I would like to build a western cedar structure with 6"x6"

or 6"x8" posts and beams...

I would like to build a western cedar structure with 6"x6" or 6"x8" posts and beams. The posts will be 8' tall, the beams will be 15' and 13' long. In the middle of the 13' beam, a 4' 6"x6" post will be placed at each side and will support a 15' 6x6 center beam. I will be placing 9 - 8' 2"x6" rafters from the lower beam to the center beam on each side and the roof will consist of 32 - 15' long 1"x6" decking boards. The post supports are simpson strong ties in 48" deep 12" diameter underground concrete tubes. I calculated the weight of the lumber that the beams and posts would need to support at around 900 pounds. Can I safely support all this with four posts? I can go with the 6"x6" or 6"x8" posts and or beams.

Thanks

Steve

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Answered in 5 minutes by:

2/20/2014

Structural Engineer: walkereng, Consultant replied 8 years ago

walkereng, Consultant

Category: Structural Engineering

Satisfied Customers: 5,395

Experience: Over 35 years of Structural Engineering experience.

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walkereng :

I can help

walkereng :

Let me read your question abit closer

walkereng :

do you have any drawings or sketches you can share with me?

walkereng :

You can attach them to the chat window with the paperclip in the toolbar

Customer:

Not really, it is a rectangle supported by the posts. I wasn't sure if I could span 15" with a 6 x 6 with that weight

Customer:

I would like to not place a middle support, but could go with a 6"x8" for greater strength

walkereng :

could you draw a rough sketch for me? I want to make sure I fully understand your configuration. You kind of lost me when you described a 4' long 6x6 post at each side?

Customer:

ok give me a minute should I draw on paper and scan in or how do I sketch on site?

Customer:

here it is

Full Size Image

Customer:

that was end view

Customer:

side view:

Customer: