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How to Nail a Deck Beam
When securing 2 or more dimensional wood boards together to form a beam you will need to use the proper number and size nails to create a solid member. A 2x10 Beam should use a minimum of (4) - 3” nails fastened in a vertical pattern from both sides of the beam every 16” on center. Be on the safe side when in doubt and use extra nails, having too few nails can result in diminished holding strength that might allow the beam to separate. Always verify that you are using nails that are compatible with pressure treated lumber because some nails will corrode or dissolve with exposure to the chemicals found within treated wood.
SaveIt is easier to combine the boards on the ground before setting the beam.
Try to use very straight and dry wood boards and build the beam on a flat surface or on top of saw horses to keep the corners aligned. When working with an extraordinarily heavy beam you may want to build it in sections to make lifting easier. If this is the case make sure the splices will fall over the top of support posts. You may also want to mark the beam with a construction pencil to indicate the locations of the joists to make your job easier once the beam is raised.
Make sure the tops of the boards are flush. Nail them at an angle so the point of the nails won't go through the beam. Reverse the angle of the nails at the ends of the beam to lock it into place for strength. Start at about 4" from the ends of the beam. Nail both sides of the beam. Do not use screws.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Access to Hot Tub Decks
How will you access the controls of your hot tub on your deck? Make sure you have space to open and operate control panels when designing your deck.
How to Splice a Deck Beam Over a Support Post
Follow our step by step tutorial for splicing a deck beam over a support post. Never split a beam in the center of a span.
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.
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
Create a free account and get instant & exclusive access to all that Decks.com has to offer:
|
1,000+ How-To articles |
|
80+ Free Deck Plans |
|
Deck Planning Calculators |
|
Free & Simple Deck Design Tool |
How to Nail a Deck Beam
When securing 2 or more dimensional wood boards together to form a beam you will need to use the proper number and size nails to create a solid member. A 2x10 Beam should use a minimum of (4) - 3” nails fastened in a vertical pattern from both sides of the beam every 16” on center. Be on the safe side when in doubt and use extra nails, having too few nails can result in diminished holding strength that might allow the beam to separate. Always verify that you are using nails that are compatible with pressure treated lumber because some nails will corrode or dissolve with exposure to the chemicals found within treated wood.
SaveIt is easier to combine the boards on the ground before setting the beam.
Try to use very straight and dry wood boards and build the beam on a flat surface or on top of saw horses to keep the corners aligned. When working with an extraordinarily heavy beam you may want to build it in sections to make lifting easier. If this is the case make sure the splices will fall over the top of support posts. You may also want to mark the beam with a construction pencil to indicate the locations of the joists to make your job easier once the beam is raised.
Make sure the tops of the boards are flush. Nail them at an angle so the point of the nails won't go through the beam. Reverse the angle of the nails at the ends of the beam to lock it into place for strength. Start at about 4" from the ends of the beam. Nail both sides of the beam. Do not use screws.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Extending Your Current Deck
Learn about the pros and cons of adding onto your existing deck. First, make sure your existing deck frame and footings can support additional loads.
How to Splice a Deck Beam Over a Support Post
Follow our step by step tutorial for splicing a deck beam over a support post. Never split a beam in the center of a span.
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 Time to Build a Deck
People often wonder when the best time to build a deck is. Learn why building a deck in winter or fall might be your best bet.
Installing 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