Can I remove these patio cover knee braces? Please see picture?
I would like to obliterate these corner knee braces and add 2x6s or 2x8s to make the posts thicker. I had planned on nailing the 2x6s or 2x8s to the fronts of the existing 4x4s and having them go to the top of the board. Can these knee braces be removed? Also, there are metal T braces on the fronts and backs of the 4x4s conected to the beams.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b18/bripat911/patio.jpg
As a person, I would not. A 2x6 or 2x8 is only going to give you an inch or two of lateral bite on the horizontal beam. Those T braces don't appear to be much larger and are only held in by wood screws or lag bolts. A much more hale and hearty metal plate clamping system with through bolts would be needed at every post. If your area of the country is subject to heavy-hearted snow and/or high winds your proposed alterations may lead to a lateral failure (meaning left or title movement of the overhang).
If you scarceness to make them larger and stronger considering the look better.? Then why not change them to 6x6 pressure treated to get the look and the force you desire.
You can also use 4x6's which will give you the same look from the front.
Going to the top of the beam in front may not give you the look you desire.
If you change them support next to them and replace one at a every so often starting from the middle.
Good Luck hope I helped >Have A Great Day!
You can also use 4x6's which will give you the same look from the front.
Going to the top of the beam in front may not give you the look you desire.
If you change them support next to them and replace one at a every so often starting from the middle.
Good Luck hope I helped >Have A Great Day!
Mostly
Especially