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.
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 Install Deck Girder, Cantilever or Drop Beams
Learn about the pros and cons of installing a cantilever, girder or drop beam to support your deck joists. This method allows for a notched post-to-beam connection.
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.
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.
Dos & Don'ts for Homeowners to Consider When Building a Deck
Your dream deck can take whatever shape you like. The trick is making it fit your budget and site conditions. While the deck doesn’t have to be built as a rectangle, there could be good reasons for doing just that.
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
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.
How to Build a Ground Level Deck
Adding a ground level or floating deck to your home may be the perfect addition to your outdoor space. Learn how to build a ground level deck at Decks.com.
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 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.
10 Common Deck Building Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Building a deck can be a complicated process. Learn how to avoid falling into common deck building pitfalls with tips and advice from the experts at Decks.com.
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