The specific size of the beam is critical. Plus I've never heard of a 12x12 solid beam as in "tree". Is it engineered? I'd get something in writing and ask him to make a copy of the span table sheet showing this size will go 24 ft.

These are the kind of posts we get, people having problems after its too late.

It might have been 12x6. It was a verbal quote, not written, though the contract would be written I suppose. I wouldn't give him the 1/2 down without one.

I'm just looking to see if it's even possible to build a cover with such a long span. If it's not, then this contractor should certainly know this, and I wouldn't want to hire him. He said that structurally, it would be the same with one 24' span, or two 12'with a post underneath. No cost difference or strength difference, just aesthetics.

"the same with one 24' span, or two 12'with a post underneath"

Well, that's not logical to me. Somebody needs to get their hands on a span table that covers a 6X12 (its proably three 2X12s sandwiched), I don't have one. You could start searching the web.

I would not use any cedar beams for deck support especially if low to the ground. I have replaced many a cedar beam around here that rotted out, even ones that were elevated several ft. above ground.

For beams stick with TP & wrap them if you don't like the look, that or steel or treated glulams.

Al

"We would like to have a patio cover built over our existing L-shaped patio."

Define "cover."

You might be able to get away with a relatively long span if the loads are very small.

All the wood has to do is hold itself up.