How to Connect a Notched Wood Post to a Beam
Using a notched post and beam connection will lock the beam in place, secure it from rotating and resist wind uplift. Notching a post does not weaken the structural integrity of the wood support post because the load for the deck is transferred down through the post to the footings. The upright notched section of the post acts stabilizes the beam. Most deck builders use a reciprocating saw to cut an L shaped seat in the top of the post large enough to hold the beam. Another building method to consider if you don’t have a reciprocating saw involves using circular saw to score the top of the post to remove the weakened sections with a chisel. A 2-2x10 beam will require a notch 3” wide by 9-1/4 inches tall. To hold the beam in place you will then need to predrill and run two ½” threaded carriage bolts through the beam and the top of the notch.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Building a Balcony Deck
Learn information about balcony decks that use cantilevered joists that attach to house floor truss systems.
Deck Joist Cantilever & Overhang Rules
Learn what factors determine the maximum joist cantilever overhang that is allowed.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
How to Demolish & Remove a Deck
At some point, it might become necessary to remove an old deck, due to age or condition. Learn more about what's involved in a deck demolition and removal project.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Why is Joist Protection so Important for Your Deck?
If you’ve ever seen a piece of wood left out in the weather for any period of time, you know what happens: decay. Whether through wet rot, insect damage, or mildew, the fibers begin to break down.
How to Install Deck Post Wraps and Sleeves
Learn how to install trim or post sleeves over your pressure-treated support posts for a cleaner finish and to protect the material from checking.
Deck Joist Water Protection
Learn about a technique used by many pro builders for wrapping deck framing lumber with a waterproof barrier to prevent corrosion and rot.
How to Demolish & Remove a Deck
At some point, it might become necessary to remove an old deck, due to age or condition. Learn more about what's involved in a deck demolition and removal project.
Introduction to Decking
Spacing between deck boards provides several critical functions, such as drainage & drying. Learn how to space and stagger deck boards at Decks.com.
How to Install Composite Decking
Learn about how to install composite decking. Topics include expansion and contraction issues and hidden fastener systems.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights