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Beam span table


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Posted by deljo_agtor

Hi...I'm putting together a plan to get a permit for my backyard patio roof and I'm trying to find out where to get the beam span data for my submission.  I have two 8x8 posts 16ft apart so I'm looking to figure out what sized beam would be able to span 16ft.  I need to account for snow and ice load.  The rafter span (the length from the house to the beam) is 5ft.  Any help would be appreciated.
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Posted by Jack Gray

Hi deljo_agtor -

Just glancing at the relevant code section, Girder and Header Spans for Open Porches (  https://up.codes/viewer/south_holland/irc-2018/chapter/6/wall-construction#table_R602.7-3  ), I'm not positive you can do what you want to do, at least in the United States. It doesn't look like the International Residential Code provides info for any span greater than 14 feet 4 inches (which requires a beam made out of two 2x12's), which implies you'll have to install a third post in between the other two or adjust the length of the beam accordingly.

HOWEVER, I see other municipal codes that DO provide span data for 16 feet (see   https://www.escondido.org/Data/Sites/1/media/pdfs/Building/InfoGuideline8b.pdf  ). These indicate that a beam made from three 2x8's would be ok for your project.

The best way to be certain is to call your local building inspector's office and ask them. You could also call a local lumber yard and ask their technical department for help, they'll know the local code and answer questions like this all the time.

Hope this helps.

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Posted by deljo_agtor

Thank you Roof Online.  I already came across the PDF from the town of Escondido but didn't know how to account for snow/ice load.  I think a 4x10 would suffice my need judging by the table there.  I just wanted to be in the ballpark so that when I do submit for the permit, they won't think I'm out to lunch.
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Posted by Jack Gray

Sounds like you're in the ballpark 👍 We always tend to ask contractors to over-build when there's any doubt. It's caused a few arguments... 
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