Beam support

[MPdesign]

Can a 5-1/4" wide beam be supported by a 4x4 with column cap?

[Jim Baird]

Bearing on wood is 2" in general, no?

[mcyr]

Can a 5-1/4" wide beam be supported by a 4x4 with column cap?

Depending on the tributary loading of the post and the proper post to beam connector, yes.

A picture would help along with more info.

[David Meiland]

It can be done. The Simpson PC64-16 connects a 3-1/2" post to a 5-1/2" beam. W1=5-1/2", W2=3-9/16". Simpson makes some other stuff for this also.

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[mjr6550]

As long as the connection is proper it could be fine. But, it would depend on the load as to whether there is enough bearing area, and also whether the 4x4 has enough capacity.