When you’re constructing a pergola, one of the most important considerations is the beam span, which is the distance between the posts. A pergola beam span table is the best way to determine the correct size for your project. Depending on the type of wood you’re using and local building codes, the span table will tell you the maximum distance your beams can span between posts. In this article, we’ll take a look at the basics of pergola beam span tables and how they can help you create the perfect pergola.
Why You Need a Pergola Beam Span Table
The purpose of a pergola beam span table is to provide you with a guide for the correct size of your pergola beams. Without it, you may not know how far apart you should place your posts, which could lead to an unsafe and unstable structure. The span table will give you the recommended beam span for your type of wood and local building codes. This will ensure that your pergola is structurally sound and safe.
How to Use a Pergola Beam Span Table
Using a pergola beam span table is relatively straightforward. First, you’ll need to determine the type of wood you’re using for your pergola. Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to check your local building codes to make sure your pergola is compliant. You’ll then be able to look up the maximum span of your beam in the table. The span table will provide you with a range of spans for various beam sizes, so you’ll be able to choose the best beam size for your project.
Common Types of Wood Used in Pergolas
When you’re constructing a pergola, you’ll need to choose a type of wood for the beams. The most common types of wood used for pergolas are cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine. All of these woods are strong and durable, and are suitable for outdoor use. However, each type of wood has its own characteristics, so it’s important to choose the right wood for your project.
Cedar
Cedar is one of the most popular types of wood for pergolas. It’s naturally resistant to rot and insects, and it has a beautiful grain pattern. Cedar is also a softwood, which makes it easy to work with. However, cedar can be expensive, and it may not be suitable for all climates.
Redwood
Redwood is another popular choice for pergola beams. It’s a lightweight wood that’s highly resistant to decay and insects. Redwood also has a beautiful grain pattern, and it’s easy to work with. However, it can be expensive, and it may not be suitable for all climates.
Pressure-Treated Pine
Pressure-treated pine is a popular choice for pergola beams. It’s a softwood that’s been treated with chemicals to make it resistant to rot and insects. It’s the least expensive option, and it’s widely available. However, it has a limited lifespan, and it may not be suitable for all climates.
Choosing the Right Size Beam
Once you’ve determined the type of wood you’ll be using, you can use the pergola beam span table to choose the right size beam for your project. The table will provide you with the maximum span for each size beam, based on the type of wood you’re using and your local building codes. You’ll also need to consider the load that will be placed on the beam, such as the weight of your roof or awning. If the load is too heavy for the beam size, you may need to use a larger beam.
Conclusion
A pergola beam span table is an invaluable tool when it comes to constructing a pergola. It will help you determine the correct size of your beams, based on the type of wood you’re using and local building codes. You’ll also need to consider the load that will be placed on the beam, such as the weight of your roof or awning. By following the guidelines in the pergola beam span table, you can be sure that your pergola will be safe and structurally sound.