- 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.
Besides, What is the minimum clearance under a deck? For subfloor ventilation, these are the general requirements; The minimum ground clearance should be 400mm. If termite resistant timbers are used the minimum clearance can be 150mm from the underside of the lowest horizontal timber in the sub floor.
Why deck posts should not be set in concrete?
Deck posts set in concrete increase rot and make it impossible to replace the post in the future if it is damaged. Also, in many jurisdictions, setting deck post in concrete is illegal; instead, deck posts need to be placed above the concrete footing extending below the frost line to 6′′ (150mm) above grade.
Can I build a deck without footings? Building your dream deck without footings Instead of using footings, adding a level of gravel will give you the drainage aspect you are looking for. You can then add a frame of wood that anchors in concrete blocks that sit in the gravel, creating your new deck.
Hence, How high should a deck be off the ground? The number-one reason ground-level decking projects fail is a lack of ventilation. We always recommend at least 18 inches of ground clearance to allow for good air flow, but ground-level decks, by definition, flout this rule.
How close to ground can a deck be?
Ground-Level Decks Lack Ventilation We always recommend at least 18 inches of ground clearance to allow for good air flow, but ground-level decks, by definition, flout this rule.
How much would a 12×12 deck cost?
Cost to Build a Deck by Size
| Size | Pressure-treated wood Average cost per sq ft | Composite decking Average cost per sq ft |
|---|---|---|
| 10×10 | $650 | $1,400 |
| 10×20 | $1,300 | $2,800 |
| 12×12 | $936 | $2,016 |
| 12×20 | $1,560 | $3,360 |
How long will a ground level deck last?
On average, a ground-level deck will last 15 years or more. A ground level deck’s life is vastly dependent, not on the decking but the environment under the decking. With the deck so close to the ground, the deck’s substructure is at risk of failure, shortening how long the deck will last.
How much clearance do you need under a deck?
For subfloor ventilation, these are the general requirements; The minimum ground clearance should be 400mm. If termite resistant timbers are used the minimum clearance can be 150mm from the underside of the lowest horizontal timber in the sub floor.
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.
Can I run dryer vent under deck?
According to the International Residential Code (IRC), a dryer vent under a deck is technically allowed. As for how viable this option is, there are factors such as wood damage, dangerous winter conditions, and lint build-up that can occur when a dryer vent is under a deck, but this can be avoided.
How do I keep moisture out under my deck?
Under-Deck Drainage System A better way to draw away water and protect the wood in your deck is to install a drainage system under the deck during construction. A quality under-deck drainage system such as Trex RainEscape is installed OVER the joists, so no water comes in contact with the wood that supports your deck.
What should be under a deck?
The best material to put under a lower deck is landscape fabric covered by non-organic material like gravel or rock. The landscape fabric to stop weeds from overtaking your deck, the gravel to hold down the fabric while allowing for drainage.
What do you put under a wood deck?
Put Gavel Under the Deck To ensure your under-deck space doesn’t become a moisture trap, accelerating rot for your wood deck, or a field of weeds, consider adding gravel. Washed gravel or crushed stone allows rain and snow to drain and create natural runoff.
How much clearance is needed under a deck?
Decks should be designed to last 25 years – the anticipated minimum life of a residential building. Subfloor bearers should have ground clearance of 450mm. Joists require capping with waterproof plastic or malthoid.
How high should decking be off the ground?
Make sure you build your deck high enough for ventilation so the ground can dry out. That way, your deck will last longer. Generally, if a deck is less than 12 inches above the ground, the perimeter of the deck must be open for free air to flow beneath the deck.
Can decking be laid on concrete?
An existing concrete patio will make your deck installation much easier and faster, and you can install your deck directly onto the concrete. You will want to account for water drainage and material expansion/contraction, so it is best to place boards called ‘sleepers’ underneath the deck.
How do I stop moisture under my deck?
Should you put landscape fabric under a 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).
Should you put plastic sheeting under a deck?
No, putting plastic under a deck is not good for the deck. Plastic under the deck will trap moisture, increase rot and attract insects to your deck. Landscape fabric is a better alternative for stopping weeds from growing under the deck while allowing water to drain. That’s the short answer.
How do you enclose the bottom of a deck?
Using an Open Style. Wire mesh is an inexpensive material to use to seal off below a deck. It will prevent animal access to the area below your deck, but it will not form a visual barrier to the area. One option is to seal off the area with wire mesh, then use landscape plants to hide the wire.
Should I put rocks under my deck?
To ensure your under-deck space doesn’t become a moisture trap, accelerating rot for your wood deck, or a field of weeds, consider adding gravel. Washed gravel or crushed stone allows rain and snow to drain and create natural runoff.
Should I put landscape fabric under a 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).
