9/24/2023 0 Comments Spacing for concrete deck blocks![]() The deck blocks can almost always be handled by one person.It’s important to realize the pier blocks are small and offer the least amount of support most decks require. There are more cons to concrete deck blocks than there are pros. It’s a minimalist approach to supporting a deck. Just as you pull on the cap to expose the pen, you can lift up a deck off the blocks. Concrete lugs on the block act like the sidewalls of a pen cap. A wood deck support post fits down inside the concrete pier block. ![]() Precast concrete piers must be set with a crane or backhoe on the job site.Ĭoncrete deck blocks are very crude and resemble the cap you might have on a cheap ballpoint pen. They cannot, however, be simply placed at grade level.ĭeck blocks are not to be confused with real concrete piers that are either precast and weigh hundreds and hundreds of pounds or with piers you cast in place using precut rebar reinforced plastic forms that can easily be placed and handled by the average person. They must have a sufficient bearing area (the area of the block that sits on the earth) and be a minimum of 12-inches below grade, or below the local frost depth. They’re subject to all of the same requirements as a typical footing, regardless of not being cast-in-place. What are Concrete Deck Blocks?Ī deck block is in many ways just a simplified version of a “precast foundation,” a foundation type recognized by building codes. Perhaps the biggest drawback to concrete deck blocks is their limited potential as you never want to bury them in the ground thus causing potential rot issues with the wooden deck posts. They are just one option for support deck weight and come with certain pros and cons. Their purpose is to spread out the extreme concentrated loads at the bottom of wooden deck posts onto strong soil. This provides stability and gives you a good idea of how the decking will lay.Concrete deck blocks are primitive building materials that look similar to children’s toys that snap together to build things. Use joist hangers to fasten the inner joists to the beam faces at regular intervals, using the spacing recommended by the decking manufacturer, as well as local building code regulations. Once the framing beams are level, attach angle brackets at the corners of the deck for additional support where the joists and beams meet. Add additional gravel to level out the ground, if needed. Consider using temporary supports to hold your beams in place. Measure diagonally and tap the beams to line them up. Lay the deck beams on top of the footings, making sure they are high enough off the ground to allow for ventilation. Next, put stakes in the ground and string the perimeter to ensure the deck outline is level and square.Īt this stage, you should be able to see your deck starting to take shape. It’s also recommended to install gravel under the structure to provide better drainage. In mostMost areas where the ground freezes, you may need to use traditional concrete footings to build your deck foundation. If you live in a location where the ground does not freeze, you could have the option to build the foundation with concrete deck blocks. Sustained dampness on a deck can lead to mold, rot and decay. Once you know where you plan to build, assess the terrain to ensure proper water run-off and ventilation. Are you envisioning a quiet outdoor oasis? Then, a secluded area of your yard might be best. Will you be hosting friends and family? If so, you may want to position your deck near the house. Next, consider how you plan to use your deck to determine the best location for it. While a ground-level deck typically does not require a permit, it is a good idea to check with your local builder’s office to confirm the building codes in your area before you get started. If you’ve got the skills, time and ambition, the experts at offer these helpful tips for how to build a ground-level deck that will transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis:Ī successful deck build starts with proper planning. Also called a “floating” or “platform” deck, a ground-level deck is a relatively easy and affordable DIY project.ĭue to its low profile, this type of structure doesn’t typically require safety railings or stairs, so the costs are comparatively lower than building an elevated deck in terms of both materials and labor. Whether you want to create a picturesque setting for al fresco dining, establish the perfect outdoor entertainment destination, or simply want a place to enjoy relaxing weekends, building a ground-level deck is an ideal way to maximize any outdoor space.
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