Deck Components Drawing your deck Decking Materials

The Deck Components
Posts:
Posts are vertically set on concrete or on piers. There are usually 4 to 8 feet in between each post.

Beams:
Beams are set horizontally parallel to the decking. Deck beams hold the weight of the deck.

Joists:
Joists appear in between the beams. They are usually 1 to 2 inches apart and are used to distribute the weight of the deck.

Decking:
Material that is laid over the joists to create the deck's floor.

Balusters or railings:
Railings are usually 36 to 42 inches tall and their spacing is determined by local building codes.