How can I measure the weight of a porch overhang?

Sue
by Sue

my front porch has 4 6x6 columns. I’d like to take it down to 2 and open it up. How or where do I find out the codes and If two Columns will take the weight. I’m thinking it may be approximately 10’ between columns. thoughts?

  3 answers
  • Janice Janice on Nov 03, 2019

    You may want to contact your city building department to learn about their building codes. Often times if you get to talk with an inspector they can provide you a wealth of information about what is needed or ways to do things for safety and that will pass future inspections done by the municipality. How you go about this is key, askk for their assistance and a good question always to ask is "Is there anything else I need to know before I start?" Usually you'll get good advice.

  • Cynthia H Cynthia H on Nov 03, 2019
    I would speak with the code/zoning enforcement officer for your location. You will need a permit to change it, and it is possible that it won't be structurally sound if you remove those supports. Plus, they may be able to actually look at it. Our zoning officer is a structural engineer and experienced with the safety issues. Remember it is supporting the roof overhang, and any snow, leafs or ice that drops on it, plus withstanding rain and wind.
  • Emily Emily on Nov 03, 2019

    What are the columns supporting? A roof? How high are the columns? Are you saying they are in a row? Or two in front and two in back? Our side porch has two columns on the outside of a 14' length porch. There are also two half columns fastened to the house walls of the porch. You may be able to do it, but as others said, contact your town.