Trace the load through the complete structure
Decking transfers weight to joists, beams, posts, connections and footings. A stronger surface board does not strengthen an undersized beam or a deteriorated ledger connection. The information needed for review includes member sizes and spans, species and grade, fasteners, footing details and the way the deck connects to the building.
Distributed weight is not the same as a concentrated load
People moving across a deck and a filled hot tub do not load it in the same way. Planters, masonry, outdoor kitchens and storage can impose substantial permanent or concentrated loads. Put these items on the drawings before the design is finalized. Do not treat a generic pounds-per-square-foot figure as permission to install a heavy feature.
Review the existing deck before changing its surface
Inspect the support system with a qualified professional before replacing boards or adding equipment. The American Wood Council's residential deck resources explain the scope of prescriptive construction; local requirements and conditions determine whether a project fits that scope. For a capacity decision, use the project's design professional and authority having jurisdiction, not a shopping calculator.
Technical reference: American Wood Council deck design resources. Verify the scope and the requirements applicable to your project.
