I decided to resurface my existing deck and because there is a fair bit of rot on the joists. When I tore it down to the frame, I noticed that some of the joists are sistered because the deck is over 16' long and I don't think they were able to get lumber longer than 16'.
- I've seen decks tutorials in the past break a larger deck up into multiple sections using a rim joist in the middle (not sure if it's still called a rim joist if it's in the middle -- happy to be educated here). Is that the right approach here? (Top diagram in the attached image)
- Is sistering the joist a valid approach, is it better or worse? (Bottom diagram in the attached image)
- Are there other approaches you would recommend?
A couple of details that are probably relevant:
- Planning on replacing with composite using hidden fasteners, so I don't think alignment of the joists between the left/right half need to be identical.
- There are 4 beams supporting the frame, approximately every ~3.5'
Any and all advice is appreciated!