How To Build And Level A Deck Beam - Fine Homebuilding

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Log In How-To Ultimate Deck Build: Building and Leveling a Beam

Even at grade level, this beam has an important job.

By Justin Fink

Building and Leveling a Beam: It may be only inches from the ground, but the carrying beam in a grade-level deck does the same job as a structural beam 10 ft. overhead. It should be built strong, set level, and protected against rot. In this episode, we show you how to set the metal hardware, build and position the beam, adjust for level, and protect this structural component from the elements.

Note: in this video the crew uses post base connectors to attach the double 2x beam to the footings. Because of the 1/2-in. difference between the post base and two layers of 2x lumber, a 1/2-in. shim (ideally ripped out of the same pressure-treated lumber) would be the best way to bridge the resulting gap between the hardware and the back of the beam—which is not shown in the video.

You can also find an assortment of post-base connectors (which may also be improvised to attach beams directly to posts) explained in Mike Guertin’s Options for Fastening Deck Posts to Footings Posts video, but talk to your local building supply store for other options they may have. Also, check with your local building official for suggestion and to confirm the method you have in mind passes local codes.

Read the related articles:

Frame a Grade-Level Deck

Frame a Grade-Level Deck

The Complete Guide to Building a Hardwood Deck

Frame a Grade-Level Deck

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Videos in the Series

  • Ultimate Deck Build

    Follow along with these step-by-step instructions on how to build a grade-level deck with cable railings.

  • Ultimate Deck Build: Fastening a Ledger to Concrete

    Learn how to make this critical framing connection for a safe and sturdy deck.

  • Ultimate Deck Build: Pouring Accurate Concrete Piers

    Learn how to use the deck ledger to determine the pier heights, a critical dimension in a grade-level deck.

  • Ultimate Deck Build: Building and Leveling a Beam

    Even at grade level, this beam has an important job.

  • Ultimate Deck Build: Framing the Deck

    With the ledger and beam in place, the rest of the framework can be assembled.

  • Ultimate Deck Build: Pouring and Finishing Concrete Slabs

    Editor Justin Fink and builder Chris Aherns build a code-compliant landing for the stairs on this Project House deck.

  • How to Install Railing Posts for Cable Rails

    In order to meet code requirements for strength, railing posts must be reinforced with the same lateral-load connectors used at the ledger.

  • Ultimate Deck Build: Cutting and Installing Stair Stringers

    Simple math and accurate cuts yield a perfect set of deck stairs.

  • How to Install Hardwood Decking and Skirtboards

    Learn tips for cutting and fastening dense exotic hardwoods like Brazilian Teak, Cumaru, or Ipe.

  • Installing Cable Railings

    Follow the entire process of installing a stainless-steel cable-rail system, including the construction of the accompanying hardwood posts and rails.

Previous: Critical Deck-Framing Connections, Part 2: Beams and Support Posts Next: Build a Grade-Level Deck: Install Posts and Rim Beam View 2 comments

View Comments

  1. Nickatprobuillt | Jul 03, 2016 07:43am | #1

    Awesome article. Very comprehensive tutorial on how to build and level a beam.

    Nick http://www.probuiltsite.com

  2. user-7750644 | Jul 01, 2021 01:10pm | #2

    What’s the size of post base? Usually the post base is 4x4, which is 3.5 inch actual. But two 2x10 beam is 3 inch thick. There is 0.5 inch gap. Is there post base of 3 inch wide?

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Tag » How To Build A Deck Beam