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I wanted to use a 4x6 for a beam for two swings, with eye bolts with washers through the whole beam vertically. However I do not have access to 4x6. I can buy two 2x6, but how would bolts work? Since bolts would be in between of two 2x6 I am thinking the holding capacity is not as high as through a 4x6 because of the gap between two boards.

Any thoughts on how to hang two swings on two sandwiched 2x6?

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  • Dry the lumber then glue it, for best performance. I would use 2-part epoxy with additives. However, drying lumber is very, very slow.
    – Harper - Reinstate Monica
    Feb 10, 2022 at 6:47
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    Could also use chain to go around the 2x6s, and bolt the swing to the chain.
    – crip659
    Feb 10, 2022 at 14:05
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    "I do not have access to 4x6" Have you tried going to a lumber yard instead of the local big-box chain store? If they don't have one in stock, they'll cut one for you, probably while you wait. Might cost a bit more, but they can provide it kiln-dried if desired (it will be more stable that way), and can advise you about the strength of different species and ways to protect it from the weather to get the best life out of it. What you may pay extra for the lumber is more than made up for by the knowledge they'll share with you.
    – FreeMan
    Feb 10, 2022 at 14:47
  • I did contact local lumber yards, they could not supply 4x6. It is not a common size here, or maybe it is too much a hassle for them, who knows.
    – anm767
    Feb 10, 2022 at 22:14

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Yes, you can, if you fasten them together well. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts, as they say, because stiffness and twist resistance are a matter of the cross-sectional aspect ratio. This would also result in a lamination, which is actually an improvement over a single timber because of the variation in grain and knots.

Use pairs of 2½" corrosion-resistant screws every 12-16", or use staggered, galvanized or stainless bolts at the same intervals.

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  • I would agree 2 are stronger than one, knots in different locations and less twisting. Laminate and use a bolt that a washer can be on top this will provide full strength compared to screwing in a eye.
    – Ed Beal
    Feb 10, 2022 at 21:06

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