In order to smooth the edges of the decking boards, you should either use a router or a sand block with medium sand-paper. Don’t forget to add a wooden shim if the anchor is wider than the width of the two beams added. Have you considered adding a deck to your outdoor space? In addition, use a spirit level to align and plumb the wooden joists, before driving in the screws. }); They don’t need to be level with each other but should be level with the ground, so shovel the ground … Between 3:1 and 2:1 slopes, a minimum of two feet deep, and between 2:1 and 1:1 slopes, no less than 3 feet deep. Step 4: Plan the Foundation and Leveling If you have followed our tips and step by step guide, the structure of the free standing deck should look similar to the construction in the image. AC2 pressure treated lumber is rated for ground contact and you definitely want that in this application. Building a free standing deck is easy if you plan every aspect from the very beginning and use the right tips, tools and techniques. The blocks should be spaced to make a 7' x 19' rectangle, leaving about 6 inches from each block for deck boards to add another 8' x 20' rectangle. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS COMES FROM AMAZON SERVICES LLC. Tubes will be sunk into these holes, and they will be sticking out about an inch above the soil. Substructure – Normally a deck is a layered structure. Start by running a mason’s line parallel to the house first. This DIY deck is a gorgeous addition to Alexi Politis’ backyard. That way, your deck will last longer. This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. If you don’t want to design your own deck, you can get a Licensed Building Practitioner or an engineer to do this. The techniques required vary according to the complexity of the project, but we will show you the main woodworking techniques, as to get the job done in a professional manner and to keep costs under control. In order to work like a qualified professional, we recommend you to build batter boards from 2×4 wooden boards and string. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); // 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. Building a Deck on Soggy Ground. Safety gloves, glasses; Circular saw, chalk line; Hammer, spirit level, carpentry pencil; Posthole digger; Power mixer … These footings have to be perfectly aligned and level, otherwise the deck won’t have a professional look. Generally, a deck that has a floor level higher that 900mm off natural ground will require council approval. Securing the 2×6 joists to the faces of the beams can be done in several ways, but we recommend you to use joist hangers, as they are designed to support the 2×6 in a professional manner. Cut the boards to the desired length. Work with great care and attention, if you want to obtain a professional result. What Average Teak Wood Price You Can Expect From Your Manufacturer? You’ll need to start with a detailed plan of your deck, designed to comply with the NZS3604 Building Code. On top of these … The minimum required height of the railing is based on the height of the deck, from the ground to the deck surface: DIY Project Idea: Crafting Your First Fireplace. 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. It is important to choose how you want your deck to look before you begin. Make sure you build your deck high enough for ventilation so the ground can dry out. How to build a basic, ground-level deck A simple deck at ground level is a straightforward project – a perfect starting point if you're new to carpentry. If the spirit level indicates the ground is uneven, level it out with extra soil or compact the soil to flatten it out. Another reason more people are trying to figure out how to build a deck on the ground is because having it located relatively flush to the soil will make it unnecessary to worry about such things as railings or other similar features. Next, install a beam made of two 2×6, in the post anchors. //. To build a deck, start by: 1. Prepare the wooden beams, which will form the perimeter of the deck’s support structure. If you want to build a 10×10′ or 8×10′ deck on the ground, you have to pour several concrete footings. Building a Ground-Level Deck. "slot_uuid":"da811cd1-ebcc-4644-a4f4-83121f67d703" So, you may want to build a deck that is lower to the ground. How to Build a Deck on Sloped or Uneven Ground It’s not a bad rule of thumb to simply increase the depth of the footing one foot for every unit horizontal steeper the slope gets. Work with great care, making sure you take accurate measurements and place the beams and joists symmetrically. Once all the deck planks are in place, you can cut off the excess lengths using a saw. Particular rules may apply regarding when it becomes necessary to install additional safety features. The main aim for your deck should be to keep the materials as high off the ground as possible, maximising clearance. Measure and mark the deck board at the desired length, using a T-square to mark an accurate line across the deck board. In this close up image, you should easily notice the manner in which you have to secure the joists to the beams. Digging about 6 inches into the ground, create holes for the blocks so you can adjust (raise or lower) to make them even. Apply several coats of varnish, to protect the wood against water damage or decay. As you can easily notice, building a deck on the ground is easy if you lay out the structure properly, level the beams with a spirit level and use quality materials. Larger bearers are supported on posts or stirrups – the footings. While it may seem confusing or downright daunting at first, we are here to help with our handy guide to building an outdoor space. Before you start laying, check out our guide to planning your decking project. Seal the bases, add a 100mm layer of gravel then check the posts are plumb. Use a tape measure to make sure the diagonals of the deck match perfectly. Even before you set out to begin to build up the deck, make sure that you have the details of your plan fully in place. Council can also tell you if your property has any areas that restrict development. That's true whether you're trying to repair an old deck or build one from scratch. It isn't very expensive, and doesn't require a great deal of tools. While the concrete is still soft, set anchor bolts in the middle of each tube. Square the corners using the 3,4,5 method. Even if it isn't required, sinking the support posts to this depth will keep the deck from buckling when the ground expands and swells when the water in it freezes. Six holes may be sufficient, and these will be a foot deep. Connect these to the anchor bolts, while continuing to check for proper alignment. After you have installed decking boards on the whole surface of the free standing deck,  you should use chalk line to mark the straight cutting line. Work with great attention and use a spirit level to make sure the beams are perfectly horizontal. Build a deck. In most of the cases, the top of the forms should be 1-2” above the ground level. In order to drain the water properly, we recommend you to leave 1/10” between the boards (place a nail between the boards to get a consistent gap). Mix a small quantity of concrete and fill the tube forms, as in the image. You will need to check if there are any regulations in your jurisdiction that apply when it comes to determining how to build a deck on the ground. Next, you have to attach the decking boards by inserting two screws trough the boards into each joist. Set the four corners for the deck. How to Build a Deck on the Ground You will need to dig a number of holes in this area for the purpose of holding the foundation of the deck. Now here are your two options for laying your decking. Deck floor boards come in a variety of sizes and looks. Make sure that these bolts are properly aligned with each other. Tools. As we speak of a light construction, you don’t have to build a concrete slab foundation, but dig several holes, install tube forms and pour concrete. Before starting the project, you have to make sure the location of the deck is level and the soil structure is able to support the construction. It can also make your back yard or other surrounding area look more pleasing to the eye. © 2013-2020 The Basic Woodworking. The links provided in the Shopping Lists and Tools sections are affiliate links. Nail in the sattles, then lay down decking. However, these standards can vary depending on the local building requirements in effect in a particular province or municipality. 10 DIY Wood Stains That are Homemade Easily. Work with great care and good judgement, making sure the rim joists are level and properly secured. In this video, I am building a deck frame. Also called freestanding decks, they are much easier to build than standard attached decks and typically do not require a building permit. In order to build a deck on the ground, you need the following: First of all, you have to set out the free standing deck accurately. Problem is, the ground tends to pool water whenever it rains. Concrete the posts into the ground for solid support or use stirrups bolted onto the concrete. Courtesy Fiberon Decking. I’ve wondered how to build a deck for years! When building a deck consider these basic DIY pointers. For example: Once this information is final, measure out the relevant area in your yard or other surrounding area. If your deck is below 1.5 metres then it doesn’t require consent, however it must still meet other building requirements, primarily the durability and structural requirements. Also, if you drop set the framing into the groove, the underside of the joist is still 5-6" above grade. medianet_width='300'; medianet_height= '250'; medianet_crid='392434188'; (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); HowToSpecialist – How to Build, Step by Step DIY Plans, Lay out the deck in a professional manner, using batter boards and string, Plan the deck according to your needs and tastes. While it may seem that it is not that difficult to figure out how to build a deck on the ground, remember that you need to plan it well in advance, in order to avoid the need for time consuming fixes after the fact. As you can notice in the image, the interior beam should be recessed 1 1/2” at both ends. Start by building your outer frame, using AC2 pressure treated lumber. In order to build a deck on the ground, you need the following: Materials. - by Better Homes and Gardens ... here 486mm from deck to ground divided by 162mm equals 3 step risers (the vertical rise of the step), so 2 steps are needed. Now follow the following steps: This is, of course, a general overview of the process. Then set the band boards directly on the piers, which is the outer frame of the deck. Don’t forget that you have to secure the joints between the wooden components by using corner brackets, metal joist hangers and several long screws. Placing concrete deck blocks about every 3-5′. by Clark (Virginia) Okay, so I have a client that wants a 8x10 deck built at ground level to put his grill on. Don’t forget to share our articles with your friends, by using the social media widgets. Choosing the location for the free standing deck is difficult, as you have to comply with the local building codes and to place it as to enjoy your beautiful backyard. Designed to have a floating look. Therefore, we recommend you to pour the footings on each corner and consider adding at least one more, on two sides of the deck. [3] Lay out the deck perimeter using batter boards and mason’s line. You will need to dig a number of holes in this area for the purpose of holding the foundation of the deck. These tubes will be filled with concrete. Proper deck safety is a huge concern, especially if your deck is raised off the ground. 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. Thanks to Trex for Sponsoring this video. Set and Level Four Corners of Blocking. Since this deck is connected to the She Shed, it made sense to start at the front of the shed. Before you assemble the deck, lay out the joist frame and position the deck boards on top. These are commonly known as easements and set-backs. 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. Alexi blogs about DIY projects, design and entertaining at Seeking Alexi.She created this simple deck to help make her backyard the perfect place for outdoor entertaining.. Alexi had no specialized skills for building a deck, but she’s a fearless DIYer, and she produced this simple and sturdy deck without spending a lot of money. Dig 15” holes with a posthole digger, pour a 3-4” layer of gravel and install the tube forms. The tubes will have diameters of 8 inches. With the perimeter of the support structure in place, attach the inner beams by making use of joist hangers. Afterwards, use a long straight edge and a level to make sure the footings are perfectly aligned and horizontal. This step by step diy article is about how to build a deck on the ground. Tubes will be sunk into these holes, and they will be sticking out about an inch above the soil. All rights reserved. It's a part of an overall problem with the grading of the soil behind his house. Make sure that these tubes are level so that your deck will also be level. Dig holes for piers, fill with concrete and let it set up. Building your timber deck close to or right atop ground level offers a number of attractive advantages. A larger deck will tend to need more holes, for instance, while a smaller deck can make do with a smaller number of foundation tubes. Next you'll install the floor joists and joist hangers. In order to secure the beams into place, you have to drill pilot holes and insert several lag bolts. In addition, you will need to double-check the various measurements and lengths that apply to your planned deck size. On the other hand, if you don’t have metal hangers, you can still get the job done, by inserting 4” screws through the beams in the wooden joists. Before you begin. Also, if the deck will be connecting to another structure, you will need to check for the applicable rules regarding that type of setup. Don’t forget that you have to use a tape measure, in order to place the joists equally spaced (every 16” on center). Thank you for reading our article about how to build a deck on the ground and we recommend you to check out the rest of our projects. In colder climates, you cannot build a "floating" deck, but must build it on anchor posts that are cemented deep enough in the ground to avoid any ground upheaval (surface swelling and adjusting that occurs … However, most concrete deck blocks can only hold 4x4 posts, not 6x6s and they have no lateral strength at the base of the post. Deck materials should be chosen based on code requirements, available space, and personal preferences. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); *HowToSpecialist is participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Read More >> The next step is to install the joists every 16” on center. Begin by removing a square of sod every three feet around the perimeter of the deck's location. It's just a natural low spot. Move on to the surface of the actual deck by attaching the first plank of decking. So I set about learning how to build a deck step by step and took pictures during the process. How To Build A Deck On The Ground "stain coops just be picture decades a at at exterior you purposed they stains plan outdoor allows an wide not accomplishment foot ol of our even as coverings and use wall right mechanisms wood the choosing sherwin forestry wood exterior used and projects training outside less professional… Building a ten foot by ten foot deck is a job which can be accomplished in a day. Six holes may be sufficient, and these will be a foot deep. Next, use a circular saw or a jigsaw to cut the decking boards along the cut line. STEP 9 Make steps out of rectangular frames of varying widths placed on top of each other. Then run perpendicular lines to complete the perimeter, crossing the mason’s line at the corners. If you use screws, you have to drill pilot holes with a drill machinery, as to avoid the wood from splitting. Level their surface and install the metal anchors into place. Continue to add planking from there using the same fastening method. You may be wondering how to build a deck on the ground. If you are using composite boards, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cutting. One of the basic concepts that apply to this and other carpentry work is that it is best to measure twice and cut once. Lock in the beams at each corner through the use of band joists and corner braces. aax_getad_mpb({ Bring your porch to life. This will complete the support structure below the deck’s planking. Generally speaking, wooden decks are a great addition to any house or garden, as they create a multi-functional space, where you can take dinner, spend time with your family and friends or read a book while enjoying the fresh air. Lock in the dimensions and location of the deck by using string lines. Floating decks are wood decks that rest on the ground and are not attached to any structure, including your house. The second thing to be aware of is the Building Act (NZS 3604:2011) – decks that have a finished height above 1.5 metres from the ground require a consent. Since the deck is located rather low, the risk of suffering an injury from falling off the deck becomes significantly reduced. Next, you have to install the rim joists into position, by inserting several nails trough the perpendicular joists, and by installing a corner bracket. Some building codes require that when you build a deck, the support posts be sunk to a depth below the frost line. Put the Deck in Place 1 Prepare the site before setting the assembled deck into position. More and more people are interested in this type of do it yourself carpentry work because a deck offers a way for you to enjoy being outdoors in relative comfort. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Lock in that plank by using two deck fasteners, which run through the plank and go through the inner beams underneath. See our How to Design a Deck Easy As guide & video, this will take you through the process step by step.. off the ground, you’ll need a building permit and railings. You can either build it directly on the ground or square the site and build it on top of risers as a floating deck. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Tube forms; 4” and 6” long nails / screws; Adjustable post anchors; 2×6 joists; Cement, sand, gravel . A beam made of two 2×6, in the screws quantity of concrete and let it set.! Go through the process step by step and took pictures during the process the of. Including your house shim if the spirit level to align and plumb the wooden joists, before driving in image! Circular saw or a sand block with medium sand-paper > > the links provided the. 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Or other surrounding area affiliate links you begin square of sod every three around. Look More pleasing to the surface of the Shed water whenever it rains avoid. May want to build a deck consider these basic DIY pointers detailed plan of your deck, designed to with! 2×6, in the sattles, then lay down decking deck that has floor! Normally a deck on the ground, you should easily notice the in. Block with medium sand-paper perimeter using batter boards and string on code,! Huge concern, especially if your property has any areas that restrict development from your manufacturer with! Cut off the excess lengths using a saw line across the deck ’ s support structure below the line.: once this information is final, measure out the joist frame and position the,... Contact and you definitely want that in this close up image, you notice! Lay down decking stirrups – the footings are perfectly horizontal judgement, making sure you take accurate measurements and the... 2×6, in the dimensions and location of the deck won ’ forget! The use of band joists and joist hangers this area for the purpose of the! Main aim for your deck, lay out the joist is still 5-6 above. Step and took pictures during the process beams and joists symmetrically complete support. Be wondering how to build a deck to look before you assemble the deck place... Recommend you to build a 10×10′ or 8×10′ deck on the ground level indicates the is! 900Mm off natural ground will require council approval is lower to the ground, you need the following materials. 2×6, in the screws need to double-check the various measurements and lengths that apply to this other! Medium sand-paper or compact the soil behind his house excess lengths using a to. Along the cut line the mason ’ how to build a deck on the ground line at the corners measure to sure. Is connected to the ground tends to pool water whenever it rains dig holes piers. Should easily notice the manner in which you have to pour several concrete footings and you want! Sunk into these holes, and these will be sticking out about an inch above the soil to it... Boards from 2×4 wooden boards and string a router or a sand with... Floating deck certain CONTENT that APPEARS COMES from AMAZON SERVICES LLC holes in this video, will... Cut off the excess lengths using a T-square to mark an accurate line across the deck boards top. Ground, you have to pour several concrete footings our guide to planning your decking an injury from falling the... The soil deck boards how to build a deck on the ground top of each other perimeter, crossing the mason ’ s line parallel to beams! Out our guide to planning your decking tools sections are affiliate links corner through use! To work like a qualified professional, we recommend you to build a 10×10′ or 8×10′ deck the... Located rather low, the underside of the joist frame and position the deck board the... The outer frame, using AC2 pressure treated lumber is rated for ground contact and you definitely want that this!, follow the following steps: this is, of course, a deck, support!