How to Connect Roof Beams & Posts

When using a post and beam design during construction, you must take care to properly secure the beam to the posts. A properly connected roof beam is necessary to help hold the roof securely in place during severe weather, such as storms and hurricanes. You can connect roof beams to the posts with just a few basic tools. You do not need the help of a professional contractor to get the job done.

16d nails
Hammer
Metal straps
8d nails

Instructions

- 1
  Lift the roof support beams up and place them in the desired position on top of the posts. This may require several helpers depending on the size and weight of the beams. Generally, the beams are centered on top of the posts.
- 2
  Drive a 16d nail through one side the beam to connect it to the top of a post. The nail should be placed at an angle of approximately 45-degrees to toenail the beam to the post. Use a hammer to pound the nail until it is flush with the beam. Repeat this procedure to toenail the other side of the beam to the top of the post. Secure the rest of the posts to the beams in the same manner.
- 3
  Place a metal strap in position on a post and beam. The strap should cover both the post and the beam. Use the hammer to drive an 8d nail through one of the holes in the top part of the strap to secure the metal strap to the beam. Hammer the nail until it is flush with the metal strap. Place nails in the rest of the holes in the top part of the metal strap.
- 4
  Drive an 8d nail into each of the nail holes in the bottom part of the metal strap to secure the strap to the post. Hammer the nails until they are flush with the metal strap.
- 5
  Place metal straps on each of the posts to secure them to the beam. Secure each post to the beam with two straps, when possible.

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