What is the best way to provide lateral support at a wood post to beam
connection for a deck? Is it with knee braces, k braces, gussets, column
caps or a T-straps?
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The short answer... It depends.
If the posts are set into the ground you shouldn't need lateral support. If they are resting on footings, I include diagonals into the framing.
I generally set the outer joist, or beam, into the post, and screw or bolt it tight.
I'm sure you'll get plenty more responses on this one. Fill in your profile with your location, as it may make a difference on what's allowed / required by code.
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If the deck is already built and has a 3-2"x10" built up beam sitting on 6"x6" posts sitting on post bases bearing on 10" diameter concrete piers. The beam is about 7'-0" above grade and I really don't want to use k braces or diagonal bracing.
I was thinking of using knee braces, but do not know what size material to use, how far along the beam and post to attach them and how many nails or bolts to use. Is there any general rules for knee braces?
Properly attached long knee braces are always going to be more effective than a moment connection like a T strap. The trick is integrating them into the deck design so they look good.
Run a PT 2 x 6 across the tops of the posts linking them together. Put your 2x beam on top of the 2 x 6 "plate", lag bolt thru the underside of the 2x6 into the bottom of the beam staggered every 24" o/c.
I like to install blocking on a diagonal within the joist bay, so no braces show. Depends on the design though.
You can also run your flooring on a diagonal to eliminate the need for bracing, but make sure the decking is thick enough for the increased span.
First thing to do is to make sure the deck platform is securely fastened to the building along one edge. Next thing to do is to make the deck platform rigid with a diagonal brace under it (or simply run the deck boards diagonally). Next thing after that is nothing at all.