Can a 2×6 beam span 11ft

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I need to span a beam 11' between two 6×6 posts to support the rafters for a covered pergola. I was thinking of fastening 3 pieces of 2×6 together to create a stronger piece. Is it possible?

Is there a calculator somewhere for this? I was looking at some tables, but most of them are for decks, which require higher loads than this – 10psf dead load, 5psf live load.

Best Answer

You can use the Sagulator. Putting in some quick numbers for Ponderosa Pine, I found a single 2x6 on edge to be acceptable for an 11' span holding up to ~1000 pounds total. Laminating 2 or 3 together will be plenty acceptable, and may be overkill, depending on the wood you're using.