Movable deck platforms2/1/2024 ![]() ![]() Beams can then be rested directly on the block footings. The footings are leveled using a string line. This method functions by taking concrete blocks and laying them on a bed of gravel. Like deck blocks, concrete blocks also represent a cheap yet effective alternative for footing your ground level deck. Blocks are not attractive if they aren’t hidden.Blocks can be a little cumbersome to work with.For a 10×8’ floating deck that requires 12 footings, you’re looking at spending only about $96 for your foundation. By burying the blocks, you can build a minimum deck height that’s the width of the joists plus the thickness of your decking.ĭeck blocks are one of the more inexpensive footing options as they only require the purchase of the deck blocks themselves, which are about $8 apiece at Home Depot. Just keep in mind that due to the height of the blocks, you’ll need to partially bury the blocks into the earth by digging footing holes if you’re trying to create a floating deck that hides the deck framing. This means more footings than other options require.Īlso, deck blocks will only fit 4×4 posts, so if you plan on using 6×6’s you’ll have to use an alternate foundation. Due to their small footprint, you need to distribute the weight over a large number of deck blocks to prevent the blocks from sinking into the ground. That said, they do have their limitations. For these reasons, deck blocks are one of the most popular options out there. Simply position them in the right places, level them and you’re good to go. Deck Blocksĭeck blocks are cheap and easy to install. Below is a comprehensive list of the options you have to choose from. These relaxed restrictions allow for footings that are sometimes cheaper or significantly easier to install than footings for standard decks. Ground Level Deck Footing Optionsīecause ground level decks in most cases don’t require you to go deeper than the frost line, you have more options when considering what type of footing to use. As such, your build time for a ground-level deck should be markedly faster than it is for a standard deck. Why? Due to their proximity to the ground, they don’t require beams, stairs or railings. One of the advantages of a ground-level deck is that they’re easier to build. This means the deck frame will be more exposed to moisture, making them more susceptible to rot. This is even more crucial with ground level decks as they will likely make ground contact due to their nature. Why? As with standard decks, your ground level deck will be exposed to the elements, so pressure-treated lumber is required to prevent your deck from rotting. This almost goes without saying, but you need to use pressure-treated lumber when you build a deck. There is no need to extend a footing below the frost line, as is required for standard decks. No Shallow Footings RequiredĪccording to the main code provision for footings, the only requirement for building a deck that is freestanding is that it must have a minimum footing depth of 12 inches below the undisturbed ground surface. That said, make sure to check with your local building code before getting started to make sure they haven’t amended this IRC guideline. One of the nice advantages of building a ground-level deck is that you won’t need to apply for a permit or wait for inspections.Īccording to the International Residential Code (IRC), no permit is needed if you’re building a deck that does not exceed 200 square feet in area, is not more than 30 inches above the ground at any point, is not attached to a dwelling and does not serve an exit door to a building. ![]() General Rules for Grade-Level (Floating) Decks No Permit Required Often, the posts supporting them are not visible, giving the deck its “floating” appearance. While a floating deck might be next to a building, it may also be a standalone structure in the middle of your yard.įloating decks are also called ground-level decks because they typically hug the ground. General Rules for Grade-Level (Floating) DecksĪ ground-level deck, sometimes referred to as a floating deck or platform deck, is so-called because, unlike conventional decks, a ground-level deck is not attached to a home or building.
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