There’s always a bunch of threads about drilling and notching beams and other horizontal members, but what about the vertical ones?
The typical structural details for our plans address the allowed drilling for studs, but not for structural posts. In my particular situation, we have a couple 4 X 8 posts supporting a 6 X 16 PSL beam and, beacuse of the site condition, the only feasible way to get a wire run to an outlet is to drill though the post. The drilling would be a 5/8″ diam through the 8 inch width.
Is this OK?
Thanks!
Replies
Greetings Rockford, is the pistol still in the cookiejar?
This post, in response to your question, will bump the thread through the 'recent discussion' listing again which will increase it's viewing.
Perhaps it will catch someone's attention that can help you with advice.
Cheers
Parolee # 53804
Rez- thanks for the bump, and yes, it's still in the cookie jar.
I had a helper over the other day and we we able to find another route without drilling the post.
As usual, it's that other pair of eyes that saved the day.
I forget the code on this, but as long as the hole is near the center of the 4" dimension I wouldn't worry at all about a 5/8" hole. I would'nt go over 25% of the cross section though, and if you need to drill more than one hole separate them out a bit.
When I was building Lindal post and beam houses the answer was a resounding no.........even killed the warranty.
My electrician had fits, but he always managed to do a go-around....for a fee, (of course)........Personally, I don't drill beams....horizontal OR verticle, but I suppose you could if the inspector approved.