Hey folks, what are your thoughts on the pictured configuration? The deck/structure is newly remodeled, I’m hoping to find a building permit record, however, I can’t find anything associated with code that addresses this angled post configuration attaching the outer band of the deck/landing to the lower foundation of the home.
I understand that we are not “code inspectors” and are generally looking for defects associated with the current building configuration but…is there a resource I am ignoring/overlooking?
That is not a prescribed deck per any code I am aware of. Therefore, depending on the local jurisdiction, it would have to be an engineered system approved by the AHJ. The notched guard posts are another indicator this is not a prescribed deck.
I will add, that is not an uncommon configuration for a balcony, but it is odd with stairs. Perhaps the stairs were an afterthought.
You don’t show any of the important fasteners. If permitted it must be an engineered design as Brian suggested. How good will likely depend on what is fastened where (as in the deck end of the angled braces) and how?
Why some carpenters / people to do what they do who knows. IMO it would have been easier (and correct) to have just installed a corner post and been done with it.
As others have said that needs to be designed by code. The four important things that need to be checked first is the outward thrust at the top of the angled supports, the transfer of the inward thrust at the bottom and the lateral deflection of the angled supports. Finally this configuration is pulling the ledger board away from the wall. The next critical issue is fasteners that are now in tension vs shear. Devil is in the details.
Whether it was permitted or not, engineered or not, that design is going to put additional tension (more reliance) on the ledger board, joists, and associated fasteners. If the ledger fasteners are not stagger 1/2 galvanized lag bolts or screws and the joists do not have tension devices, I would definitely call those out.
I would also make sure that main post is pressure-treated. The post looks like it is in a small depression that will fill with water and just a matter of time before it rots out (and puts even more tension on the ledger). It should be on a raised concrete pedestal IMO to help preserve its integrity long-term.
I would also make note of the unconventional design and re-emphasize that I am not a code inspector.
I’m not a Structural Engineer, but that deck just doesn’t look safe. I would call it out as improperly supported, but another good call would be to recommend further evaluation by a SE.
You have a clear large jpeg image for the deck and stairs, Gabriel? I would love to take a better look at all the components.
The raised deck requires stability from gravity or vertical live and dead loading, lateral or horizontal loading and uplift loading from wind shear.
!: I see no horizontal and diagonal bracing.
2: As well I see a column missing.
3: The diagonal braced lumber at the front of the deck and the guardrail posts are secured to the rim joists and rim board. That is 1.5" material.
4: I see no lag screw or bolt washers to prevent damaging and loosening the connections.
Been a busy couple of days sorry for the late reply - permit was pulled, passed, etc. Here are a few pics (not hi-res, they’re filtered through reporting software)
