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How to Use Steel Metal Deck Support Posts and Columns
Round steel structural columns with base plates welded to the top and bottom are another option. The most cost effective steel post is 4.5” diameter with 1/8” thick walls. Many of these are part of an assembly for a decorative columns. Steel is rarely used in residential deck construction because it is expensive, not readily available and more complicated to install. If you do choose to use steel be sure to check it out with your building inspections department and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
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How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Engineered Deck Beam
Use treated engineered deck beams for long spans with fewer posts and footings. Engineered beams can be designed and specially ordered from your lumberyard.
Understanding Point Loads and Beam-to-Beam Framing
Learn why it is important to install your deck beam to beam connections over a support post and footing.
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.
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.
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 Use Steel Metal Deck Support Posts and Columns
Round steel structural columns with base plates welded to the top and bottom are another option. The most cost effective steel post is 4.5” diameter with 1/8” thick walls. Many of these are part of an assembly for a decorative columns. Steel is rarely used in residential deck construction because it is expensive, not readily available and more complicated to install. If you do choose to use steel be sure to check it out with your building inspections department and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
SaveHow to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
How to Build a Freestanding Deck
You may need to build a freestanding deck if you can't attach a ledger board to the house. Learn how to build a self-supporting deck.
Engineered Deck Beam
Use treated engineered deck beams for long spans with fewer posts and footings. Engineered beams can be designed and specially ordered from your lumberyard.
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.
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.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
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