How to Build a Floating Deck: A Step-by-Step Guide for DIYers
The floating deck—a very cool concept that extends one's outdoor living space without having to do a complete foundation. That works just great for people who do not want the hassle of an actual deck installation to add to the appeal of their backyard. Whether you're a DIY novice or a seasoned pro, building a floating deck can be a very rewarding project that can turn your yard into the perfect retreat.
In this article, we will take you through the steps and materials you will need to make your floating deck dream a reality, with plenty of helpful tips from professional deck contractors along the way.
Step 1: Planning Your Floating Deck
Before you embark on any construction project, proper planning is the most needed thing. A floating deck might not need the footings or any serious foundation work, but that does not mean you pass the planning phase.
Location: Find a flat, level spot for your deck. A floating deck is perfect for areas that need a raised platform but without the landscape to accommodate the traditional structure. Consider sun exposure and proximity to your home or garden features to optimize its functionality.
Size: Determine the size of your floating deck. Measure the area well, considering that one may have to make allowances for slight ground shifts or settling.
Materials: The type and quality of materials to be used should be verified by a decking contractor or looked up in local building codes to ensure appropriateness for your specific weather conditions. Pressure-treated wood, composite decking, or even cedar works great and withstands the elements.
Step 2: Materials and Tools Gathering
After you planned your deck, now is the time to gather materials and tools. The following are what you will need for most of the floating deck projects.
Materials:
Pressure-treated lumber or composite decking
Concrete deck blocks
Galvanized screws or deck nails
Landscape fabric—to prevent weeds
Gravel—for drainage under the deck
Tape measure
Power drill
Circular saw or miter saw
Level
Hammer or nail gun
Shovel
With that said, be sure to buy good materials for this so that your floating deck will withstand the elements especially if your location is highly susceptible to unstable weather conditions.
Step 3: Ground Preparation
You need to prepare the ground first prior to building so that your deck will have a solid and level base.
Clear the Space: The space where your deck is going should be free of grass, rocks, and any other obstacles. You will use a shovel or hoe to do this, making sure you dig down about 2-3 inches in the dirt so that there can be a flat surface.
Lay Landscape Fabric: Inhibit weeds from coming up through your deck by laying down landscape fabric over topsoil that has been cleared. This aids in drainage.
Gravel Base: Put the layer of gravel over top of the landscape fabric, and this will be for drainage and help in keeping it dry underneath your deck to prevent water damage or rot over time.
Step 4: Laying the Foundation with Deck Blocks
Unlike traditional decks, floating decks rest on concrete blocks instead of attaching to your home or anchoring into the ground. And for that, deck blocks make the installation of floating decks a lot easier to install and even reposition if need be.
Setting the Blocks: Set your concrete deck blocks out in your space that has been cleared, keeping in mind spacing depending on the size of your deck that will be attached to them. Use a level to verify all blocks are even.
Check the Height: Depending on what it looks like, add or remove gravel underneath the deck blocks until they're even—you want your deck to be level.
Step 5: Deck Frame
Your foundation is in; now it's time to build the frame that will bear your decking.
Cut and Measure the Lumber: Use 2x6 or 2x8 pressure-treated lumber for the outside framing of your deck. Use either the circular saw or miter saw to cut the boards according to the required length.
Lay the Cut Boards: Lay the cut boards onto the deck blocks, ensuring that these are level. Attach them together using galvanized screws or deck nails until you have a solid frame. Squaring of the corners will ensure it is appropriately set.
Install Joists: Basically, run joists perpendicular to the frame boards about 16 inches on center. These extra joists will support the deck surface.
Step 6: Installing the Decking
With your frame in place, it is now time for the real decking boards that will constitute the surface of your floating deck.
Lay the Decking Boards: Starting from one corner of your deck, begin laying your decking boards over the joists. Leave just a little gap between each board for expansion and drainage. Take your power drill and screw these using galvanized screws.
Cut the Edges: Allow all the boards to be in position, then take a circular saw and trim the overhanging edges to give them a clean and finished look.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Your deck is almost done! Now comes the time for those finishing touches that put the finishing flair on your deck and make it polished and professional-looking.
Sand the Surface: Take sandpaper over any rough edges or uneven surfaces to give it a smooth finish.
Seal or Stain: If you used wood decking, then apply a sealer or stain to protect the wood from damage because of weather conditions. This step is quite important, especially if your deck faces the elements all year round.
Add Furniture and Décor: Now that your deck is ready, it is time to add furniture, potted plants, or lighting to make this space an ideal outdoor oasis.
Conclusion: Build Your Perfect Floating Deck
Building a floating deck is one great way to upgrade your outdoor living. Utilizing these steps and borrowing tips from professional deck contractors, you can style a chic and functional deck that's perfect for quiet nights at home, casual entertaining, or simply enjoying the beautiful views of your backyard.
Check out Outdoor Project for more DIY projects and outdoor inspiration.
