Description

Discover practical ways to connect two beams to a single post, with guidance on Code compliance, calculation steps and suitable options for different roof types.

• NZS 3604:2011 does not directly cover connecting two beams to one post, but its details can be adapted for this situation.
• Calculate the roof area supported by the post to determine the required fixing strength for each beam.
• For light roofs, two beams can be bolted to a corner post, ensuring proper bolt spacing and post extension above the top bolt.
• For heavy roofs, use rebates cut into a larger post to support the beams, with similar bolt and post requirements.
• Metal angle brackets (with or without gussets) are also suitable, provided manufacturer recommendations for strength are followed.

NZS 3604:2011 Timber-framed buildings section 9 deals with post and beam connections but only provides details for connections in situations where one beam is supported by a post. A question BRANZ frequently receives is how beam to post connections should be made where two beams are supported on one post. Note all aspects of post and beam designs must accord with NZS3604.

Scope

This article covers:

• Connections to resist uplift
• Calculating the loaded dimension for two beams on one post
• Solutions for supporting two beams.