Wood
For The Job
The designs
in this book are only a few examples of the creative potential of
landscaping with cedar. In adapting them to your own ideas on outdoor
living, you will want to calculate lumber sizes suitable for larger
or smaller structures.
Beam
sizes for load bearing structures such as decks or roofed areas should
be calculated using the span tables
available through national building codes. 
Where
two alternatives are shown, your choice will depend upon which size
looks better in your design. In order to provide extra deck or roof
area, beams may overhang their supporting posts, but this overhang
must not exceed one-third of the beam span with maximum of 3'.
Post
sizes can be calculated from your beam size. They should be equal
in width to the width of the beam they support, with a minimum of
4" x 4". If posts are longer than 11' the design should be checked
by an engineer of architect. Fence posts are traditionally 4" x 4"
unless the design of your choice calls for lighter or heavier supports.
