OrangeYouGlad100 OP t1_iug3rkv wrote on October 31, 2022 at 1:33 AM

Here is an image of my deck plans to help visualize the setup in question:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Zs97wA_hXPqVcCFDbkHZ_RisW3bhXe7K/view?usp=share_link

Melstner t1_iug5fke wrote on October 31, 2022 at 1:46 AM

This link doesn't work for me.

OrangeYouGlad100 OP t1_iuhfxl5 wrote on October 31, 2022 at 11:08 AM

I added the image to the original post.

SirMaxPowers t1_iugwo2k wrote on October 31, 2022 at 6:23 AM

That's too much over kill on the pierpads/ deck blocks. For 16' you should have 3 pads/ blocks on each doubled up 26, 2 towards the end and 1 center. I would add a double 26 beam in the middle for added support/ to help bounce or defection. So imagine the beams going the 16' length, two where you have them at the top and bottom, one in the middle. So 3 -16' " beams" or double joist, and 9 pads total for a rock solid foundation.

Also if you add butyl tape/ window flashing that comes in rolls, on top of the joists where the decking meets ( on top of the 2*6 where you screw the decking) your joists will last a whole lot longer.

That 3 beam setup would be strong enough for most environments/ weight.

Here in WA if the deck isn't over 30" off the ground you don't need railing.

Also they sell concrete blocks/ pierpads with an adjustable 4*4 metal bracket so if you mess up a cut or the ground settles, you can use a wrench to adjust it up and down. Good luck..

OrangeYouGlad100 OP t1_iui3h4e wrote on October 31, 2022 at 2:35 PM

Thanks for the suggestions! Unfortunately, I already bought like 20 deck blocks that have a space for a single 2x and therefore can't fit a double beam (this kind https://www.lowes.com/pd/Common-7-in-x-11-in-x-11-in-Actual-7-125-in-x-10-375-in-x-10-375-in-Concrete-Deck-Block/50113084 ). I suppose I could return them all.

Alternatively, could it make sense to use 3 beams like you suggested, but put the blocks under joists instead of beams like in my picture? I got that idea from these plans:
https://gardenplansfree.com/furniture/deck-plans-free/

SirMaxPowers t1_iuiece6 wrote on October 31, 2022 at 3:50 PM

What's the load/ weight your putting on this? Usually the load is supported by beams running 90 degrees to the joists.. I can't speak to this plan, I've never built one like this but it doesn't mean it's wrong..

Unless your installing on concrete you'll want to make sure all 20 blocks are level and even with each other. That can be a pain but depending on skill and terrain. But if you're going for a low profile look than this might be better than buying and burying adjustable pierpads. Good luck!

OrangeYouGlad100 OP t1_iuigsa7 wrote on October 31, 2022 at 4:06 PM

Thanks. Aside from the weight of the deck itself, it will only need to support a few deck chairs and a few adults. And yes, it will be low profile. The joists will be just an inch off the ground and the surface of the deck around 8 inches high.

SirMaxPowers t1_iuihmkv wrote on October 31, 2022 at 4:12 PM

Gotcha. Make sure you use treated lumber, not much ventilation under there. Good luck.

SirMaxPowers t1_iugwyoh wrote on October 31, 2022 at 6:28 AM

Also here in WA, I believe you don't need a permit for a deck not attached to the house. If that were the case I'd negate the first beam. If you're, worried take a detailed drawing to a builder and they might give it a once over for you.