How Much Weight Can A 4×4 Post Hold?

If the weight is distributed evenly, each 4×4 post will support a max of about 400 pounds.

How much weight can a 4×4 post hold vertically?

The load capacity of a 3-foot #2 grade 4×4 is 17,426 pounds, and a similar 6×6 is 20,834 pounds or 16% better. However, an 8-foot 4×4 supports 6468-pounds and 2339-pounds at 14-feet, while a 6×6 is 18032 and 10550-pounds respectively – or 64% and 78% more load capacity.

Which is stronger a 4×4 or 2 2×4?

When used vertically, 4x4s are stronger than two 2x4s. However, if you need a horizontal surface, two 2x4s will be stronger than one 4×4. A 4×4 should not be used horizontally for anything structural. Always be sure that you’re using the proper size and strength of lumber.

Should you use 4×4 or 6×6 deck posts?

While there may be a handful of circumstances that only require the minimum 4×4 deck post, you will more than likely want to choose a 6×6 post for the deck. It provides more stability for larger decks, the ability to hold a heavier load, and more room for notching.

How much weight can 6×6 post support?

A 6×6 with 12′ span can support 2000 lbs. if you assume a conservative 1400psi bending stress. If you do a good job bonding the two members together, your double 6×6 can support more than 4,000 lbs.

Can you build a deck with 4×4 posts?

In the past, many decks were built with 4×4 support posts (also called structural posts). But these can bow seriously, even if a deck is only 3 feet off the ground. For that reason, we strongly recommend that you use 6x6s instead, even if your building department does not demand them.

How much load can a 8×8 post support?

That being said, a post can hold a tremendous amount of load! If a particular species of wood can support 1,000 psi, then an 8×8 post can hold 64,000 pounds! The limiting factor (reason to up-size) will likely be aesthetics and/or the number or type of joints needed.

Can I use a 4×4 as a joist?

You can’t even use a 4×4 as a post for a deck any more, no way this would work or be allowed.

Which is stronger 2×6 or 4×4?

The single 2×6 is 68% stronger than the 4×4 for vertical loads as you describe. However, I caution you that it may be a good idea to have someone design this beam properly so the job is done right. If you’re willing to have a 4″ wide beam, why not create a double 2×6 beam, this will be 237% stronger!

Can you use 4×4 for studs?

An interior wall supporting just roof load is (usually) fine with 2×4 @ 24″, so 4×4 is fine too. An exterior wall has to support load plus wind and 2×4 @ 24″ is no good.

Are 4×4 posts strong enough for a deck?

For most decks, post size is overlooked unless an inspector notices the unusual height of a particular deck. A short 4×4 can carry an awfully big load, and many deck builders use 6×6 posts as a standard, regardless of the height or load of the deck.

How much weight will a 4×6 post support?

2 Answers. Assuming it’s “Lodgepole Pine” (Idaho Pine and Ponderosa Pine is slightly less) and it’s grade is a No. 2 and better (no loose or missing knotholes), then a 4×6 spanning 18′ will support about 105 lbs.

Can a 4×4 support a roof?

An 8′ tall 4×4 column is rated for 6092 lb. design load. A 9′ tall 4×4 column is rated for 4,956 lb. design load.

How far apart should 4×4 deck posts be?

The maximum spacing of 4×4 deck posts should be 6 feet on center, while the maximum spacing of 6×6 deck posts should be 8 feet on center.

Can I use 4×4 post for patio cover?

The smallest beams for patio covers are typically 4-by-6. In general, the maximum span for a 4-by-6 beam is 6 feet between 4-by-4 posts. If you move up to 4-by-8, you’re usually allowed to span up to 10 feet between posts. A 4-by-10 can usually span up to 12 feet between posts.

How many 4×4 posts do I need for a deck?

The larger 12-foot side will have a post spacing of 6 feet at a minimum code requirement. That makes a total of eight posts that need to be installed on this average size deck. For aesthetic or symmetry reasons, more posts may be added.