i want to build a small deck about 12'x 14' right off my concrete patio in my back yard i have been looking at your site and i got most of it down pat and the pictures of other homeowners decks look great. i noticed on most of the decks the 4x4 up rights for the railings they are thru bolted on the outside of the 2'x 12' or 2' x 10' can i run them on the inside of the side board to kind of make it stronger and to clean up the side of the deck i know i would have to notch the floor boards but i think it might be stronger that way.

thanks tony
p from charlotte nc

Yes. You can put the handrail on the inside of the boards. It will be a little more difficult but your are correct is will be more sturdy and look cleaner. When you do this do this keep the handrail posts separate from the leveling posts.

Deckman