Loading

Determining Deck Beam Height

In order to determine the correct height for your beam you should first install your ledger board and support posts.  Next you will run a string from the top of the ledger board to the support post with a level and mark the position for the top of the beam.  You will then need to subtract the thickness of the beam and post beam connector hardware.  Finally you should adjust your beam height by factoring in a 1/4" for every 8' pitch to slope away from the house for drainage.  Mark this height with a chalk line and cut your post for the correct beam height.


Popular Framing Articles
Deck Support Columns

How to Decorate Deck Support Columns

Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.

Deck Framing

Building a Deck Around a Tree

Learn how to build a deck around a tree to allow the tree to grow and not damage its root system while digging footings.

Deck Support Columns

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.

Next Step: Decking Articles
Decking Installation

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.

Decking Installation

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.

Decking Installation

Best Hidden Fasteners for Decking

Hidden fasteners create a clean deck surface and can be used with composite, wood and other materials. Learn about hidden deck fasteners at Decks.com.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Deck Support Beams

Determining Deck Beam Height

In order to determine the correct height for your beam you should first install your ledger board and support posts.  Next you will run a string from the top of the ledger board to the support post with a level and mark the position for the top of the beam.  You will then need to subtract the thickness of the beam and post beam connector hardware.  Finally you should adjust your beam height by factoring in a 1/4" for every 8' pitch to slope away from the house for drainage.  Mark this height with a chalk line and cut your post for the correct beam height.


Popular Framing Articles
Deck Support Columns

How to Decorate Deck Support Columns

Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.

Deck Framing

Building a Balcony Deck

Learn information about balcony decks that use cantilevered joists that attach to house floor truss systems.

Deck Framing

How to Build a Multi-Level Deck

Multi-level decks are very popular. Learn how to build a deck that steps up or down using shared posts and footing connections.

Next Step: Decking Articles
Decking Installation

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.

Decking Installation

Tile decking

Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.

Decking Installation

Best Hidden Fasteners for Decking

Hidden fasteners create a clean deck surface and can be used with composite, wood and other materials. Learn about hidden deck fasteners at Decks.com.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic