Master Bedroom Deck Project #2

Part 2, Posts, Beam and Frame.

January 23, 2016

First up was placing the 6"x6" posts.

This was odd because unlike every other piece of dimensional lumber, these were actually the exact size, not 1/2" smaller.  Not a big deal, except that the Simpson brackets that attach them to the concrete pads and that will attach the beam don't fit.

No biggy, I pulled out the router and a top bearing mortising bit, attached an MDF guide to the posts and removed enough wood so that everything will fit.

Removed approx. 1/4" on each side of the post so it would fit in the bracket.

Another angle of the mortise for the bracket.

MDF being used as a guide and spacer for the router bit.

Once they were able to fit in the brackets we measured out from the bottom of the ledger and then down 11.5" to accommodate the 3 2"x12"x16' boards we were using for the beam.  Then both posts were cut to size with the circular saw.

Cutting the beams required 4 passes with the circular saw and then a flush cut hand saw to finish it.

Once that was complete the posts were bolted into place.

Andrew securing the post to the bracket.

Andrew securing the post to the bracket.

Then the guides and router were used to get the upper brackets to fit and the 3 2"x12" boards were placed on top.

Beam in place.  The 3 boards are attached from the outside boards using 3" coated wood screws every 16" alternating top and bottom.

2"x8"x8' pressure treated joists were attached to the ledger using double shear joist hangers and 16d nails.  All hardware used is hot dipped galvanized or coated and approved for use in the pressure treated lumber.

Verifying the joists are going to be level.

Joists are all secured to the beam with hurricane ties and 10d nails.

The first few joists in place.

Finally the rim joist was attached to the end of the ledgers with #10x3" coated screws, 3 into each joist.