While a floating deck may appear to float above the grass this style of deck is actually built on a bed of gravel or on concrete blocks for stability.
Building a floating deck on the ground.
In the steps outlined in this diy floating deck example we reference a deck situated on concrete blocks which raises the deck for ventilation.
Often the posts supporting them are not visible giving the deck its floating appearance.
They rely on a structural base that s not.
This keeps the wood off the ground and away from moisture so the wood stays drier and lasts longer.
Generally floating decks are low to the ground and don t require handrails or even staircases.
4 2 x 10 x 16 pressure treated lumber two of them used for the flower box 12 concrete deck blocks only used 8 39 16 ft.
They are sometimes called grade level or freestanding decks because they re built just above the ground level or grade.
When decks are less than 30 above grade they re usually easier to build for three reasons.
A floating deck is a deck that isn t attached to a building and they float above the ground.
It s a floating deck which means it simply rests on blocks at ground level and is not anchored deeply in the ground.
15 2 x 8 x 16 pressure treated lumber.
But it s best to support the deck on concrete blocks.
Floating decks can be set directly on the ground or preferably a bed of gravel.
Trex enhance beach dune deck boards three boards used to cover the top of the old retaining wall and to give the illusion of a step.
Floating decks are also called ground level decks because they typically hug the ground.
The blocks should be spaced to make a 7 x 19 rectangle leaving about 6 inches from each block for deck boards to add another 8 x 20 rectangle.
Building a deck is a lot of work and it isn t cheap.
In colder climates the ground goes through freeze and thaw cycles which result in surface ground upheaval and movement over time which would ruin all your work in short order.
While a floating deck might be next to a building it may also be a standalone structure in the middle of your yard.
But it s best to support the deck on concrete blocks.
Set the four corners for the deck.
This type of deck can only be made in areas that do not have a deep winter frost.
Floating decks on the other hand sit low to the ground and actually appear to float on two or more sides depending on the joist system design.