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However, if there are glaring oversights where safety is concerned, you may want to make alterations or the local inspector may order them to be made. However, much of what the Florida code adds is contained in R507.9 and R507.10 of the 2021 IRC. R507.8 addresses vertical and lateral supports or attachments and is much more in-depth in the 2020 Florida Code than the 2018 IRC. It should be noted too, that lateral and diagonal bracing is important with freestanding decks constructed with posts and beams and more than 24″ above grade as there isn’t a structure to anchor the deck to or with. Joists must be properly fastened to beams in accordance with R507.6.1. The maximum deck beam span for specified joist spans is identified in Table R507.5, and single-ply beams are not permitted unless they are 4×6 or larger. Keys (If your bag is lost, how will you get into your house if your keys are lost with it? Treads will be a minimum of 31-1/2″ wide at and below the handrails according to R311.7.6. Landings and stairs treads may also have a 2% slope for drainage (R311.7.7).

Stringers may be made from pressure-treated 2x12s, metal, engineered wood, or other approved material. Any deck materials containing wood, cellulose, or other biodegradable content must be decay resistant (R507.2.3) and termite resistant (R507.2.4) and comply with ASTM D7032. Footings (R507.3) must be sized appropriately to the imposed loads, at least 12″ below the finished grade, and meet R403.1.4 requirements. Figure R507.6 identifies dropped beam and flush beam construction for freestanding decks with post and beam construction on appropriate footings. Deck joist spans (R507.6) are identified in Table R507.6, and joist spacing is determined by the decking material. Just order your best option of style and color, and your personalized tote bags are ready to deliver. It is best to check with the local building department before beginning any deck structure. I have dealt with several local areas though, that are termed ‘unorganized’ municipalities, which typically meant they didn’t have a building department.

It should be noted, though, that many local codes are one or more update cycles behind the most current IRC. If in the planning stage, an internet search of your local municipal government’s building department should provide links to access current deck building codes. You can access the 2021 IRC online and design your deck to the most current code model, and submit it for permit approval to your local building department. If in doubt, consult a Structural Engineer or the local building department. Spiral and other stairways are addressed in subsections of R311.7.10 and must comply with those requirements, so always check with your local code or a Structural Engineer. Older decks are commonly grandfathered so they don’t need constant upgrades. Plus, freestanding decks need to be anchored to the footings to prevent uplift and racking. Stairs must be anchored to resist lateral and vertical forces or be free-standing and meet all Code requirements. Deck posts (R507.4) for single-level decks are limited to 8’ using 4x4s or 4x6s, and 14’ using 6x6s. Post to footing connections (R507.4.1) must prevent lateral displacement and wind force lift. We are the world’s leading tent manufacturer and supplier of luxury glamping tents.

However, as long as the design or build meets their minimum standards, approval is commonly given. Most building code requirements for a ledger deck apply to a freestanding deck, however, there are a few exceptions. There are several reasons a freestanding deck may be preferable to a ledger deck, such as masonry or brick veneer, flashing concerns, local codes, taxes, permits, or easement issues. I’m loyal to a point, but there are definitely things you could do to lose that loyalty. From our personal perspectives – even our collective personal experiences – things perhaps seem to be pretty good. Alternatively, give your local government office a call or drop in and ask – they may even provide a paper copy for free or at a minimal charge. Even with footings reaching 8″ below the frost line, the deck is still classed as freestanding, it just won’t flex and adjust with seasonal ground movements like one on precast pier blocks. But, like knock-off designer purses, they’re not meant to last. Now let’s take a look at how the frame composition and shape of the ME contributes to its performance.