Here are some shots of my last summer deck project. I happen to pick the stretch of hottest weather to work this. A buddy and I that have never done "Hacks" this worked on it.

The middle (top) was the original deck. The boards were rotting. The step downs I added after I bought the house.


I reused the original support beam. I think it was 6x12. I had to move it to the center and dig down. Added 5/8minus and I think 3 supports.


Framed so the 2nd step from first picture is same level.


I am very pleased how it turned out. Eventually, I will replace the remaining cedar with composite decking Monarch Teak Edge from Dunn. I did not build it with the Clips (they are very expensive) I used a Headcote square drive screw.