You have complete control over the way a deck is constructed. You can specify the way you want the beams constructed in relation to the posts. You can also select specific materials to use for deck boards, beams and joists, as well as edit the spacing and overhang of these members.
To edit the deck frame:
Select the deck by clicking on one of its edges.
Right-click and select Properties, or select Edit > Modify Elements > Properties.
In the Decks dialog, select the Frame tab.
To change the way the beams are constructed, click on the desired configuration in the Construction area. Beams are the vertical members that rest on or are attached to the posts, and that support the deck joists.
To select a different material for the deck boards, click the Select button in the Decking area, then make your selection from the catalog.
To edit the properties of the currently selected deck board member, click Edit in the Decking area, then make the desired changes in the Decking dialog.
To edit the spacing between deck boards, edit the value in the Spacing edit box in the Decking area.
To change the amount the deck boards hang over the deck frame, edit the value in the Overhang edit box in the Decking area.
To adjust the angle of the deck boards in relation to the joists, edit the value in the Angle from Joists edit box.
To select a different material for the deck joists, click the Select button in the Joists area, then make your selection from the catalog.
To edit the properties of the currently selected joist member, click Edit in the Joists area, then make the desired changes in the Members dialog.
To edit the spacing between joists, edit the value in the Spacing edit box in the Joists area.
To change the amount the joists hang over the beams, edit the value in the Overhang edit box in the Joists area. The general rule of thumb is to limit the extension to 1/3 of their length.
To select a different material for the deck beams, click the Select button in the Beams area, then make your selection from the catalog.
To edit the properties of the currently selected beam member, click Edit in the Beams area, then make the desired changes in the Members dialog.
To change the amount the beams extend past each other, edit the value in the Overhang edit box in the Beams area.
Once you’ve specified the deck frame properties, click OK.