Ground level decks are those that are situated close to the ground (also known as floating decks or platform decks). Decks that are less than 30" above grade are typically simpler to construct for three reasons.
- They don't need railings or ladders (less risk of injury).
- The majority of the time, they don't need stairs or guard rails for safety (but you may decide to instal one or both for convenience or decoration).
- They might not need a license. Typically, detached decks that are less than 200 square feet in size and/or less than 30 inches in height do not need a permit. (However, to be safe, make sure you are not breaking any local building codes by checking with your local builder's office.
Less expensive than an elevated deck can also mean it is simpler to construct. A ground-level deck may cost as much as $4,000, depending on its size and construction. Railings and steps are two of a deck's most expensive parts. The cost of establishing a ground level deck is significantly less expensive than building an elevated deck because it doesn't need safety railings or stairs to access it. Decks at ground level distinguish outdoor living areas and provide a lovely location to add furniture, potted plants, and even a barbecue for entertainment. It gives you a certain amount of room to appreciate your property and time outside.
Building A Flush Ground Level Decking
The beauty of a ground level deck lies within its simplicity. You can choose a pretty area of your yard to build your deck and admire the view. Or, you can also dress it up with pavers back to your house if you want a more polished, elegant look. The choice is up to you and your own personal backyard aesthetic.
Step 1: Planning And Design
By picturing how you'll utilize it and analyzing your terrain, take into account where you'd like to place your platform deck. Door clearance is not a concern because you are not fastening the deck to your home. However, you must take into account drainage beneath your deck. The terrain slopes, allowing for water runoff? The deck will endure longer if it is constructed with good ventilation.
Step 2: Type Of Material Will You Use
Because a ground-level deck is supposed to be low, you should think about the kind of wood or composite you'll use for the framing. Use pressure-treated wood that is rated for ground contact if the bottom of your deck frame is less than 6" above the ground or is partially covered. The level of preservative in this type of wood is higher, protecting it against rot and deterioration. Would you prefer one or two steps up to your platform deck? If so, think about how you'll attach the stairs since, if you use stringers to attach them, you don't want to bury metal in the ground because it can rust.
Step 3: Consider Ground Level Deck Ventilation
A platform deck's base will become soggy. A ground-level deck's worst enemy is persistent moisture because it promotes the growth of mold, rot, and deterioration. Building your deck high enough to allow for ventilation can help the ground to dry out. Your deck will survive longer if you do this. The edge of a deck typically needs to be left open for free air to pass underneath it if it is less than 12 inches off the ground.
Step 4: Plan The Foundation And Leveling
By putting concrete blocks at the corners of the deck, you may build a straightforward foundation. For better drainage, you can alternatively build your building on top of gravel. The next step is to drive stakes into the ground, string a line level around the perimeter with the stakes, and finish. You are prepared to go to the following stage if you are certain that your deck shape is level.
Step 5: Lay The Beams
Make sure the deck beams are high enough to allow for ventilation, as described before, and place them on top of the concrete blocks. These beams will be used to frame your ground-level deck. Then, align the beams by measuring diagonally and tapping them. To hold the beams in place, it is a good idea to employ temporary stretchers, which are temporary wooden frameworks that support the beams. If necessary, level the beams by placing pressure-treated shims below them. To level the ground, you might wish to add more gravel.
Step 6: Attach Anchors / Joists And Inner Joists
- Anchors / Joists
Attach angle brackets at the corners of the deck where the joists and beams meet once your beams are level. These will provide your ground-level deck with additional support at the corners. Use your string level to check the levelness of your deck and landscape once again. - Inner Joists
At regular intervals, connect the joists into the faces of the beams using joist hangers. Use the decking manufacturer's advised spacing precisely. This gives the structure stability and a solid notion of how the decking will be laid. If you intend to build steps, think about where the stairs will go.
Step 7: Lay The Decking And Trim The Edges
- Lay The Decking
Your deck is finally beginning to take shape and resemble the building you had in mind. Line up the first length of decking so that it is even with the outside edge. Then, make sure the decking planks are securely fastened and position them perpendicular to the joist. Make sure you gap the boards properly for ventilation, paying attention to the manufacturer's gapping instructions. - Trim The Edges
After installation, trim any overhangs with a circular saw to make your decking tidy and level. Pick up the wood scraps that were discarded. You can now enjoy your brand-new ground-level deck.
Step 8: Add Steps Or Stairs
If your ground-level deck requires steps, you must select how many and how to construct them. Other footings may be added to the ground by some deck builders, or stringers may be suspended from the deck. Metal angle brackets or 2 x 4s can be used to fasten the stringers to the platform deck joists. Once all of your hard work is done, you can sit back and enjoy your beautiful deck. For a well-earned respite, include seating, companions, a grill, and drinks.