You will need 1 block for each corner of each pallet. They are resting on pavers and do n ot touch the ground. As we speak of a light construction, you don’t have to build a concrete slab foundation, but dig several holes, install tube forms and pour concrete. In order to work like a qualified professional, we recommend you to build batter boards from 2×4 wooden boards and string. Dig a hole, at least twice as deep as the block. The deck was going to be located in a fairly level part of the back yard, so I didn't bother moving around any dirt. There is always a kind of relaxation and serenity when we even think of the outdoor spaces like patio, garden and deck area of the house. Decks like this can be used for dining, grilling and other leisure activities. The ground is uneven, however, and slopes downhill in a southward direction. Follow along for instructions, material lists, and time and money saving tips and tricks. Before starting the project, you have to make sure the location of the deck is level and the soil structure is able to support the construction. Use little rocks if the weather is windy. This is probably the most popular method by which to build a deck & for good reason. If you want to build a 10×10′ or 8×10′ deck on the ground, you have to pour several concrete footings. 19. How to Build an Elevated Deck on Uneven Ground This article will show you how to build a sturdy deck using common tools with minimal cuts and expense. Between 3:1 and 2:1 slopes, a minimum of two feet deep, and between 2:1 and 1:1 slopes, no less than 3 feet deep. The links provided in the Shopping Lists and Tools sections are affiliate links. Second, the top boards are treated deck boards. As you can easily notice, building a deck on the ground is easy if you lay out the structure properly, level the beams with a spirit level and use quality materials. Leave … Putting up a shed base on uneven ground can be a little challenging. Drive 36-inch-long stakes 6 inches into the ground at the approximate locations of the corners of the deck using a steel mallet. Because these are the places we meet the nature to its fullest as sun rises, lowers, and fresh air breezes in the outdoors only. Recycled Pallet Deck. A ground-level deck provides an excellent space to relax outdoors without worrying about uneven terrain. Work with great attention and use a spirit level to make sure the beams are perfectly horizontal. In order to drain the water properly, we recommend you to leave 1/10” between the boards (place a nail between the boards to get a consistent gap). Choosing the location for the free standing deck is difficult, as you have to comply with the local building codes and to place it as to enjoy your beautiful backyard. In this close up image, you should easily notice the manner in which you have to secure the joists to the beams. Step 3: Consider Ground Level Deck Ventilation. They don't come with the same risk of below-deck pest infestation as raised decks. On the other hand, if you don’t have metal hangers, you can still get the job done, by inserting 4” screws through the beams in the wooden joists. If you lay it directly on the ground, you may find that it’s more susceptible to absorbing moisture and might need additional maintenance. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); How to Build an Elevated Deck on Uneven Ground This article will show you how to build a sturdy deck using common tools with minimal cuts and expense. Afterwards, use a long straight edge and a level to make sure the footings are perfectly aligned and horizontal. The next step is to install the joists every 16” on center. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); By clicking GO!, you acknowledge that you have read Trex's Privacy Policy. How to Build a Deck on Sloped or Uneven Ground. Little by little we have been working on the back yard, and the new deck is working out perfectly! Don’t forget that you have to secure the joints between the wooden components by using corner brackets, metal joist hangers and several long screws. Uneven ground is very complicated for steps. There are two main ways you can build your platform on a sloped or uneven surface. Between 3:1 and 2:1 slopes, a minimum of two feet deep, and between 2:1 and 1:1 slopes, no less than 3 feet deep. In order to secure the beams into place, you have to drill pilot holes and insert several lag bolts. Read More >> If you use screws, you have to drill pilot holes with a drill machinery, as to avoid the wood from splitting. Step 2 - Excavating the Area. Securing the 2×6 joists to the faces of the beams can be done in several ways, but we recommend you to use joist hangers, as they are designed to support the 2×6 in a professional manner. Make sure that the deck board is in the opposite direction to the inner joists and flush to the frame. Make sure you build your deck high enough for ventilation so the ground can dry out. Next, install a beam made of two 2×6, in the post anchors. If the deck is only 1 or 2 feet above fairly level ground, you can build simple stairs using precut stringers available at home centers. 2 Position your first board across the inner joists starting from one corner. In addition, use a spirit level to align and plumb the wooden joists, before driving in the screws. Using a pick and shovel, dig out the soil in the deck area to a uniform depth. Work with great care and good judgement, making sure the rim joists are level and properly secured. Making use of the plan for your deck, mark out the perimeter of the structure by means of wooden stakes, which you will drive into the ground every few feet. Cut the boards long enough to meet the dimensions for the deck. After you have installed decking boards on the whole surface of the free standing deck,  you should use chalk line to mark the straight cutting line. Next, you have to install the rim joists into position, by inserting several nails trough the perpendicular joists, and by installing a corner bracket. Remember, the plywood that will cover this will raise the height another 3/4 of an inch. Next, use a circular saw or a jigsaw to cut the decking boards along the cut line. Our wood pallet deck has served us well. For slopes steeper than 45 degrees, consulting an engineer may be the best choice. These footings have to be perfectly aligned and level, otherwise the deck won’t have a professional look. One of the handful of raised, multi-tiered designs on this list, this recycled pallet deck requires some know-how. Once the paint or stain is dry, add polyurethane to protect the finish further. Dig 15” holes with a posthole digger, pour a 3-4” layer of gravel and install the tube forms. 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