Beams
Beams - A cedar deck is not normally built all cedar because cedar is weak (but long lasting and beautiful). Thus the beams and joists (not shown here) which hold up the deck are normally made from treated wood. Theses are usually hidden completely so appearance does not matter
Footings
The concrete squares below the beams that the posts rest on are called footings. The posts are attached with a metal base that is bolted to the footing. This post is off to one side so that another post can be added in the center later for a future roof. This future roof will need the stronger support of the center position
Before Installing End Joist
Should be showing a picture of many joists running between beams but I forgot to take it. So this is where the other end joist will be installed. The beam has its members staggered to allow screwing into both pieces from both directions for extra strength. Hard to see but note how the end has a shorter piece
End Joist
The double 2x6 running to the right is the first joist. All of the joists will run this way. The other 2x6s running down is the front beam. This first joist is double because it needs extra strength. There is not another one further out to share the weight like the later joists in the middle
Finished Deck
Finished deck with railing. This is one style of railing. It is strong but one side (inside vs. outside) looks different. The other common style looks the same from both sides but the balusters can turn and twist. The balusters are the skinny pieces that run up and down
Finished Deck - Another View
All done
Finished Deck - Railing
You can see the difference between the inside and outside of the railing here. Both sides of the railing look good, just a little different. Either side can be placed inside or outside according to preference
Finished Deck - Inside View
This deck is still unstained and unsealed. Fresh cedar is too wet to seal for a few months. A deck made of treated wood planks needs even more time before seal and/or stain
Finished Deck - Other Inside View
This deck is still unstained and unsealed. A clear sealer can be used which darkens the wood only a little. This leaves a rich cedar color
Finished - Side View
All done. This deck is still unstained and unsealed. The owners could opt for a darker brown or red colored stain. Or keep the color light
Finished - Other Side View
Everything done. When the deck is ready to be sealed later, it will need to be cleaned first.
Side - Another View Angle
Finished