the loads placed upon it, a strong foundation is essential and starts with properly designed and installed footings, posts, and post-to-beam connections. Footings are the foundation of the deck, providing support to the posts, which, in turn, support the beams and the rest of the structure. Properly installed footings prevent settling or shifting that could jeopardize the deck’s stability. Post-to-beam connections are particularly crucial, as they bear the weight of the deck and distribute it to the posts. These connections should be reinforced with metal connectors to ensure they can handle the load. Now let’s get more into the specifics.
Building Safer Decks: Essential Tips for Code Compliance and Structural Integrity
Decks are a beloved feature of many homes, offering a space for relaxation, social gatherings, and a connection to the outdoors. However, despite their popularity, decks can also pose serious safety risks if not properly designed, built, and maintained. According to experts, decks cause more injuries and fatalities than any other part of the home’s structure — a shocking statistic that highlights the importance of ensuring your deck is safe, secure, and compliant with local building codes. In this article, the first in a six-part series, we’ll explore key insights into building stronger, safer decks, drawing on the thinking behind industry standards and guidelines.
30 Years After Northridge: Lessons, Progress, and Community Resilience
Rachel Holland, a Simpson Strong-Tie engineer, reflects on the profound impact of the Northridge earthquake in Southern California on January 17, 1994. Living just 8 miles from the epicenter, the earthquake shaped her perspective on natural disasters and inspired her journey into engineering. In an interview, she shares her vivid memories of the chaos, destruction, and challenges faced during the aftermath. Hear how this seismic event played a pivotal role in shaping Rachel’s career and influencing her commitment to structural engineering.
Solving the Puzzles Presented by “As Built” Conditions
As civil and structural engineers, we know all too well that what is on the plans doesn’t always translate exactly as intended in the field. Part of what keeps our jobs interesting is having to solve problems that arise with “as built” conditions that are not always easy to change. It can feel like a complex puzzle trying to figure out what is possible when considering all aspects, including demand loads, load transfer, construction sequence, and also cost.
Outdoor Accents: Timeless Design Meets Tested Strength
Like everyone else in the world, I’ve been spending more time at home these past few months. More than I ever have before. During this time, I’ve found myself thinking about all the home improvement projects that would make our outdoor space more enjoyable. It’s something that in the extreme busyness of our “normal” life, I didn’t have a lot of time for. But being home 24/7 with two energetic and loud little boys has meant a lot of outside time. As a California native, I am grateful to be able to enjoy beautiful outdoor weather most of the year. I love being outside with my family, hanging out in the backyard, escaping all the tempting electronic devices that are constantly pulling us in. And now, more than ever, while sheltering –in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m so thankful for a backyard that we can enjoy. So, topping my backyard home improvement project list: adding a shade structure, like a pergola or pavilion.
Attaching a Deck Ledger to a Home Through Brick or Masonry Veneer — the BVLZ Solution
Brick or masonry veneer has traditionally posed a problem to homeowners and contractors seeking to attach a deck to a home without removing large portions of the veneer or siding. No longer is that the case, thanks to the innovative BVLZ brick veneer ledger connector from Simpson Strong-Tie. In this post, Rachel Holland, P.E., an R&D structural engineer at Simpson Strong-Tie, explains the research and insights that went into testing and developing this revolutionary connector.
Continue Reading
Questions Answered: CSHP High-Performance Coiled Strap
We recently hosted an interactive webinar in which our new high-performance coiled strap’s product manager, Thom Murphy, and I discussed how an innovative embossment is a game changer for coiled strap, making it easier and faster to install with a standard framing nailer. During the one-hour webinar, we reviewed the benefits of a continuous load path as well as key uses for coiled straps. We also related what was involved in the design and testing of the embossment. If you missed the conversation, you can still watch the on-demand webinar and earn PDH and CEU credits here.
Continue Reading