Scenery build

monroe

New Member
I am working on a show that has a platform 11' off the ground and is 14' x14'. One actor on top and others below.
Originally I had a fabricated welding a frame for me but has since taken a higher paying job. I am a wood worker and can build a platform but the front legs they want pipe. The design is not a cantilever.
Going through books, the span is bigger than a triscuit or stressed skin.
I am contemplating making a floor from 2x8x14. Back supports from 4x4 and front with 2" pipe legs on 4x4 plates.
Any guidance or knowledge would be greatly appreciated
 
Will you be able to anchor it to the floor or no?
 
Structural Design for the Stage by Alys Holden and Ben Sammler would be a great resource here. You need to consider the loading and rating of the beams and joists; loading, rating and slenderness of the posts (legs); and bracing. I think (not sure without looking it up) that 2" pipe is too slender for that length without bracing along the length. Also, pretty sure is 14' is too long a span for 2x8.

A lot depends on were you can put legs and bracing. But think about a design that uses just a few beams capable of the span (maybe 3 or 4 - US, C and DS, supported by legs) and then smaller joists running the other direction between the beams.
 

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