Go for it! If it’s able to remain mostly dry, and if it’s NOT infested by termites, and especially if you use a quality finish to limit UV radiation damage, then it should outlast a treated deck by a decent margin.
Can you use 2×4 for decking?
The short answer is yes. 2x4s can work for deck joists. However, they aren’t ideal for spanning long distances without bending or breaking, so you have some limitations. Choosing 2x4s for a low-sitting deck is perfect for keeping your feet out of the mud.
Can I build a deck frame out of 2×6?
2×6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards. Similar to guards, if stairs are to be hung from the side of an upper-level deck, 2×10 as a minimum is recommended, as it will exceed the depth of the first step.
Can I frame a deck with 4×4?
4×4 post will be fine. I have built many decks for new homes with them. 6×6 is more sturdy of course and will not twist as easy, but for structure purposes, 4×4 will be fine.
Can you build a wood deck 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.
Is it OK to use 2×6 for deck joists?
You can use 2×6 as deck joists if the deck is low enough to the ground as not to require guard railing. When using S-P-F 2×6 deck joists, the span must not be greater than 9’0″ (2.73m) with joists at 16″ o.c. (400mm), and 9’10” (3.01m)with spacing at 12″ (300mm).
How far can a 2×6 decking span without support?
How Much Weight Can a 2×6 Support Horizontally? A 2×6 can support up to 50 pounds per square foot of weight without sagging with a maximum span of about 12 feet when spanning a distance horizontally, with the 2×6 standing in a vertical position. This number includes both live and dead weight.
What is the cheapest way to build a deck?
Choose wood, but carefully: Untreated wood decks are generally the cheapest to install, but don’t forget long-term costs. Wood decks require yearly maintenance and deteriorate quickly if they don’t get it.
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.
What do you put under decking?
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.
Do you need drainage under decking?
A deck allows you to relax and entertain outside, but without proper drainage, it’s possible for water to pool underneath. This can create a breeding ground for mosquitoes, mold and bacteria. If you have water standing under your deck after the rain, choose a drainage system that works for you.
Do you need foundations for decking?
Yes, they do need foundations. However, you don’t need to set up an elaborate foundation for deck building. There are two ways to build a deck, and how you prepare the foundation slightly differs depending on which one you choose. You can either go for a ground-level deck or an elevated deck.
Do I need gravel under decking?
Gravel provides excellent drainage, along with landscaping fabric. It also acts as a mulch, preventing weed growth, which can damage decks. Another advantage of using gravel is providing a backdrop for your landscaping design. Many outdoor designers use it to create aesthetically pleasing borders for their patio.
Can you lay decking straight on soil?
Now here are your two options for laying your decking. 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 type of gravel should I put under my deck?
Non-Organic Material or Gravel Coverage
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.
Should I remove grass under 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.
What is a floating deck?
A floating deck is a deck that isn’t attached to a building and they “float” above the ground. Generally, floating decks are low to the ground and don’t require handrails or even staircases. They are sometimes called “grade-level” or “freestanding” decks because they’re built just above the ground level, or grade.
Are deck blocks a good idea?
Deck blocks are a good idea for low decks, decks around trees, areas with low frost levels and economical decks. It is a bad idea to use deck blocks when attaching the deck to the house, on stable ground or supporting elevated decks, pergolas or a roof.
