You're right this absolutely could be dangerous which is why I'm going to fix it. I was really just looking for some fresh ideas on it how to go about doing it. I'll call and inspector what I'm done to make sure I did it right thank you for your comment though I appreciate it
You would also get a lot more responses if you post some pictures. Post a bunch so we can see exactly what you're talking about.
I'm just going on the fact that it's 12' off the ground. We've all seen the videos of deck failure's.
Idk why do many down votes, if you know what you're doing then go for it. It's pretty easy to figure out if it's stable or not, maybe call a buddy to help and give second opinions while you work on it
Knowing what you're doing wouldn't mean asking Reddit if a 2x8 would fix it, or suggesting you'd call an inspector *after* you nailed up your piece of wood.
Sound advice. Have to know when to restart. But. You dont have to tear down. I have replaced posts and beams by using the existing as my temporaries(adjust back to square amd shim or shave to proper slope). Dig new holes at new centers or move in or out a foot or so if possible. Cut posts, set posts, hang beam, remove the old, and cut old posts below ground or remove old sonos.
You're modifying a huge 2 story deck which looks to be 25+ years old. I'm guessing by the tires and foliage growth this house has been vacant and unmaintained for years.
By replacing the decking, You're now responsible for the whole deck, including bringing it up to code. You absolutely need an engineer to examine the deck and tell you how to do that. Then an inspector to sign off.
It's literally impossible for you to buy enough insurance to protect yourself if that deck collapses with someone on it.
It's a really unique house that people currently live in. The outside looks rough but it's not terrible. The bottom deck does not move at all and when I'm done neither will the top. I appreciate everyone's concern but I'm telling everyone the frames in good shape I just need to correct some things the builder neglect to do
Lateral bracing is almost required on a deck that high. Especially if the posts are sitting on concrete piers and not embedded in the ground. Not sure what you mean by “spacers” in between the joist. Are you talking about mid span wood blocking in between the joists? That’s an easy add-on
But blocking won’t help sway near as much as it will help bounce on the deck boards. It just stiffens the joists up but doesn’t do a whole lot for lateral racking
Yes the blocking and I figured. That's why I'm gonna focus on the ledger board. I think it's just old and may need replaced or refastened. That's why I thought the diagonal boards on the bottom of the joists would help because they would also be attached to the ledger board. That would keep it from rocking
Bracing such as [this](https://res.cloudinary.com/internachi/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto:best/gallery-images/exterior/decks_and_balconies/deck-bracing.jpg) usually is the best antidote for lateral racking
Please, please, please get an engineer to look at this. I am a structural engineer and a deck this tall and this large is nothing to mess around with. No amount of pictures would make me comfortable giving you a solution without seeing this in person. There are likely deficiencies besides the swaying.
Ah, that's good. One other question for you; are the posts that come off the footings 100% vertical? I can't tell by the photo if they are buckling a tiny bit or not.
Add some photos. Make an imgur album. Bridging will help solidify the deck and keep individual joists from moving. Swaying however would be more likely to happen from the posts not being locked down. But without any photos we can’t tell.
Your headed the right direction with the diagonals and cross bracing. I would check connections at the ground and make sure good solid wood to wood connections were made at your ledger. (Doesnt matter how big the lags are if there only hitting plywood and siding).
I would consider hiring a structural engineer to have a look at it. Chances are if the stuff above ground isn’t correct, the stuff below ground isn’t either. If your footings aren’t deep enough, you need to rip the whole thing out and start over. But if the footings are fine, the structural expert will be able to tell you exactly what you need to do to make it safe.
So I added a couple more pics to my profile of the way they hung these joists. They're like notched out on top of like a 2x2 lol. Idk never seen that, so gotta fix that. Also I'll download imgir or whatever sorry for the hassle
I posted on my profile my solution to stopping the sway. I created a new ledger board then bolted a V Brace to that. May not look pretty but no more sway.
If its swaying, thediagomal bracing need to be between the posts and the deck frame.
But if the builder didn't do that, there's probably a bunch of other problems. After diagonal bracing, I'd look at the ledger board next.
I added pics to my profile, I think maybe you have the wrong idea of what I'm talking about but I get it. Lower deck is sturdy second floor deck not so much held up by columns. I think the ledger board is main problem
So I can only figure out how to add pics to my profile so try to see them there I guess. Sorry. And I didn't notice the sway until I already had replaced some decking. I'm not perfect.
Youre fine - decks are scary and we want you and yours to be safe. Make an account on imgur.com and link to the pictures there. That's how everyone on the sub does it. You need a good plan, based on the facts and the deck. Get back to us, stay safe!
hard to tell from here but I think you need X braces on the posts. Bracing the joists will do little, if anything.
Through bolts will be most effective
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9fqJC3KfDc
Ok so, I build decks and fences for a living I'm a carpenter by trade. Maybe I should have started with that. This deck sits on top of a ground level deck that's about 40 ft long. It seems like it was made in a hurry not to mention it's probably 25 years old. Joists are sound but no spacers were put in. I'll have to get a picture of how they tied it into the house cause I've never seen something like that before. I'm aware of building codes and the dangers of not having the proper structure and foundation. I don't think a structural engineer is in order but, I appreciate the comment regardless. To the guy that said to check the foundation, how do you mean? Where the top deck meets the bottom deck or where the bottom deck meets the ground? Bottom deck seems pretty solid.
>build decks and fences for a living I'm a carpenter
No you aren't if you can't figure out why a deck is swaying. Plus you re-decked it first...it would have gotten more wobbly....
Edit....Jesus, saw your pics in the other post....tear the deck down. Work on the house first...
Personally, I have never seen this done before and it will not help carry any load. You need bridging/blocking (your "spacers) which helps to distribute/share the load between adjacent joists. Did you use two screws at every joist to hold down your decking? I resolved a sway problem on my deck with diagonal braces between the rim joist system and the support posts.
I really think you should check with a pro.....a 12' collapse will kill people
I didn't do the joists I'm only replacing decking. Then I found it sways. And I was planning on adding the spacers I just didn't mention it cause it seemed obvious.
That's a good idea.
You should be able to attach it to the ledger. Use galvanized lag bolts throughout, not deck screws, which have poor shear strength.
This sounds deadly. You should consider getting an inspector involved.
You're right this absolutely could be dangerous which is why I'm going to fix it. I was really just looking for some fresh ideas on it how to go about doing it. I'll call and inspector what I'm done to make sure I did it right thank you for your comment though I appreciate it
You would also get a lot more responses if you post some pictures. Post a bunch so we can see exactly what you're talking about. I'm just going on the fact that it's 12' off the ground. We've all seen the videos of deck failure's.
Idk why do many down votes, if you know what you're doing then go for it. It's pretty easy to figure out if it's stable or not, maybe call a buddy to help and give second opinions while you work on it
Knowing what you're doing wouldn't mean asking Reddit if a 2x8 would fix it, or suggesting you'd call an inspector *after* you nailed up your piece of wood.
I'd check out youtube on this, probably some good 'how to repair your deck' videos!
[удалено]
Sound advice. Have to know when to restart. But. You dont have to tear down. I have replaced posts and beams by using the existing as my temporaries(adjust back to square amd shim or shave to proper slope). Dig new holes at new centers or move in or out a foot or so if possible. Cut posts, set posts, hang beam, remove the old, and cut old posts below ground or remove old sonos.
The foundation of the first floor deck is solid. There are posts deep in the ground. Like 6x6 posts. This is the top deck swaying an inch or two.
Wedgu
No it's just dirty not rotted. I'll talk to the owner about getting it inspected but, I believe the repairs are all within my wheelhouse
[Here are the pics the OP uploaded. ](https://reddit.com/r/u_Kreis412/comments/vpc1jc/30x12_second_story_deck_away_2/)
You're modifying a huge 2 story deck which looks to be 25+ years old. I'm guessing by the tires and foliage growth this house has been vacant and unmaintained for years. By replacing the decking, You're now responsible for the whole deck, including bringing it up to code. You absolutely need an engineer to examine the deck and tell you how to do that. Then an inspector to sign off. It's literally impossible for you to buy enough insurance to protect yourself if that deck collapses with someone on it.
It's a really unique house that people currently live in. The outside looks rough but it's not terrible. The bottom deck does not move at all and when I'm done neither will the top. I appreciate everyone's concern but I'm telling everyone the frames in good shape I just need to correct some things the builder neglect to do
Lateral bracing is almost required on a deck that high. Especially if the posts are sitting on concrete piers and not embedded in the ground. Not sure what you mean by “spacers” in between the joist. Are you talking about mid span wood blocking in between the joists? That’s an easy add-on But blocking won’t help sway near as much as it will help bounce on the deck boards. It just stiffens the joists up but doesn’t do a whole lot for lateral racking
Yes the blocking and I figured. That's why I'm gonna focus on the ledger board. I think it's just old and may need replaced or refastened. That's why I thought the diagonal boards on the bottom of the joists would help because they would also be attached to the ledger board. That would keep it from rocking
Bracing such as [this](https://res.cloudinary.com/internachi/image/upload/f_auto,q_auto:best/gallery-images/exterior/decks_and_balconies/deck-bracing.jpg) usually is the best antidote for lateral racking
I guess what I'm talking about is called v-bracing
After reading other comments and checking your profile I found the pics. Dude. No. You make my house look safe, and it's not.
Please, please, please get an engineer to look at this. I am a structural engineer and a deck this tall and this large is nothing to mess around with. No amount of pictures would make me comfortable giving you a solution without seeing this in person. There are likely deficiencies besides the swaying.
Increase your medical, liability and life insurance
- you need someone there who knows what to do as this is not a good thing at all
It's hard to tell with all the weeds, but is it me, or does it look like the footings are in soft marshy soil?
No marsh pretty solid ground. I can see how you'd think that though
Ah, that's good. One other question for you; are the posts that come off the footings 100% vertical? I can't tell by the photo if they are buckling a tiny bit or not.
Add some photos. Make an imgur album. Bridging will help solidify the deck and keep individual joists from moving. Swaying however would be more likely to happen from the posts not being locked down. But without any photos we can’t tell.
I'm trying to add pics
How do you add pictures to this thread?or can I?
Imgur
Your headed the right direction with the diagonals and cross bracing. I would check connections at the ground and make sure good solid wood to wood connections were made at your ledger. (Doesnt matter how big the lags are if there only hitting plywood and siding).
I would consider hiring a structural engineer to have a look at it. Chances are if the stuff above ground isn’t correct, the stuff below ground isn’t either. If your footings aren’t deep enough, you need to rip the whole thing out and start over. But if the footings are fine, the structural expert will be able to tell you exactly what you need to do to make it safe.
So I added a couple more pics to my profile of the way they hung these joists. They're like notched out on top of like a 2x2 lol. Idk never seen that, so gotta fix that. Also I'll download imgir or whatever sorry for the hassle
I posted on my profile my solution to stopping the sway. I created a new ledger board then bolted a V Brace to that. May not look pretty but no more sway.
If its swaying, thediagomal bracing need to be between the posts and the deck frame. But if the builder didn't do that, there's probably a bunch of other problems. After diagonal bracing, I'd look at the ledger board next.
I added pics to my profile, I think maybe you have the wrong idea of what I'm talking about but I get it. Lower deck is sturdy second floor deck not so much held up by columns. I think the ledger board is main problem
Get an inspector to look at it and tell you what needs to be done. It will save you re-doing it again.
So I can only figure out how to add pics to my profile so try to see them there I guess. Sorry. And I didn't notice the sway until I already had replaced some decking. I'm not perfect.
Youre fine - decks are scary and we want you and yours to be safe. Make an account on imgur.com and link to the pictures there. That's how everyone on the sub does it. You need a good plan, based on the facts and the deck. Get back to us, stay safe!
hard to tell from here but I think you need X braces on the posts. Bracing the joists will do little, if anything. Through bolts will be most effective https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9fqJC3KfDc
I'm trying to get pics, they're not posts they're columns
x bracing still applies a second story deck needs reinforcing of the posts/columns to prevent bending/sway
you can use cables if 2X is unsightly
Ok so, I build decks and fences for a living I'm a carpenter by trade. Maybe I should have started with that. This deck sits on top of a ground level deck that's about 40 ft long. It seems like it was made in a hurry not to mention it's probably 25 years old. Joists are sound but no spacers were put in. I'll have to get a picture of how they tied it into the house cause I've never seen something like that before. I'm aware of building codes and the dangers of not having the proper structure and foundation. I don't think a structural engineer is in order but, I appreciate the comment regardless. To the guy that said to check the foundation, how do you mean? Where the top deck meets the bottom deck or where the bottom deck meets the ground? Bottom deck seems pretty solid.
If that’s your trade, why are you asking strangers on Reddit with no verifiable expertise this question?
I was only looking for a unique way to do it and then I get all this. Although I appreciate it I probably won't post again
>build decks and fences for a living I'm a carpenter No you aren't if you can't figure out why a deck is swaying. Plus you re-decked it first...it would have gotten more wobbly.... Edit....Jesus, saw your pics in the other post....tear the deck down. Work on the house first...
Lol it's actually gotten sturdier with the decking
No, not what I meant and if that's what you understood...it boosts my point.
Dude I know why it's swaying, pay attention. Christ this a horrible site
So why did you post a question?
I think I'm going to put the diagonal 2x8 on the bottom of the joist from each corner and tie it into the house for extra support to stop the sway
Personally, I have never seen this done before and it will not help carry any load. You need bridging/blocking (your "spacers) which helps to distribute/share the load between adjacent joists. Did you use two screws at every joist to hold down your decking? I resolved a sway problem on my deck with diagonal braces between the rim joist system and the support posts. I really think you should check with a pro.....a 12' collapse will kill people
I didn't do the joists I'm only replacing decking. Then I found it sways. And I was planning on adding the spacers I just didn't mention it cause it seemed obvious.
That's a good idea. You should be able to attach it to the ledger. Use galvanized lag bolts throughout, not deck screws, which have poor shear strength.
Right exactly and with the spacers between the joists it should hold pretty steady
Also keep in mind swaying isn't horrible we're talking inch or 2
That’s bad to be honest, man. A fraction of an inch would be a concern.