Maximum deck rail span cedar versus P/T as per OBC SB-7

5/10/2019 at 2:09:09 PM

The 4x4 posts wrapped are fine to do.

Depending on what your toe kick board thickness is will really determine your span. Normally the maximum post distance would be 6 apart. If your bottom toe kick board is 1 1/2 thick it will sag after a year if it s spanning more than 6 . The pickets will not help the sagging.

Code requirements are nice to follow but I wouldn t recommend going over 6

Kind regards,

1 Fine Home Renovation

5/11/2019 at 3:10:47 PM

In reviewing SB-7, details EB-1 through EB-5, I would suggest following the spacing as recommended using Spruce-Pine-Fir as this will in the end determine the strength of your guard.

SB-7 is pretty much the standard when it comes to constructing guards in Ontario. The municipality is not going give you an answer in the event there is a mistake, they are worried they would then be held accountable. Sadly we are in a society where we blame the other party and sue if something has gone wrong instead of taking ownership.

Best of luck.