post selection

[jaybird3897]

Are 4x6 post enough for a 32x48x12 pole building or should I use 6x6 post? Will there be a big difference in strength? What has everyone else used? I will be using 8 inch concrete tubes on top of a concrete disk.

 

[01ssreda4]

I've got 6x6 every 12 feet in my 24x48 with 12 foot ceilings. I'm using three 4x12x48 ceiling runners running lengthwise to hold up the rafters. They are notched cut into the top of the 6x6s.

 

[RPH]

6x6 min once you get to 12'.

 

[NUTTSGT]

Even if the code didn't require 6x6, I think I would definetly want them.



Heck, the over hang on my garage, I used 4x6s rather than 4x4s.

 

[kbs2244]

6x6 vs 4x6 is a 50% increase.
That is a lot.

A lot will depend on the post spacing.
If you go to smaller posts you will need more of them.

 

[jaybird3897]

I am initially planning on going every 8' with the post. I am in the process of figuring out the codes in our township. When pricing post I seen that prices almost double for 4x6 to 6x6. I am just wondering if 6x6 might be overkill as I am on a budget but I also don't want a weak building either. Just curious what everyone else is using and how it is working out. Thanks for the replies!

 

[bob15]

You would be better using a couple/three 2x6's screwed and glued together using a construction adhesive. The post will be straighter and stronger.

If you will be having a beam sitting on top, you can then add 2 more 2x6's and box the horizontal beam in and it will never shift on you.

bob

 

[robarosa]

If you have not done so already, find a place that does the treating. For example in Alto Texas there is a place that does all that. You can pick up posts, 2x, and what ever your pole barn needs at a serious savings over a big box store.

 

[RPH]

Look at the load carrying ability of the 4x4 vs 6x6 in the vertical plane. It increases dramatically. I don't have the figures at the moment but might be able get them. The book I have them is at home but maybe able to get it from the laptop at work.

 

[larry_g]

am I correct in thinking that you are going to fasten your post to a concrete pier in the ground, or are you going to bury the post? Here we build with 6x6 posts 4' in the ground and on 12' centers. If you look at some of the builds in the gallery you will find many variations of what people call pole buildings. So can you be a bit more descriptive of what construction methods you intend to use?

lg
no neat sig line

 

[jaybird3897]

Called the local building inspector and I don't have a choice, it is 6x6 post for 12' walls. I also have to have 16" holes with 12" concrete disks 4" thick and then backfill with gravel. I can do concrete but he said my post would rot if encapsulated in crete. Now I get to decide on metal or shingle roof. Decisions, decisions!!

 

[santagary]

You would be better using a couple/three 2x6's screwed and glued together using a construction adhesive. The post will be straighter and stronger.

If you will be having a beam sitting on top, you can then add 2 more 2x6's and box the horizontal beam in and it will never shift on you.


x2...three two by sixes is what Cleary builders use. I had them do 4
two by sixes on my exterior loafing shed posts....that makes them cow proof when they pole dance or scratch their butts.
bob

 

[cyamaha2007]

USE LAMINATED POSTS They are sweet. Very straight and will resist rot much better. Im building a 36x56x14h pole barn and am using them. Im very impressed. The pressure treatment is much more effective when you use a laminated post. Also they were the exact same price.

 

[SteveU]

The 4x6 at 8' spacing will be fine, I would still use double 2x12 headers & wind clips for strength if you live in an area with snowfall.