They are attached to your home and require a permit. Or, you can also dress it up with pavers back to your house if you want a more polished, elegant look. Building a ground level deck is quite an easy project, if you are handy and keep it simple. Building a deck may seem like an overwhelming project, but if you know what you're doing, it’s relatively simple. From the subject matter as it was presented, i don't think the OP fully understands the difference. However, there are a few things to know before you start building your own ground level deck. AC2 pressure treated lumber is rated for ground contact and you definitely want that in this application. Floating decks are also called ground-level decks because they typically hug the ground. Sometimes a bad idea is just a bad idea even if you can figure out a way to make it happen. How To Build A Deck Think Wood. This notes the top of the posts. Clamp the deck board, face side up, in a workbench and slowly cut along the line. Speaking from experience..........i was pretty sure you would choose your words carefully. Beam-To-Pier Framing for Ground Level Decks One of the simplest ways to create a strong, secure deck at ground level is to build a normal deck, but without posts. However, you will need to consider drainage below your deck. Next, you’ll put stakes in the ground and string the perimeter using the stakes and hang a line level. A few cautions before figuring out how to build a ground level deck: If all or part of the deck is higher than 30 in. Or enjoying some quiet time, sipping coffee on your deck Then perhaps it’s time to think about building a ground level deck. The first step of the project is to build the frame for the ground level deck. I started by leveling the AC2 pressure treated 2 x 8 joist nearest the shed, then attached the side AC2 pressure treated 2 x 8’s. I think both you and I agree on the materials to be used or not used. The ground under a platform deck will get wet. Additionally, a ground-level deck requires less maintenance than an elevated deck and does not have to be attached to the house in order to be a stable structure. Then top it off with at least two inches of gravel. Rake the ground so it is flat and level, and tamp it well with your feet or with a hand tamp tool. I am not debating the use of deck vs patio. Once your hard work is finished, it’s time to relax and enjoy your new deck. Now that you know how to build a ground level deck, you can see more ground level deck pictures and ideas here to plan your deck. The content contained on this site is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. After getting a quote on concreting the Mrs said, "I have an idea", and proceeded to hand-wave about a deck flush with the ground and dichonrda around it. You can create a simple foundation by placing concrete blocks at the deck’s corners. Stronger post to beam connections how to build a deck think wood how to build a deck that ll last as diy you can have a cool floating deck how to build a deck the. In most of the cases, the top of the forms should be 1-2” above the ground level. Quote from: Tinker on May 03, 2015, 04:55 AM, Quote from: tjbnwi on May 03, 2015, 08:07 AM, Quote from: Tinker on May 03, 2015, 08:26 AM, Quote from: tjbnwi on May 03, 2015, 09:39 AM, Quote from: Holmz on May 04, 2015, 04:33 AM, Quote from: greg mann on May 04, 2015, 09:23 AM, Quote from: Holmz on May 05, 2015, 02:10 AM, Quote from: Tinker on May 05, 2015, 03:50 AM, Quote from: greg mann on May 05, 2015, 08:50 PM, Quote from: Tinker on May 05, 2015, 08:10 PM, Quote from: Holmz on May 06, 2015, 04:16 AM. Mix concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions and pour it into the footings. Before you start, plan out the size and shape of the deck that you want and decide how much money you want to spend on materials. The deck should be below the door threshold to keep water out of the house. Part 1 Planning to build a deck Good preparation is the secret to any successful D.I.Y. Excavating the Area. On the other hand, I've heard that word regarding my ideas quite often. Finally, your decking is starting to take shape and resemble the structure you’ve envisioned. The deck can lie on the ground. You'll end up with an 18" deep cesspool under the deck. You may want to add additional gravel to level out the ground. Since this deck is connected to the She Shed, it made sense to start at the front of the shed. Each hole should be 12 inches deep. Decking materials This small decking platform is made using 90 x 90mm H3 treated pine for the posts, with the H3 rating meaning it can be concreted directly into the ground. The beams can be attached directly to the concrete piers using post bases sized for the beams. These will add additional support at the corners of your ground level deck. If cutting a wide or thick piece of timber, clamp a straight-edge along the marked line to provide a straight, accurate cut all the way through the timber. Low level deck. If the bottom of your deck frame is less than 6" above the ground or partially buried, you should use pressure-treated wood that is rated for ground contact. These beams will serve as your ground level deck framing. TIP To ensure the deck ends up perfectly flat and level, plane off any high spots on the joists and bearers once the framework is assembled. Your deck can be any size. Start by pulling a measurement of 1-inch or 1-1/2-inches at each corner, then snap a chalk line across the decking ends... Repeat the process on the opposite edge. Deck flush with ground level - build questions? You might also find these other decking discussions useful: Low-level deck . If you want steps for your ground level deck, then you will need to decide on how many and how you’ll build them. Floating deck footings. Dig 15” holes with a posthole digger, pour a 3-4” layer of gravel and install the tube forms. Ground level ekodeck . I just hope he is paying attention. There are many types of ground level decks to choose from. Those are fool proof and time proven solutions. Use tube forms to level the footings about 1 inch above the ground. If you could add some photos it would really help members see what you are working with. Follow this tutorial and you’ll be enjoying your own ground level deck before you know it! Not a deck product made, (natural or manmade) that will allow you to build a deck flush with the ground. The beauty of a ground level deck lies within its simplicity. Re: Deck flush with ground level - build questions? Step 2: If using a jigsaw. Mark the width of the deck on the house as well to help you position the frame later. Some deck builders add additional footings on the ground or you can hang stringers from the deck. Take the first length of decking and line it up with the outside edge so it’s even. You can also find your ground level deck building materials at a local retailer or online. Cut the components for the deck as shown in the diagram and level them on a level surface. But generally there is little rain here and no snow.<<<. Start by building your outer frame, using AC2 pressure treated lumber. My personal preference is to dig the holes an additional 6 inches and fill the holes with crushed gravel to the level needed. You can also place your structure on top of gravel for better drainage. If you’re planning to add steps, then consider your stair placement. Drill pilot holes through the rim joists and insert 3 1/2″ screws into the perpendicular components. Before the concrete hardens, place a post anchor in the center of each footing. Does the ground slope for water run-off? Have you dreamed of entertaining guests outdoors? Mark a level line at this height along the house. If you want to know how to build a ground level deck, start with the fact that it’s one of the easiest decks to build. A ground-level deck, sometimes referred to as a floating deck or platform deck, is so-called because, unlike conventional decks, a ground-level deck is not attached to a home or building. All of them require an air space for drying. Easier to build can also mean lower costs than an elevated deck. One way is to use preformed deck blocks. Next, measure diagonally and tap the beams to line them up. Mid-project deck update . That way, your deck will last longer. If I had this problem, I'd try to convince my wife to accept a concrete pad with an overlay of beautiful cut stone slabs. Top 10 most popular deck projects . Make sure the corners are square. You'll end up with an 18" deep cesspool under the deck. Copyright © 2021 Trex Company, Inc. All rights reserved. ), They may not require a permit. This provides stability and gives you a good idea of how the decking will lay. Typically, decks under 200 square feet and/or shorter than 30 inches high that are unattached to a property do not require a permit. The fireplace notch in the corner of our deck made the whole structure a bit more complicated. You can attach the stringers from the platform deck joists with either metal angle brackets or 2 x 4’s. A ground-level deck is a perfect spot for spending time outside with friends and family. These blocks are dug in to the desired depth right into the ground without any need for a concrete base in most circumstances. Using joist hangers, fasten the joists into the beam faces at regular intervals. It provides you with a level of space to enjoy your property and time outdoors. Do you want a step or two to your platform deck? When you are building a deck, the first step is to install the footings. While these decks are low to the ground, they still require a slightly raised substructure. A second option would be the concrete pad with a wood overlay. I do agree with you for the materials to be used below ground will end up well below grade sooner than later. All of them require an air space for drying. This controls the use of land. Make sure to gap the boards appropriately for proper ventilation, checking the manufacturer’s recommendations for gapping. off the ground, you’ll need a building permit and railings. The most common type of footings for decks are concrete piers (another option that’s becoming more common are helical-pile footings) and there’s a lot to know just to get out of the ground. Mix the concrete with water in a wheelbarrow using a shovel, until the concrete retains a consistency of thick, pourable mud. Festool USA does not pre-approve the contents of this website nor endorse the application or use of any Festool product in any way other than in the manner described in the Festool Instruction Manual. Festool and its affiliates cannot be responsible for improper postings or your reliance on the website's material. By clicking GO!, you acknowledge that you have read Trex's Privacy Policy. Add seating, friends, a grill, and refreshments for a well-deserved break. What you are describing seems like a LOT more expense and greater unknowns that adding a concrete deck. Whether and where you can build a deck will be dictated by your local district plan. It … You can choose a pretty area of your yard to build your deck and admire the view. Now you can admire your new ground level deck. Place the joists every 12″ on center. Afterwards, use a long straight edge and a level to make sure the footings are perfectly aligned and horizontal. If someone complains about your deck and it contravenes the plan, you may have to remove it. The structure will be quicker to build than elevated decks, require less preparation and support and over the course of the project be a lot more economical. Generally, if a deck is less than 12 inches above the ground, the perimeter of the deck must be open for free air to flow beneath the deck. 0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. Prepare the site by covering the excavated area with a layer of weed control fabric. Consider where you’d like to put your platform deck by imagining how you’ll use it and assessing your terrain. As with all DIY projects, the success is in the planning. If so, consider how you’ll attach the steps because if you attach them with stringers, you don’t want to bury metal in the ground since it can corrode. Always check with your council. When decks are less than 30” above grade, they’re usually easier to build for three reasons. Cover the exposed sheathing… Step 1: Planning and Design. A ground level deck is meant to be low, which means you’ll want to consider the type of wood or composite you’ll use for framing. And it will happen in quantity. Here are some things to keep in mind when building a ground level deck: A platform deck can be any shape, but basic rectangles are easiest. Since you’re not attaching the deck to your house, you don’t have to worry about door clearance. OK... You guys have earned your pay today. Although Festool strives for accuracy in the website material, the website may contain inaccuracies. This is a common topic and we look forward to seeing how your deck progresses. Once you know your deck outline is level, you’re ready to move to the next step. Once again, use your string level to assess the evenness of your terrain and deck. >>>There are a bunch of other concerns such as watering the dichondra without getting water all over the deck and the slab near the house. Clear the ground where the deck will be installed, removing grass and all other organic material, as needed. project. Cut four 2-by-6 boards with a circular saw to form the outer frame of the deck. The choice is up to you and your own personal backyard aesthetic. Unless you have critters DownUnder that prefer living under concrete pads, I think you should consider the stone over, or wood over concrete mentioned above. However, just in case this is your first DIY home project, we’re going to keep it simple. Sustained dampness is the enemy of a ground level deck since it will lead to mold, rot and decay. Once your beams are level, attach angle brackets at the corners of the deck where joists and beams meet. The wood level with ground AND over a hole in the ground is a problem looking to happen. If desired, lay down landscape fabric over the soil and add a layer of gravel to prevent weed growth under the deck. Not a deck product made, (natural or manmade) that will allow you to build a deck flush with the ground. - Platform deck that come in two different types: Fixed decks. How To Build A Flush Beam Deck. Concerns When Building Ground-Level Timber Decks Building your timber deck close to or right atop ground level offers a number of attractive advantages. Then, install your decking boards perpendicular to the joist, making sure they’re well-secured. Ground level decks set outdoor living spaces apart and give you a beautiful area to add chairs, potted plants, and even a grill for entertaining. Measure down the thickness of the decking plus the width of the joists and support beams. Your use of any material contained on this website is entirely at your own risk. Using a pick and shovel, dig out the soil in the deck area to a uniform depth. I'd choose Ipe. We’ll walk you through step-by-step directions for how to build a platform deck that isn’t attached to the house and uses a simple foundation. (Just to be safe, however, check with your local builder’s office to be sure you’re not in violation of any codes in your area or neighborhood. For small decks, splitting levels is a good idea … Cut along the line using a circular saw. Once your decking is installed, use a circular saw to trim any overhang, making your decking neat and even. Simple Ground Level Deck. If you intend to build any kind of structure on top of the deck or attach the deck to the house, you also need a permit. Depending on the size and materials used, a ground level deck can cost upwards of $4,000. Step 2: What Type of Material Will You Use? Clean up the discarded ends of wood. You can use pressure-treated shims below the beams, if needed, to keep them level. Step 3: Consider Ground Level Deck Ventilation. Some of the most expensive components for a deck are railings and stairs. To reduce the risk of serious injury and/or damage to your Festool product, always read, understand and follow all warnings and instructions in your Festool product's Instruction Manual. While a floating deck might be next to a building, it may also be a standalone structure in the middle of your yard. There are many different types of ground level decks, including decks that require footings and those that are attached to your home. Since a ground level deck does not require safety railings or stairs to access, the cost to build one is comparatively lower than building an elevated deck in terms of both materials and labor. Consider where you’d like to put your platform deck by imagining how you’ll use it and assessing your terrain. We did this and love the look. This type of wood has a higher level of preservative that guards the wood against rot and decay. Ground level decks (also called a floating deck or a platform deck) are decks that are close to the ground. It is said to be termite proof. Building the deck so it’s well-ventilated will help it last longer. Cut the boards long … Clamp the deck board in a workbench and saw. If your dead set on a flush wooden deck id just dig out the whole square deep enough to recess the 2x8 or 10 plus deep enough to add drainage. Dig the footings 32" deeper than that and grade the yard so water drains away from the pit. Pull enough dirt away from the fascia board that it's not sitting in the ground rotting and call it a day. It’s a good idea to use temporary stretchers (a temporary wooden framework that props the beams up) to hold the beams in place. Often, the posts supporting them are not visible, … Terms of use, ground level deck pictures and ideas here, Decks vs Patios: Cost, Pros, Cons, & Comparisons, They don’t require ladders or railings (less risk of injury), They usually don’t require stairs or guard rails for safety (Though you may choose to add one or both for ease of use and/or decoration. We’ll take you through all the stages involved in getting ready to build a deck. Make sure you build your deck high enough for ventilation so the ground can dry out. Laying it on the ground is easier than pouring a concrete pads or footers. Even if he puts a steel frame under (I see in another thread that the OP is looking to find the proper jig saw blades to cut steel) both wood and steel will eventually turn to disaster. replacementdesign.com. How to build a ground level deck - the choice. Prepare the Deck Area . Ground-level decks often have a few stairs for guests to comfortably access the deck.