I have a client that has a self standing deck (not attached to the primary structure) with a fairly large hot tub on it. The deck is about 10 feet off of the ground on 6x6 posts. After running a few numbers and looking at other deck bracing horror stories across the web I've decided that the typical knee bracing will not cut it for this project.
My two best options at the moment to suggest to the client are full on 2x6 x-bracing between posts or some sort of steel rod x-bracing with turnbuckles for tensioning. I am wondering has anyone had any experience with the steel rod bracing option.
I have not. I'd imagine the connection to the post is the tough part. AISC manual for the steel, NDS for the connections?
Many folks are building houses on poorly braced piers. There is a need and opportunity. I've wondered if a steel bracket could be designed to connect post to beam that acts as a brace by running down the post and along the beam with either a strong enough gusset or a short knee brace welded in. With engineering documentation I think these could be a manufactured alternative foundation method not only for decks but for houses as well.
I haven't installed the steel rods but did have to firm up a deck that had them. I noticed they only were providing support in one direction so depended on opposing rods to do any good. This made the connectors loose everywhere else. 2x6 crossbracing provided tension AND compression and firmed everything up
If it is pressure treated post, regular steel with rust.