Longtime reader (homeowner), fist-time poster. Thanks for all the helpful discussion.
I’m working on a small porch on the front of my house and have a question about the joist size. Here are the specs:
5 1/2′ deep
12 1/2′ wide
18″ off ground
2×8 ledger
double 2×10 girder
Girder span between footings: 8′
joist span: 4 1/2′, 12″ OC
I was originally planning 2×8 joists, but in order to minimize the step up into the house I’m wondering if 2×10 joists would be ok to give extra height.
My gut is saying this is a no no, but given that this is such a small porch I’m wondering if it matters and if I’ll get any push back from the inspector.
Thanks
Replies
I can't imagine an inspector being bothered by you going to deeper joists.
If you needed the 2x10s to make the span, then the 2x8 ledger would be an issue. But in this case, even 2x8s are overkill, except that you need at least their depth to achieve a code-compliant railing post attachment. In short, I doubt it will be an issue.
Let me add this to the equation...
The ledger is already there, so I'd be attaching the 2x10s flush with the bottom of the ledger, such that the top of the 2x10 is above the top of the ledger. I would rip a shim to make up the height difference.
But you're right, its completely over-engineered, but I do want a nice solid entry.