Expert: Dan Griffin - 10/16/2009

Question
Hello again Dan,

I did not get my patio cover permitted however I did call my local building department and asked a lot of questions to make sure it would be built to a minimum of their code.  The inspector I spoke with mentioned my hypothetical plan would be more than adequate.  To answer your questions the concrete pillars are buried 2'-2'6" depending on the grade where they are sitting.  Our frost line is 12".  I used Simpson post bases and HTT22 tension ties which are both anchored into the concrete with 8" redhead bolts.  The 6x12 beam is connected to the 6x6 posts with Simpson CC66 bolted buckets.  The connectors I used to attach the rafters to the beam and ledger are Simpson AZ35 with 1-1/4" teko nails.  We decided last night to go with 3/4"ac plywood for the roof decking and either metal or a rubberized corrugated roofing material for the roofing.  With using plywood do you advise that I still install some for of x bracing?  Thanks for all of your help and have a great weekend.

Billy

Answer
Billy, I like your decision to use sheet goods on the roof.  With adequate nailing the sheathing will provide the shear resistance you need so you do not need the x bracing.  Sounds like a great project coming together.

A normal nailing pattern would be 6" o.c. on edges and ends and 12" o.c. in the field.