Understanding Deck Beam Span Tables in Ontario's Building Code
When planning a deck construction in Ontario, it's crucial to adhere to the provincial building code to ensure safety and structural integrity. One key aspect of this is understanding the deck beam span tables outlined in the code. This guide will help you navigate these tables and understand their significance in your deck building project.
Why Deck Beam Span Tables Matter
Deck beam span tables are essential for determining the size and spacing of the beams that support your deck. They take into account the load that the deck will bear, the type of material used for the beams, and the span between supports. By following these tables, you can ensure that your deck is strong enough to support the intended loads and safe for use.
Ontario's Building Code Requirements
Ontario's Building Code, under Division B, Section 9.24, provides guidelines for the design and construction of decks. It specifies that decks must be designed to support a live load of 2.0 kN/m² (40 psf) and a concentrated live load of 0.9 kN (200 lbs) at any point on the deck. The code also outlines the maximum allowable spans for deck joists based on the type of material used.
Maximum Allowable Joist Spans
The maximum allowable joist spans, as per the Ontario Building Code, are as follows:
- 2.4 m (8 ft) for 38 mm (2x8) joists
- 3.0 m (10 ft) for 51 mm (2x10) joists
- 3.6 m (12 ft) for 64 mm (2x12) joists
These spans are based on the assumption that the joists are made of No. 2 grade Douglas Fir-Larch or equivalent and are spaced at 406 mm (16 inches) on center.
Deck Beam Span Tables
To determine the size and spacing of your deck beams, you can refer to the following tables, which are based on the Ontario Building Code:
| Beam Material | Beam Size (mm) | Maximum Span (m) |
|---|---|---|
| Douglas Fir-Larch (No. 2 grade) | 51 | 3.6 |
| Douglas Fir-Larch (No. 2 grade) | 76 | 4.5 |
| Pressure Treated Lumber | 51 | 3.0 |
| Pressure Treated Lumber | 76 | 3.6 |
These tables provide the maximum allowable span for a given beam size and material. They assume that the beams are spaced at 1.2 m (4 ft) on center and support joists that are spaced at 406 mm (16 inches) on center.
Factors Affecting Beam Span
Several factors can affect the maximum allowable beam span, including:
- The load that the beam will bear, including both live loads (like people and furniture) and dead loads (like the weight of the decking and railings)
- The type of material used for the beam
- The spacing of the beams and the joists they support
- Any additional loads, like snow or ice, that the beam may need to support
If your deck has unique features, like a hot tub or a complex shape, you may need to consult with a structural engineer to determine the appropriate beam size and span.
Conclusion
Understanding deck beam span tables is crucial for building a safe and durable deck in Ontario. By following the guidelines outlined in the provincial building code and using the tables provided in this guide, you can ensure that your deck is structurally sound and compliant with the law. If you're unsure about any aspect of your deck design, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional engineer or a building inspector.
More Details
Beam/Joist Framing: ... IT IS THE CONTRACTOR'S RESPONSIBILITY TO. ENSURE THAT ALL CONSTRUCTION CONFOMS. TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE ONTARIO. BUILDING CODE.
... tables, regulations and schedules are copies of various sections of the 2024 Ontario. Building Code. ... beam. 82. 2 per joist. Joist to joist splice (See also ...
Ontario Building Code span tables A1 & A-8 from Division B Part 9 are provided for floor joists and beams within a building. These tables do not account for ...
(1) Except as required in Sentence (2) and Article 9.23.13.10., the spans for wood joists and rafters shall conform to the spans shown in Tables A-1 to A-7 for ...
meets requirements of the Ontario Building Code; this will be at the discretion of your local building ... TABLE B: DECK BEAMS - PER CWC THE SPAN BOOK 2020, TABLE ...
Table 2b - Deck Joist Spans Not Incised (ft.-in.) 7. Table 3a - Deck Joist ... Reference should always be made to the appropriate Building. Code and/or standard.
It is intended to assist homeowners with their deck project while ensuring compliance with the requirements of the Ontario Building Code. ... JOIST SPAN. Up ...
The design and construction of a deck and/or Porch must comply with the Municipality of Trent Hills' Zoning By-Law as well as the Ontario Building Code (OBC).
A copy of all approvals is required. BEAM SPANS FOR DECKS. FLOOR JOIST ... Ontario Building Code. Permits are subject to the approval of the Building ...
2024 Ontario Building Code | Maximun Span Tables Beams Built Up Wood Beams Steel Beams Joists Ceiling Joists Floor Joists Roof Joists Lintels Notching & ...
Use the Ontario Building Code and Deck Construction Drawings Package to ... DECK JOIST AND ROOF JOIST SPAN TABLE. Maximum Span (m). Deck Load or Specified ...
... deck into compliance with the Ontario Building Code (OBC). Determining the ... The following table will help determine beam size required for the proposed spans ...
of the current amended version of the Ontario Building Code as well as all ... spans on both sides of the beam. *Spruce-Pine-Fir No.1 or No.2 Grade. Bearing ...
5/31/2020 The Ontario Building Code | Deflections · 1. Roof rafters, roof joists and roof beams No ceiling 1/180 · 2. ceiling joists Other than plaster or gypsum ...
30.05.2023 ... Column 3 of the Ontario Building Code built up wood beam span table A-3 has me confused. (Canada) · r/Carpentry - Column 3 of the Ontario ...
... requirements of the 2012 Ontario Building Code, as amended, utilizing the ... *SPAN CHARTS The spans noted in both tables above are for Spruce, Pine ...
09.12.2022 ... Share your videos with friends, family, and the world.
Part 9 of the Ontario Building Code for the design and construction of wood framed decks and ... span joist restraint, and may be increased per Table 9.23.4.2.-A ...
01.02.2026 ... Zoning By-law and Ontario Building Code requirements. **If an ... BEAM SIZING TABLE. JOIST. SPAN. PIER SPACING. 6'-0”. 8'-0”. 10'-0”. 12'-0 ...
2.2.) 4) Spans for roof ridge beams shall conform to the spans in Span Table 9.23.4.2.-L for the uniform ...
