Deck's Requirements Per DCA6-2015

I will be discussing some of the recommendation as published in DCA6-2015 (Prescriptive Residential Wood, Deck Construction Guide based on 2015 International Residential Code). This write up is in no way meant to summarize DCA6-2015.

I am not reproducing the document but rather I am highlighting some of the information in it in efforts to make more people aware of such a great resource (free) that is available at everyone fingertips DCA6-2015

https://awc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AWC-DCA62015-DeckGuide-1804.pdf

Engineers are trained to interpret codes, standards and other requirements of the local jurisdiction, also to use their best engineering judgement, training and education when reliable sources aren't available.

In the pictures below information provided to help builders and home owners determine decks maximum joist spans and overhangs. There are a lot of information available to help people get their projects built, and some of it just free like DCA6 2015.

In the pictures below information provided to help builders and home owners determine decks’ maximum Beam Spans and overhangs also joist-to-beam connection detail as well as beam assembly detail.

In the 2 figures below, I am sharing the recommended post to beam attachment requirements as noted in DCA6-2015.

This attachment below is an example of a prohibited post to beam attachment per DCA6-2015. It is important to note that per the article published in the Structure Magazine in April 17th and written by John Showalter, P.E. And Loren Ross, P.E. (Residential Wood Deck Design, https://www.structuremag.org/?p=11302 ).

They do state that" It is important to note that prohibiting attachment of the beam to the sides of the post with fasteners only ensures wood -to-wood bearing. The design of fasteners for wet-services conditions requires significant capacity reductions and should be evaluated by a design professional" Based on this statement a more detailed and maybe lengthy calculations would be required to determine whether this indicated attachment satisfy minimum code and engineering requirements or not. For many people avoiding that engineering expense would just simply to comply with the prescriptive code and eliminate such connection.

In the Figures below you will see a few recommended attachment of ledger board to band joist/rim joist and to foundation wall, also you will see the prohibited attachment per DCA6-2015

Typical foundation options also discussed in DCA6-2015 as shown in the figure below

Below you will see an example guard detail so builders and home owners can determine Guard Requirements for all decks that are 30" above grade.

Examples of Guard Post attachments for required guard are shown in the few pictures below.

Pictures below Explain stair & stair stringer requirements also show tread connection, stair guard requirements and stair stringer attachment detail.

I hope I was able to provide some highlights for this great document, DCA6-2015. Also refer back to IRC and IBC for any additional information that is necessary and not discussed in DCA6.

Call us today if you need any further assistance: 724-949-0004

www.pittdes.com

Written by Firas Abdelahad, P.E.

Firas Abdelahad has been a practicing structural engineer since 2005, collaborating with a diverse range of professionals, including consultants, architects, investors, homeowners, contractors, and subcontractors. Together, they tackle the various challenges that can arise during the design and construction phases of projects.

The information and statements in this document are for information purposes only and do not comprise the professional advice of the author or create a professional relationship between reader and author.

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Navigating the Foundation's Settlement: A Comprehensive Q&A Guide

Step cracks

Step cracks

Frequently Asked Questions about Foundation Settlement:

Q: Is foundation settlement repair a DIY (Do It Yourself) project? Can I hire a handyman for the job?

A: I often receive these questions from my clients, and the quick answers are both "No." Foundation problems, including settlement, should always be addressed by a professional with the necessary expertise. My recommendation is to hire an unbiased and impartial professional to assess and provide their evaluation and opinion. It's best to avoid salespeople who might push their company's services or products. Each situation is unique, and some issues may require addressing the root cause, while others may involve stabilizing the foundation after correcting the underlying problem.

Q: What is the primary cause of foundation settlement?

A: Foundation settlement can be attributed to several factors, with changes in soil moisture content being a major contributor. Let's explore this further:

Drying: Soils tend to shrink during dry periods, especially in regions with excessive vegetation around foundation walls or where trees draw significant amounts of water from the soil. As the soil dries out, it develops voids (air gaps) that can collapse. When the soil beneath your foundation walls becomes excessively dry, settling occurs, leading to foundation settlement.

Wetting: This occurs during heavy rainstorms or flooding when the soil beneath your foundation becomes oversaturated, particularly with clay-type soils. Poor drainage can exacerbate the issue, preventing water from draining away from the foundation.

Plumbing Leaks: Leaks in water or wastewater pipes due to factors like broken pipes or root intrusion can saturate the soil around your foundation, contributing to settlement.

Voids in Fill Soil: Often, builders disturb the soil when grading the ground before constructing a foundation. Loose fill soil is commonly used and may not achieve the same density as the original soil. Without proper compaction, voids remain in the fill soil, leading to future settlement and affecting the foundation.

Differential Settlement: This form of settlement occurs when one side of the house settles more than others due to localized issues. Factors like the presence of a large tree near one corner, a broken downspout drainpipe, a water leak, or negative grading can significantly impact the soil, leading to differential settlement.

These are some of the major factors contributing to foundation settlement. While we've covered several key elements, it's important to note that addressing every condition is beyond the scope of this educational blog.

If you have questions or concerns about your foundation, please feel free to reach out to us at Contact Us We're here to help.

Step cracks

Picture shows both signs of a bow and settlement

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Written by Firas Abdelahad, P.E.

Firas Abdelahad has been a practicing structural engineer since 2005, collaborating with a diverse range of professionals, including consultants, architects, investors, homeowners, contractors, and subcontractors. Together, they tackle the various challenges that can arise during the design and construction phases of projects.

The information and statements in this document are for information purposes only and do not comprise the professional advice of the author or create a professional relationship between reader and author.

Case Study: Restoring Structural Integrity in a South Hills Home (Sagging Floor)

November 2020

Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services- Floor Sag

At Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services, we were recently consulted to evaluate a significant floor sag in a single-family home located in the South Hills area of Pittsburgh. Our detailed assessment revealed critical structural issues stemming from unprofessional modifications made to a load-bearing beam.

The Structural Challenge (Sagging Floor)

The homeowner reported a noticeable sag in the first-level wooden floor. Using precise leveling tools, we measured a deflection of approximately 1 inch over a 4-foot span. Upon further investigation, it became clear that a previous homeowner had altered a load-bearing beam without proper structural analysis. This modification severely compromised the home’s structural integrity, leading to the visible floor sag.

Our Expert Solution

To restore the home's structural stability, we recommended replacing the compromised beam with a properly sized and structurally sound alternative. A Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) beam was identified as the ideal solution due to its high strength and reliability. The beam's size and capacity will be carefully calculated based on span length and tributary load requirements. In some cases, a steel beam may be considered, provided installation logistics align with the project constraints.

Proper installation is critical. This process involves leveling the support system, which may require carefully lifting the floor joists to eliminate sagging. We strongly advise hiring a licensed, insured and experienced contractor to ensure precise installation and compliance with local building codes.

Why Professional Guidance Matters

Structural issues like this are increasingly common, particularly in flipped homes where cost-saving practices or lack of experience may lead to improperly altered load-bearing walls. Removing or modifying structural elements without consulting a qualified structural engineer can result in costly damage and safety risks.

If you're planning to remove a wall and are unsure if it's load-bearing, or need expert guidance on sizing and installing an LVL beam, Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services is here to help. Remember, most municipalities require permits for structural modifications—compliance with these regulations is essential for your safety and peace of mind.

Protect Your Investment

Your home is more than just a structure—it's your sanctuary. We prioritize your safety and the long-term stability of your home. Reach out to us for expert structural assessments, professional guidance, and code-compliant solutions.

Contact Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services today to safeguard your home and make informed, confident decisions.

Picture below shows the improperly modified beam:

"built up beam"

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Written by Firas Abdelahad, P.E.

Firas Abdelahad has been a practicing structural engineer since 2005, collaborating with a diverse range of professionals, including consultants, architects, investors, homeowners, contractors, and subcontractors. Together, they tackle the various challenges that can arise during the design and construction phases of projects.

The information and statements in this document are for information purposes only and do not comprise the professional advice of the author or create a professional relationship between reader and author.