Hi John,
You will probably get lots of answers, as opinions vary wildly on questions like this. My 2 cents worth:
I always overdo it with footings & foundations. For post foundations, I generally rent a power posthole digger with the largest auger, and dig as deep as I can, usually about 4 to 4-1/2 feet. I have never regretted having "too much" foundation. The cost of an extra-large post foundation is only a few dollars more than a minimal foundation, so why not?
On decks, I generally use galvanized brackets and "beam on post" construction in hidden areas, and notched or nested construction in visible areas using stainless hardware.
How far you can cantilever out is usually determined by your local building codes. More than a foot or two will usually require an engineered design showing calculations and stamped by a PE. Long cantilevers are, in my opinion, always a bad idea, and should only be used when there is no other viable option.
Again, just my opinion.
John Grube
--- In DoIt_Yourself@yahoogroups.com, "John S. Moss" <jlmoss@...> wrote:
>
> I'm building a free standing deck landing with stairs next to an
> existing deck. It will be 4x4 on 4 6x6 PT posts with 2 2x beams.
>
> 1. I'm located in Denver. What's the frost line? I have seen anywhere
> from 24" to 40".
> 2. What size beam should I use? Is a double 2x12 overkill?
> 3. Should I notch the posts to accept the beams or set the beams on top
> of the posts?
> 4. How far can I cantilever the deck past the posts/beams?
>
> I've seen many different answers and am just trying to reach a
> consensus. Any further info or links would be helpful and appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> John
>
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