Estimate posts along a bearer
This is a layout helper only. It does not size footings, posts or bearers.
SpanFinderAustralian span tools
SpanFinder.com.au
Deck Bearer & Post Spacing Calculator
Estimate post or pier spacing along a bearer line and understand how support spacing relates to bearer span-table selection.
PostsTargets deck post spacing, bearer spacing, pier spacing and bearer span calculator searches.
Estimated supports
5 posts
Approximate spacing: 1500 mm.
The chosen spacing becomes a bearer span input, but the bearer must still be checked in the relevant span table.
Related calculators and guides
Deck bearer and post spacing FAQs
What is deck post spacing?
Deck post spacing is the distance between posts or piers supporting a bearer. It often becomes the bearer span checked in the span table.
Is post spacing the same as bearer span?
Usually, if posts directly support the bearer, the distance between posts is the bearer span. Complex layouts may need engineering review.
How do I estimate number of posts?
For a simple straight bearer line, divide the bearer length by your chosen maximum spacing and add one end post.
Does closer post spacing help?
Closer posts reduce bearer span, which may allow a smaller bearer, but footing design and practical layout still matter.
Can this choose the bearer size?
No. It estimates post count and spacing only. Use the live span finder or source bearer tables for member selection.
SpanFinder toolkit
Popular calculators and span guides
Move between the live finder, load-width calculators and plain-English guide pages without losing the flow of the job.
Deck span calculatorStart with deck span, spacing, dead load and basic support assumptions.View deck tool
Floor load width calculatorEstimate the tributary floor width carried by a bearer before checking spans.Calculate FLW
Joist spacing calculatorWork out joist count and spacing before reviewing span-table options.Check spacing
Bearer post spacingUnderstand how posts and supports relate to bearer span selection.Review posts
Deck span tablesLearn the terms used in span tables, span charts and product data.Read guide
Calculation pathway
A cleaner way to work through a span check
Choose the member
Decide whether the check is for a joist, bearer, beam or related support member.
Confirm load width
Use FLW or spacing inputs to describe how much area the member is carrying.
Compare suitable spans
Use the live finder and guide pages to compare preliminary member options.
Verify final design
Confirm product data, site conditions, manufacturer requirements and engineering where required.