Point Load Distribution
Point Load Distribution
(OP)
Does anyone know of a good reference that addresses the issue of distributing a point load out through a wooden deck through to the supports. I have a point load that is applied to a 4" thick deck supported on cross members spaced at 3' on centre and I would like to know what percentage of load I can assign to each support





RE: Point Load Distribution
Be careful of the locations of the ends of each strip; if you dont know the position of the point load with relation to the end of the strip, a simple beam calculation will be the safe way to go.
Tongue and groove decking could be a bit more problematic, but I would arbitrarily assume a beam width of 12 inches.
Also, make sure that the deck won't deflect excessively at the concentrated load.