Blocking and Structure Help
I plan on using Timbertech PVC for replacing my original deck boards (I have a lot trees, north facing, deck never dried out, and didn’t want to keep battling staining the deck). I got all the boards off and did a good amount of ground grading underneath.
These are the ideas of what I would like to do, in terms of layout of the boards and railing, but would appreciate any recommendations on the blocking and any other structural prep you may see.
I would like to picture frame around the perimeter. Know I need blocking for that.
I would like to run a breaker that lines up with the hot tub (purple line). This allows me to use 16 footers between the breaker and the stairs on the right. 20 footers between breaker and widest part. Then back to 16 footers on the last section farthest from the house.
For the railing, I’m still unsure. Originally wanted to put post sleeves on the current 4x4 posts then run a cable railing. After thinking about the cuts around the 4x4s for the picture frame, all the corners in the deck’s layout, and the butts of the boards, think I would prefer a cable railing that side mounts on top of the fascia into the framing (looking at Blika) and cutting off the original posts. Should I add a sister joist to thickening it up, and/or focus on blocking where posts will go.
I also have some concerns about the original framing. First, the joists are 16 in OC, so I know I need blocking to help reduce the “springy” feel of pvc boards. Is it worth it to also try to add other parallel joists to decrease that 16 in gap? Should I be blocking the between all joists on the deck? Also, the top right corner of the deck has a small slope down into the pond. I can’t raise the post in that corner because it’s cemented in the ground. I know I definitely should address this so it doesn’t get magnified when the boards are on, but not sure the easiest, but most secure way.
Thanks for any help and other suggestions you see in the pictures and/or my layout plan.