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Standard spans for residential construction
3

Standard spans for residential construction

Standard spans for residential construction

(OP)
I'm under the impression that there exist standard tables that define permissible spans for beams of various dimensions.

* Is that true?
* If so, where might they be found?
* What kind of loading & material properties do they assume?

What I'm specifically interested in are things that would apply to a free-standing or partially attached patio cover or shade structure.

RE: Standard spans for residential construction

Check the associated section (wood framing) in the international building code; therr you will find prescriptive lengths for various spans and cross sections.

RE: Standard spans for residential construction


Our Massachusetts state building codes have tables for floor/ceiling/roof joists that define permissible spans based on wood species and intended use.

I think the town building inspector compared my spans to a table based on the Mass code.

The spans were first limited by stress in the "extreme fiber" (top and bottom joist face).  Then, if a drywall finish was to be applied, the deflection at max load was less than span/240 to hopefully keep the drywall from cracking.  In the unfortunate case a flat roof is  planned I think the deflection was limited with the intention to prevent a run-away load situation from "ponding."   

RE: Standard spans for residential construction

I have an Excell perlin spreadsheet is you want it.

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