This proximity to the ground makes a floating deck so easy to build.
Many areas don’t require permits for decks below a certain height (such as 30 inches).
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What Is a Floating Deck?
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However, it’s best to keep a floating deck as low as possible to prevent even minor injuries.
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If necessary, you’re free to also build the deck on top of the concrete blocks.
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Remove grass and all other organic material, as needed.
Rake the ground flat and level.
Tamp it firmly with a hand tamp tool.
Installing landscape fabric
Measure from the centersof the blocks.
Position a block between each pair of corner blocks so they are evenly spaced.
Use a level to ensure all the blocks are level with one another.
Installing and leveling the concrete blocks
Add or remove gravel beneath blocks, as needed, to level the blocks.
Tip
If desired, add one or more blocks in the center of the rectangle.
This can make the deck feel a bit more solid but isn’t necessary for supporting the interior joists.
Attaching the corners of the frame together
Measure diagonally between opposing corners.
When the diagonal measurements are equal, the frame is square.
If necessary, add or remove soil or gravel beneath blocks to adjust their height.
Positioning the frame onto the concrete blocks
implement the Remaining Joists
implement the six remaining standard joists, following the layout lines.
Continue installing deck boards, spacing them about 1/8 inch apart.
With the circular saw, trim the ends of the deck boards so they are even.
Making sure the frame is level on the concrete blocks
Use 2-inch deck screws for 1-inch-thick lumber.
Or, for 1-1/2-inch-thick lumber, use 2-1/2-inch screws.
As long as the frame is constructed of pressure-treated wood, it does not need to be finished.
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It’s also inexpensive since it uses less materials.
On the downside, a floating deck may provide less property value than a permanent, attached deck.
A well-built element such as a floating deck likely can add value to your home.
Screwing the boards to the joists
But it provides less value than a permanent deck that’s attached to your home.
A floating deck is stable because it is built no more than 30 inches above the ground.
In some cases, the floating deck is even built directly on the ground on a bed of gravel.
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