What maximum bearer or joist length for low-level deck?

JesseS6

Hello,

I'm working on building a low lying deck that has bearers, with joists on top. I understand the requirments of the span tables, and the maximum span lengths. But is there a maximum length for the timber.

Say I have 140x45 bearers with supports every 1000mm (tuffblocks). 90x45mm joists, supported by the bearers every 1400mm. 

Is there a maximum length for the joists/bearers? can they be 5m long if they have the supports per the span tables?

JacobZ

Hi @JesseS6,

As long as the bearers and joists are supported in accordance with the span tables, then your only limitation is the length of timbers that are available.

From my experience, the longest lengths that are readily available in stores are 6 metres long.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob