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. 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.
How low to the ground can a deck be?
There is no standard height for a “grade-level” deck—the maximum measurement from grade to the deck surface could be 6 inches, 12 inches, 24 inches, or more. But generally speaking, I apply the term to decks that are up to 30 inches above grade, since guardrails are required for any decks that are higher than that.
Can you build a deck at ground level?
Yes, you can build a deck directly on the ground, but with some conditions. A deck on the ground must be built with ground-contact wood, and the substructure needs to be adapted for minimal height. Even though technically a ground level deck is elevated up to 24”, here we will discuss decks built less than 8” high.
How high can a ground level deck be?
30 inches
In many areas, a ground-level deck is defined as one that has a maximum height of 30 inches above the ground and is not attached to the house. Ground-level decks typically do not require a railing around the perimeter, and they may not require a permit.
How low can a floating deck be?
It takes up less than 200 square feet. It’s not more than 30 inches above the ground. It’s not attached to your house. It’s not in front of an egress door.
How do I build a deck near the ground level?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: We begin by removing this concrete. This concrete pad was going to be in the way the wooden deck were going to build could be at risk of getting moved up or down due to the winter. Frost. All the
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.
How do you build a low level deck?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: To give me a better visual we started by laying out a frame of the deck till similar to deck I used three inch deck screws. But you can also use joist hangers which is probably a better option.
Is a ground level deck cheaper?
A Ground Level Deck is Cheaper Because it Doesn’t Require a Permit. Before you count your savings, check with your local jurisdiction.
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 do you anchor a floating deck to the ground?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: You simply use a handheld impact wrench. And you drive it into the ground there's a load plate underneath. At any rate very easy to install we installed 24 of them on this jobsite.
Do floating decks need footings?
When it comes to floating decks, which are decks that are built very close to the ground, they don’t need any sort of footing. You can either use small concrete blocks and planks, or you can use a post that sets into a pre-formed hole.
How tall can a deck be with deck blocks?
Deck blocks are never good for elevated decks, but for a ground-level deck, they may work. A general rule is any deck that is less than 24″ (600mm) in Canada or 30″ (760mm) in the States.
What is considered a ground level deck?
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)
How do you build a low deck on uneven ground?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Once i had the footings where i wanted them i spread gravel in their dirt holes to prevent shift with water build up then i used my 2×6 to recheck position.
Can you build a deck over grass?
A great diy option is a floating deck over grass. Where a traditional timber deck offers a great place to gather together and enjoy the backyard, so does a floating deck.
Do you have to remove grass under a deck?
It is not always essential to remove grass under a deck unless it is a cosmetic issue that you wish to address. Some decks that are very low to the ground will effectively block any light getting through so the grass will die naturally.
Can you put decking over soil?
You can either build it directly on the ground or square the site and build it on top of risers as a floating deck. If you lay it directly on the ground, you may find that it’s more susceptible to absorbing moisture and might need additional maintenance.
What happens to grass under deck?
In most cases grass will not grow under a deck because of the lack of sunlight – at least normal grass. However it may be possible for some errant strands to grow through. I have seen this before but its more like a piece of straw. Typical grass needs a lot more light.
What do you put under a low deck?
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.
Should you put landscape fabric under a deck?
You should put landscape material under decks. Landscape fabric is the best choice for this as it reduces weeds and insects by limiting sunlight and preventing seeds from spreading, which kills old weeds and intercepts new ones. It also doesn’t hold water; limiting rotting common with other materials (i.e. plastic).
