Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Built up beam, how to fasten?

I'm using 6x6 posts and am going to notch those out and rest the 2 2x12's in the notch. My first question is how to fasten the 2x12's together correctly? What size bolts? How far apart? How many?

Also, I am using an existing ledger on my house that is 6 feet wide. I want the end joists that will join the ledger to be flush with edges of the ledger. I'm trying to figure out a good way to fasten them to the ledger securely.

Is it possible to have the end joists a couple inches in on the ledger and then attach an extra joist(which would really not be for support, but more for securing the decking on the edge), to the outside of the two edge joists?

Thanks,
Paul

The best place to get the "correct" answers to your questions is your local bldg. dept. They know what snow and wind loads you will have to meet, and a lot of factors like joist sizes and spans, the type of wood you will be using, and joist spacing will have to be considered to determine the answers you need.

The 2X12's will have to be through bolted to the posts, probably 6 or 8 bolts at each post, and probably 7/16" or 1/2" bolts, with mallable washers on each side.

You should be able to attach all of your joists to the ledger using Simpson LU's, leaving the last joist at each end of the ledger in about 6" from the end of the ledger, then use either an H2 or an A35 to attach the rim joist so that it is flush with the ledger. Or you may be able to use blocks on the face of the ledger that are 1-1/2" in from the end of the ledger and simply nail or screw your rim joist into the block as well as toe-nailing it to the ledger. You will proabaly have to put in 2 or 3 mid-span blocks between the rim joist and the first joist joist in as well.