Bski I too really like these wooden bridges. But in my case I want to build a bridge across the creek in my wooded area. The span would be about 36 feet. I'm concerned that wood would not last long in my case because the trees are so thick that light does not penitrate and things tend not to dry out. Rout sets in rather quickly. If I ever get around too it I'm planning on using steel.
All of the foundations I layout have 12"W X 24"D beams. This is kook engineering in our area most builders use 9"w x18"D. The ones I layout are normally used in commerical foundations. As you know the largest load in this case is the fireplace. There is a 8ft square 4ft deep slap underneath it. This foundation was also piered for extra kooking. A 51/2" brick ledge 1-1/2 inch drop is standard for rock and brick work. With 12 inches of beam you can have 2x4 or 2x6 walls.
The road goes on forever and the party nevers end...............................................
