Wood post to wood pile connections

[struct_eeyore]

So I have a structure where a wood post really wants to sit directly on top of a wood pile - does anyone have any experience with connections that would work here? On the corners of the structure I was going to offset the post to the corner of the pile so that I can run a flat strap down 2 sides. However, I have a post in the middle of the building where this set up will not work. Thanks in advance!

 

[dik]

Check and see what type of connectors Simpson has to offer.

Dik

 

[JoelTXCive]

Can you provide a hand sketch or diagram?

How big of a post, and how big of a pile?

Also, what sort of loading? I'm assuming shear and axial, but is there a moment?

 

[jayrod12]

Any uplift or shear? If just gravity and you want a connection for the sake of something solid Simpson Strong-tie makes a retrofit post base that would do what you need.

 

[struct_eeyore]

Sorry about the details - the pile is 12" sq, the post is a 6x6. Uplift and diaphragm chord forces - shear can be neglected. The only thing simpson has are straps that can be attached if the two pile faces are in plane.

 

[JoelTXCive]

I don't know.

All I can think of is some sort of steel saddle or cap that sits on top of the pile that lets you get some bolts into the side of the pile. That doesn't sound cheap or easy.

Is there any ability to 'meet in the middle'? Change the 12" pile to an 8" pile and then upsize the post to an 8x8? Then you could use steel splice plates at the connection.

 

[jayrod12]

What about something like this?

It will require you to block out your column as there is only a 1 1/2" offset on the connector. But it may just do the trick. Depends on the magnitude of the uplift.

 

[msquared48]

Simpson has a square post base connector with a hole for an after set bolt in the center of the plate.

Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)

 

[BAretired]

I haven't seen square timber piles in practice. Normally they are round and naturally tapered from end to end with the butt end at the top. Normally they are driven and cannot be relied upon to be precisely in the correct location.

This suggests some sort of a transition piece between the pile and the column with separate connections to each.

BA