The maximum allowable spans are significantly longer with steel joists. Steel framing is not only lighter and longer-lasting than wood - it also allows for much longer joist spans.īelow, you can see a comparison between 2圆 joists made of three different wood species and 2圆 steel joists from Fortress Evolution Steel deck framing in two different gauges of steel. Here's a helpful chart covering the most popular wood framing species and their maximum allowed spans: What's The Maximum Deck Joist Span?ĭeck joists have different maximum span lengths depending upon the size, spacing, and framing material that you're creating your deck with. That’s why we always recommend checking in with your city’s building department to make sure your plan meets any local or state requirements. Local building codes can sometimes have different joist spacing requirements. If you’re installing deck boards at a 45-degree angle to your joists, you’ll need to tighten up your joist spacing to 12-inches on center. One note: that 16-inch spacing is based on a traditional deck board pattern, with boards installed perpendicular to joists. You can find joist spacing requirements in the installation instructions for your deck boards. ![]() In almost every case, composite decking manufacturers have found that 16-inches on-center is the maximum joist spacing for their boards. To make sure you’re planning your deck frame with the right joist spacing, there are two sets of standards you should check:Įvery deck board manufacturer puts its decking material through in-depth independent testing to find the right joist spacing. How To Make Sure You Have The Right Joist Spacing (On-center means the length from the center of one joist to the center of the next joist, rather than a gap from edge to edge).Ī slightly more in-depth look: the maximum joist spacing you can use for your frame will depend on a few factors: The short answer: deck joists are typically spaced either 12 inches or 16 inches apart, on center. How Far Apart Should You Space Deck Joists? Steel framing also supports longer maximum joist spans, and steel framing parts are more consistent in size and straightness, making things much easier for DIY builders. But new steel framing options are becoming more and more popular for their strength and durability. Traditionally, deck frames were built with pressure-treated lumber. Joists attach to a ledger board using joist hangers and run the entire length of the deck, perpendicular to the house.ĭeck joists, like the rest of your deck’s frame, can be made from a few different materials. Joists are structural elements that make up the framework of the deck beneath the deck’s walking surface.
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