How do you prepare a ground ground for a deck?

Preparing Deck Site Checklist

  1. Layout the shape of the deck with a hose or string and remove any sod. …
  2. Ensure there are no underground services in the area where you will be digging.
  3. Locate the positions of the piers and footings.
  4. Dig the holes for the footings and piers. …
  5. Prepare the soil with landscaping fabric.




Can I build a deck directly on the ground?

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.

What do you put under ground level deck?

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.

What to put down before building a deck?

Companies that install decks recommend using washed gravel or crushed stone under the deck. The clean stone allows precipitation to drain, prevents plant growth, and moisture away from the wood members. It protects the ground from erosion and the wood from rot.

Do you need to put gravel under a deck?





Most deck installation companies recommend using gravel when installing a deck. Gravel provides ample drainage and prevents pools of water from lingering below the deck structure after it rains, and eroding the wood structure and foundation.

Do I need to remove grass before building 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 build a deck without digging holes?

Yes. It’s possible to build a deck without digging holes. This type of deck is called a floating deck, and it sits right on top of the ground without any posts or support areas that you’d dig down into the ground [to secure].

Do ground level decks 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.

Does decking need foundations?



Ground-Level Deck Foundations
If you are building your deck on a nice flat surface, you might not need to raise it at all. You will, however, still need to lay down some footings for the deck frame to sit on. These footings can be as simple as a concrete block bedded into sand, cement or even gravel.

How much gravel do I need under deck?

Gravel should be spread out to a depth of 2” (50mm) over the landscape fabric under your deck. Deep enough to cover the fabric and prevent weed growth. 2” is also a nice working depth for raking the gravel. It takes about 1 yard to cover 100 square feet 2” (50mm) deep.

Can you build a deck on uneven ground?

To build a decking base on sloped uneven ground: Clear the area of all grass, weeds and debris using a good quality spade. Dig 1ft deep post holes. Set the posts using post mix so that the top is at or slightly above the desired height.

Should I put a vapor barrier under my deck?



In a crawlspace under a house, the air moisture can easily be dominated by the soil moisture and is one reason that a vapor barrier is used. The tar paper over the joists and under the decking is a VERY GOOD idea and it is one of the best things that can be done to prevent decay of the joists.

Should landscape fabric go under 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).

Is mulch good for under deck?

In a low-light environment underneath a deck, mulch can remain damp, which invites fungal growth and wood rot, which can spread to your deck and house. If you are looking for gravel alternatives under your deck, consider synthetic mulches (such as mulch made from recycled tires) rather than organic materials.

How do I keep grass from growing under my deck?

How to Prevent Grass From Growing Under Your Deck

  1. Mow It. First and foremost, you should mow the area under your deck. …
  2. Apply Herbicide. After mowing the grass, apply an herbicide to the grass under your deck. …
  3. Lay a Tarp. No herbicide lasts forever. …
  4. Inspect Regularly.


Can you build a deck on top of 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.

What do you put under decking to stop weeds?

Add an extra layer of protection.
Once the weed control fabric is down and secured with landscaping pegs, the next step is to cover it with mulch or gravel. Put a good, thick layer down – both help keep the light out and suppress weeds and anything else that might grow.

What kills weeds permanently?

Yes, vinegar does kill weeds permanently and is a viable alternative to synthetic chemicals. Distilled, white, and malt vinegar all work well to stop weed growth.

How do you get rid of weeds so they never come back?



To kill all vegetation in walkways, driveways and other areas where you don’t want any living thing to grow again, mix two cups ordinary table salt with one gallon of white vinegar. Do this in a container that is larger than one-gallon capacity so you have room for the salt.

What is the fastest way to get rid of weeds?

6 Fast and Natural Ways to Kill Weeds

  1. Use mulch to smother weeds. Covering garden soil with a mulch blocks weeds. …
  2. Douse weeds with boiling water. Weeds, like humans, will burn if exposed to boiling water. …
  3. Soap weeds to death. …
  4. Pickle weeds with vinegar. …
  5. Give weeds a stiff drink of alcohol. …
  6. Don’t let ’em sprout!