Checking or Notching Deck Posts

[me3_neuralfibre]

If anyone has a copy of the Australian Standards could you please help me. The version I have doesn't comment - but it's the "simplified" one.

I am building a Deck on the back of the house.
Is it necesssary to "check" or "notch" beams into the posts? I would prefer to just bolt them to the side of the post with cup head bolts. To my logic the shear should be fine, as the whole post sits on a pair of these bolts at it's base, and the friction from the clamping would be significant. BUT - if the standard requries notching then notch I shall.

Thanx
Paul

[sol381]

Notch out.. Will only take a few minutes but will be a lot more secure.. Just set the saw to the depth and run it across 5 or 6 times . will chisel out easy. Doesnt have to be too neat. Easier to keep the bearer up while you bolt as well.

[redheeler]

If you must notch, instead of ending up with a square cut, cut your notch and then angle cut away. This can help prevent splitting.

Cheers
redheeler