Joining Oak Beams

Question

I am building a lean-to car port and have installed the 3 uprights in 100mm x 100mm x 3m in oak.  I was planning to build the roof structure in softwood using 75mm x 50mm with a 5m long cross member on the top of the oak uprights.  Due to an ordering error I have 2 extra 100mm x 100mm x 3m oak pieces. How could I connect these on the top of the uprights, I was planning to use 150mm timber lock through the soft wood cross member but if using the oak would have to abut the 2 ends of the oak beams on top of the  centre upright.  Is there a special bracket/connector for the centre column?  Thanks in advance for your comments.  Andrew

William · Accepted Answer

So if I'm understanding right this will be a horizontal part ? Joining the two oaks will require making up a scarf joint.

Is this part taking the roof load ? (Acting as a roof plate essentially

If so I would just advise you to take it on the chin and order again

Sean · Answer

Hi Andrew! It sounds like you're making good progress on your lean-to carport. Using the extra oak beams can definitely enhance the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your project. Here’s how you might connect the additional oak beams to your uprights:

### Connecting the Extra Oak Beams

1. **Positioning the Beams:**
   - If you plan to use the oak beams as a support for your roof, you can position the two 3m oak beams horizontally on top of the three uprights. Placing them alongside the cross member will provide additional strength.

2. **Abutting the Beams:**
   - If you plan to abut the ends of the oak beams on top of the center upright, consider using a simple method such as:
     - **Mortise and Tenon Joints**: This traditional joint provides a strong connection for timber and can work well for your oak beams.
     - **Half-Lap Joints**: This involves cutting away half the thickness of each beam so they can overlap and create a strong bond.
   
3. **Using Timber Lock Screws:**
   - If you're using Timber Lock screws to attach the cross member, you can also use them to connect the oak beams. However, ensure you drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the wood.

### Brackets/Connectors

- **Special Brackets:**
  - There are several types of brackets and connectors available that can help with this type of joinery:
    - **Post Caps**: These are brackets specifically designed for connecting horizontal beams to vertical posts and can provide significant support.
    - **Angle Brackets**: For additional strength, you can use angle brackets at the joints where the beams meet. 
    - **Timber Connectors**: Companies like Simpson Strong-Tie offer a variety of timber connectors that could work for securing beams in your carport setup. Look for products specifically meant for timber framing.

### Installation Tips

- **Ensure Level and Plumb**: When installing the extra oak beams, make sure they are level and aligned properly with the existing uprights to avoid any structural issues.
- **Support During Installation**: It may be helpful to use temporary supports while you fasten or secure the beams to ensure they don’t shift out of position.
- **Check Local Building Codes**: Make sure your design complies with any local building codes and requirements, especially related to structural support.

Good luck with your project!

Michael · Answer

A Half lap joint would be the easiest way to join the two pieces, I would suggest using dowels either side of the center point to really add some strength back into it along with a decent external wood glue if it's to be outside.

Garry · Answer

Hi
 I would suggest, you cut the ends in centre down 200mm and cut one side of each off  join them with glue and pegs, cut from the of cut timber, drill, pegs clamp together over night

Merlyn · Answer

Hi Andrew,

As an experienced carpenter, there are a few ways to join the oak pieces.

W would recommend doing a lap joint which is achieved by cutting away a notch in one end of each piece of timber.

To achieve this, cut 50% (In this s case 50mm deep by 100mm in length one end of each pice of timber.

check that each piece of timber fits snugly and make any finee adjustments with a chisel so that you have a continuous beam and an exact fit.

Pre drill and conter sink 2 X diagonal holes through one side of the joint 75mm deep and then again through the opposing diagonal.

Using a decent grade wood glue, apply to both inside of the newly created lap joints and fit timber together.

Then drive 4 X 75mm screws into the lap joint, 2 from either side.

Allow to dry overnight and Bobs your uncle....

I like this as its a practical non complicated, neat & very strong way of joining timber for this purpose.

Hope this helps!

Kind regards,

Merlyn Jackson T/A Mint Projects

Joining Oak Beams

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