Is this structure sound?

Submitted by Capt_Corn_Dog t3_10ytyyk in DIY

I am wanting to move my kayak out of the garage and into the side yard along a fence. I want it somewhat shaded and out of the elements. I designed this in Fusion 360. I learned on the go, so I can't figure out how to add the dimensions for display. But the longest 2x4, which supports the roof "joists" is 10' long. The 2x4s that serve as the base and support the runners for the kayak are 4' wide. The support for the tallest side of the roof is around 5'. I just want to make sure this is structurally sound and will stick around for several years.

https://preview.redd.it/4hwyupyjkdha1.png?width=1159&format=png&auto=webp&v=enabled&s=2aad6700db91a6e20fbbbec4296c8fbb08f182b7

https://preview.redd.it/x6qt1uyjkdha1.png?width=1135&format=png&auto=webp&v=enabled&s=cdf62f33142f320dfdd8c1a66fa756689a8e4f93

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Red8Rain t1_j7znhco wrote

More advanced than me. I put mine outside, under a tree, on two horses and wrapped it with rain tarp. Called it a day.

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danauns t1_j7zj9mv wrote

It's fine for a quick kayak shelter.

One thing I'd change: it's always best to build horizontal beams on top of vertical posts, rather than bolt beams onto the side of posts as you've illustrated. This transfers the load directly rather than relying on the shear strength of your fasteners.

Edit: how's this going to be anchored to the ground?

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Capt_Corn_Dog OP t1_j7zsh2g wrote

The plan was weight, but I think maybe the best route may be to extend the vertical posts and drive them into the ground a few feet?

Good point on the load transfer, I'll redesign that, thank you!

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lateralus1983 t1_j82lap5 wrote

I don't know but it looks like a strong breeze could use that roof like a sail. I would definitely mount the veritical 2x4?s to the ground maybe just some concrete cylinders you set them in.

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virgilreality t1_j7zuwhp wrote

Looks stable side-to-side (long-ways), but needs diagonal stabilizers front to back too. Smaller is fine, and actually, your other diagonals could probably be a lot smaller.

The vertical posts need to be 4x4s, and if you're doing that, make them tall enough to stand under without banging your head. You can hang the kayak(s) and equipment on the posts instead of on the ground that way, too.

I also suggest that you cut the tips of the long 2x4s at a 45 degree angle to minimize head bruises. Very simple miter saw cut.

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Capt_Corn_Dog OP t1_j7zwuwp wrote

All very good points. Will incorporate into my second draft!'

Don't know about hanging it. The yak is over 100 lbs. I'll look into options that are rated for that much weight. I definitely don't want to hang by the handles, because they are secured with rivets. Good enough to move around, but don't think they're intended to be used as long term weight bearing.

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virgilreality t1_j818yon wrote

Design something that would support it, but fits into it lying on the ground, then mound that to the posts.

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KarpGrinder t1_j7zj927 wrote

How much exposure would there be to wind in the location you're looking to install this?

Are you planning on putting roofing tile/shingles on the top?

Will the structure be placed on soil/gravel/concrete/etc.?

How will you be fastening the columns/beams (i.e.: galvanized angle iron, etc.)?

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Capt_Corn_Dog OP t1_j7zs4ab wrote

The tall side will go against a fence, and while further away, the house will mitigate wind from the other side.

Yes, shingles.

I was planning on grass, and using ground contact rated lumber for the 4x4 and vertical posts.

I was planning on buying or renting a framing nailer. I've never done this before, but am fairly capable if I know what to do, which is why I'm asking here.

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KarpGrinder t1_j7ztqnf wrote

Rather than nails - I'd recommend wood screws and angle iron like these ties commonly found at most hardware/DIY stores.

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anacreon1 t1_j7zj9sb wrote

Google “rafter span table” or “rafter size chart” to get info on what dimension lumber you should be using for various parts of the project. It also depends on where you are located. If this structure will be expected to handle a snow load for example then it’s critical you build it to handle that. What do your local codes have to say about standards for similar structures in that regard?

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Capt_Corn_Dog OP t1_j7zrjey wrote

Thanks for the tips. No snow here in coastal Texas usually. But I'll look into it.

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CloudDrifter0017 t1_j7zl58d wrote

No because the whole structure is a sailboat with that angled roof

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Capt_Corn_Dog OP t1_j7zrpud wrote

The tall side would be near a wooden fence that is taller than my structure.

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rudownwiththeop t1_j80w9d7 wrote

4x4 posts for the uprights put them on pier block, or better yet, cement them into the ground
Front to back bracing
Add some strong ties to the diagonals... they'll hold better

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69Dankdaddy69 t1_j7zk4kz wrote

Youve got thin bits of wood perpendicular to the length of the roof. I would perhaps consider using thicker posts or square beams for these. You wouldnt want wind to blow it over, and those thin sides could be a vulnerability.

I would also concrete them into the ground at least a foot, maybe foot and a half.

Roof likes fine. If its just for a kayak it really doesnt need to be fort knox.

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WISteven t1_j80bpmy wrote

Just make sure you pin it to the ground. A gust of wind hitting that the wrong way would flip it over quickly.

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MajorElevator4407 t1_j809ghi wrote

Put your vertical post on top of the 4*4 laying on the ground. That will keep your post out of the dirt and reduce the rot.

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buildyourown t1_j80tasw wrote

I wouldn't put a 2x4 on its side to support any roof load. Up that to a 2x6. Notch the post and set it in.

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espressocycle t1_j80wtch wrote

You know most people would just buy a tarp.

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Capt_Corn_Dog OP t1_j819bfx wrote

Maybe, but I wasn't looking for recommendations on whether this was overkill. I did that in Hawaii, and it constantly got pools of water in the cover that was a pain. I'll still be covering it, but mainly for sun protection of the gear on top. It's a fishing yak

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Inshpincter_Gadget t1_j8385ku wrote

Get yourself some Simpson 3" SDS screws and a cordless impact driver. Works great for those flat "face nail" connections.

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itz_mr_billy t1_j84n747 wrote

Im an engineer and “carpenter” (come from family of carpenters and have helped my dad for a number of years. I know a decent amount in the trade)

This needs to be tied to the ground. I’d set 4x4s at least 2-3’ feet into the ground with concrete for the post. The 4x4 (?) joist you have the girders (what the kayak will rest on) sitting on could be switched to 2x6s and elevated off the ground.

The beam on the front and back which support the roof need to be at minimum a double 2x6 to support that span and roof load. The rafters are fine to be 2x4s. You need a barge rafter to hold the rafter ends in position. The over handing decking in the end with no rafter is no bueno. Decking cannot go unsupported for more than a few inches

The braces are fine. I’d probably add a short one on the side to tie back to the middle

Feel free to pm me for any other questions! Or reply to this

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Capt_Corn_Dog OP t1_j88sauh wrote

>he braces are fine. I’d probably add a short one on the side to tie back to the middle
>
>Feel free to pm me for any other questions

Thanks so much! This is why I posted my question! :) I got a while before I'll be building it, so when I get to a second draft, I'll take you up on the p.m. Thanks again.

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