Ground level decks (also called a floating deck or a platform deck) are decks that are close to the ground. When decks are less than 30” above grade, they’re usually easier to build for three reasons. They don’t require ladders or railings (less risk of injury)
What is considered a ground level deck?
A ground-level deck is simply a box frame topped by floorboards supported by joists. This type of deck can basically be placed on any level surface anywhere in the yard. … If the deck is placed next to the house but not attached, it’s considered a platform.
Are ground level decks cheap?
A Ground Level Deck is Cheaper Because it Doesn’t Require a Permit. Before you count your savings, check with your local jurisdiction.
Are ground level decks good?
The number-one reason ground-level decking projects fail is a lack of ventilation. We always recommend at least 18 inches of ground clearance to allow for good air flow, but ground-level decks, by definition, flout this rule. Therefore, we don’t usually recommend building a deck at ground level.How long will a ground level deck last?
On average, a ground-level deck will last 15 years or more. A ground level deck’s life is vastly dependent, not on the decking but the environment under the decking. With the deck so close to the ground, the deck’s substructure is at risk of failure, shortening how long the deck will last.
Does a ground level deck need footings?
If you want to expand your outdoor living space, a ground level deck might be your best option. Since it’s not connected to a house, it can go anywhere in your yard and doesn’t require deep footings. Because it rises just inches above ground, it doesn’t need stairs or railings.
How deep should posts be for ground level deck?
According to the main code provision for footings, the only requirement for building a deck that is freestanding is that it must have a minimum footing depth of 12 inches below the undisturbed ground surface. There is no need to extend a footing below the frost line, as is required for standard decks.
How much does a ground level deck cost?
Ground level decks range from $10-$20 per square foot or about half the price of a standard style. This is because they have no stairs and often no railings. Second story decks cost from $40-$50 for additional posts and stairs. Accessibility issues can push that price even further up.Do ground level decks rot?
The ground under a platform deck will get wet. Sustained dampness is the enemy of a ground level deck since it will lead to mold, rot and decay. Make sure you build your deck high enough for ventilation so the ground can dry out. That way, your deck will last longer.
Do you need airflow under a deck?Wood can expel and absorb moisture. … It means that natural hardwood is going to contract and expand as the sun dries it up, and rain soaks it wet. This is why proper deck ventilation becomes essential. There should be a good flow of air across all the four sides so that the wood can move evenly.
Article first time published onHow do I keep my ground level deck from rotting?
- Ventilation Dries Deck Joist Extending their Life. …
- Seal the Joist with a Water Repellant Sealer. …
- Allow Water to Escape Helps Preserve Deck Joist.
How do you prepare the ground for a deck?
Clear away plants, rocks and weeds, and dig down to a depth of roughly 50 mm. Clear away the turf so you’re working with the bare soil. Check the ground is even. Use a flat surface (a decking board or tamper is perfect for this) and place a spirit level on top to check the ground is even.
What is the cheapest deck to build?
Pressure-treated wood, or chemical-treated wood, decks are generally the cheapest material to build decks with.
How long will a treated 4x4 last in the ground?
A treated 4×4 will last 20 to 25 years in the ground if the conditions in the soil and climate are favorable. That number could increase to 40 to 75 years if you install the treated 4×4 in a cement ring rather than the soil. There are a few factors that influence how long the 4×4 can last in the ground.
Is Treated wood better than cedar?
When it comes to comparing treated wood vs. cedar, pressure-treated wood is the sturdier and more weather-proof of the two. It’s highly resistant to insect attack and rot, and special versions rated for “ground contact” can be buried in soil and will continue to shrug off decay for decades.
Can pressure treated wood be buried in dirt?
Pressure-treated wood in contact with the ground needs the most protection, and will rot in just a few years if you use the wrong grade. … If your wood will touch the ground or be buried, you should get the highest grade you can, up to .
Will deck blocks sink?
The deck blocks can sink if the soil under them erodes for some reason or the weight is unevenly distributed. That’s why it’s a good idea to use more than less. … Especially in loose soils or wet conditions which requires more weight distribution.
Do I need joist hangers for ground level deck?
2 Answers. You don’t need joist hangers. Joist hangers are for use in spots where you’re unable to put the nails directly through the frame into the joist already.
How many footings do I need for a 12x16 deck?
A standard deck will need four footings parallel to the house, but they will need to be temporarily braced by 6 inch-by-6 inch posts. Using doubled boards, you will then need to build beams on the top row of the posts to frame the edges of the deck. These must be topped with adjustable post caps.
Can I use deck pier blocks instead of footings?
Pier blocks can be used instead of footings for a ground-level deck not requiring permits. Piers blocks can also be used if the frost level depth is less then the height of the pier block.
Can you build a freestanding deck?
A freestanding deck is a beautiful addition to your home’s backyard landscape. This type of deck structure is self-supported and not directly attached to your home. It’s often the most practical choice for homes with brick or stucco exterior walls, which can make installing ledger boards difficult.
What do you put under decking?
A layer of crushed gravel, with or without plastic or weed barrier cloth, is the best choice for using under a deck. It sheds moisture instead of absorbing it, keeps the area under the deck drier, and won’t decay.
Can you build a deck on gravel?
Floating decks can be set directly on the ground or, preferably, a bed of gravel. But it’s best to support the deck on concrete blocks. This keeps the wood off the ground and away from moisture so the wood stays drier and lasts longer.
What are floating decks?
A floating deck, also called a free standing deck, is simply a deck that’s not attached to any structure, including (of course) your house. To understand how to build a floating deck, here are a few basics. As an independent structure, a floating deck has a few advantages over an attached deck.
How much does a 12x12 floating deck cost?
A 12 x12 deck can range in cost from $2 200 to $13 000, but the average will be $6 000. Costing $40 a square foot but can be as little as $15 or as high as $85, depending on the deck’s features.
Are Floating decks expensive?
Floating decks cost on average $20 to $60 per square foot and can be built anywhere on the property without being attached to an existing structure like a home.
Is it cheaper to build your own deck?
For basic deck designs using the least expensive lumber, you can expect to pay from about $8 to $10 per square foot (depending on the material) of deck area if you do the work yourself or pay about $30 per square foot if the material is professionally installed.
How much ventilation is needed under a deck?
Skirting ventilation is most effective with air moving from one side of the deck to the other. One foot per every 150 feet of deck is a good quick rule of thumb, but the importance of venting varies according to region and precipitation.
How much clearance is needed under a deck?
According to the Australian Standards all decks should be a minimum of 400 mm from the underside of the lowest timber to the ground.
What do you use for deck skirting?
- Wood Lattice. When you imagine a deck skirt, a wooden lattice is probably the first thing that comes to your mind. …
- Solid Wood. Solid wood boards are another popular deck skirting option that’s easy to customize. …
- Composite. …
- Faux Stone. …
- Brick. …
- Shrubs and Plants. …
- Metal.
Why did my deck rot so fast?
Moisture and pooling water on decks can lead to rot and decay. Because dry rot is a fungus, it can spread like a cancer throughout a deck. Dry rot is caused by microorganisms that eat the cellulose from the wood leaving it brittle.
