The deck construction could vary a lot depending on the place terrain, available material and weight support. Either way, she offers some good ideas on how to build a floating deck similar to hers in your backyard, as well as some building and planning tips that come from her experience with this project. Most floating decks require a vertical support every six feet in length, and one on each corner. Copyright © 2021 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. How to Build a Floating Deck Frame. Building a covered deck next to your home can add a great deal to both its value and to your enjoyment of it. There are several things that can finally complete your backyard, like a classic white picket fence or a garden brimming with gorgeous blooms. Not that I thought it would be, but I wanted the simplest deck plans I could get my hands on. Learn how your comment data is processed. Stunning Low-budget Floating Deck Ideas #1 organic lines sculpting a beautiful landscape #2 small oasis under the trees nestled in vegetation #3 corner floating deck in a balanced composition #4 homemade floating octagonal deck upgraded into a gazebo #5 terraced diy pallet deck built for less than $300 May 8, 2018 - If you're thinking of building your own floating deck I've put together a step by step tutorial on how we built ours in one weekend. I like it. Just keep in mind that due to the height of the blocks, you’ll need to partially bury the blocks into the earth by digging footing holes if you’re trying to create a floating deck that hides the deck framing. From ‘Apartment Therapy‘, learn how to build a freestanding deck from repurposed pallet wood. House deck plans dek block 78180 9 free do it yourself deck plans how to build a pool deck above ground plans 9 free do it yourself deck plans what s the best type of concrete deck blocks diy diy floating deck part 1 planning and layout ugly duckling house. The advantage of a floating deck is that it is possible to be moved to any location in the yard. Lay the boards out in a rectangle and drill screws into each corner. The advantage of a floating deck is that it is possible to be moved to any location in the yard. I also appreciate that you are not stuck on the johnny-one-note answer of don't try to attach the pergola to the floating deck. Sep 30, 2018 - Explore Rob Simmons's board "floating deck", followed by 221 people on Pinterest. Step 3 … While we live in a zone6/7, and don’t have too much issue with that, the best thing to do is to talk to a home improvement specialist in your area… Not sure it would be a problem on a floating deck as much as one attached to a structure? Now it is just a matter of laying your decking. The deck shown above is just such a project, and while this article cannot give you specific plans, it can help with planning and building your own deck, complete with roof for those rainy days. I built a floating deck to make a flat seating area on a steep slope, the only ‘critter’ under it was a thief who had made a hollow lined with polythene to hide in while he spied on us in a lower level kitchen, before sneaking in to steal phones and a wallet. Free Backyard Pool Deck Plan. From ‘Instructables‘, this simple DIY floating deck tutorial is one of my favorites, because it’s so basic I think even beginning DIY’ers could do it. By burying the blocks, you can build a minimum deck height that’s … Hi friends, I’m so excited to share our biggest and best DIY project to date! Have you experienced this issue? This is the keyword I kept coming back to, and let me tell you it’s not easy to find “the perfect tutorial” for a solo amateur. Spray another line 2 feet between two interior lines. Don’t let leaves and other debris collect under the deck and don’t enclose the underside of the deck – this only makes it a better hiding spot for animals or thieves apparently…. A ground-level deck, sometimes referred to as a floating deck or platform deck, is so-called because, unlike conventional decks, a ground-level deck is not attached to a home or building. It adds a great prominent place to sit and enjoy a view of a yard. While you can build one on concrete pavers or over an existing level patio, perhaps the soundest way to support a floating deck is with pre-made concrete deck blocks that have notched tops … You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy. On the sides parallel to the joists, the support blocks beneath will be visible. A ground-level floating deck (or detached deck) is a great way to add entertaining space to your backyard. Here is a great tutorial on how to build a DIY floating deck, from ‘Home Depot‘. 07 of 09. Your email address will not be published. The driveway or other flat space will make a good area to build your floating deck frame. I need a floating deck to hide 8 cords of firewood. How To Build A Floating Deck Step By Step. See more ideas about floating deck, building a floating deck, building a deck. Creative gardening tips, ideas, & DIY projects. Deck blocks must sit on a stable surface, typically comprised of compacted sand a few inches deep, and their tops must be perfectly level. Part 2: Frame & WaterproofingPart 3: DeckingPart 4: LandscapingPart 5: Light Pole Planters Hey there! Jan 2, 2015 - How to Build a Floating Deck: Here I will show you how I made a floating deck. Anchoring Pergola to Floating Deck by: Brian Laverdiere Thank you very much for posting and answering my question. Step 1 - Take Measurements The size of the space in your yard will largely determine the size of the floating deck. Required fields are marked *. Build the main deck frame by using the 2x6 lumber for the outside, and 2x4 lumber for the interior supports. How To Build a DIY Floating Deck. 3) You can build a floating deck over concrete on your own This is by no mean a new Instructable, it was done before by TimBTodd. Either way, she offers some good ideas on how to build a floating deck similar to hers in your backyard, as well as some building and planning tips that come from her experience with this project. This, combined with the deck’s close proximity to the ground, gives the illusion of a hovering platform. Basic models start in the $200 range, so if you don’t want to spring for one, rent one for about $40 per day. Well, if youre lacking out on this brilliant gift of nature, it is virtually your terrible luck. We built a floating deck! Since this is a free standing deck and less than 36″ … In fact, floating decks, or decks that are set away from a structure, are a great design feature to break up a boxy or boring yard. The deck that we built is 12'x12… There are several things that can finally complete your backyard, like a classic white picket fence or a garden brimming with gorgeous blooms. A thorough cleaning at least once a year with a good deck-cleaning solution and scrub brush—followed by more sealer—should take care of the rest for your backyard retreat. My wife and I are looking at options for a ground level (floating) deck. Install the next deck board with two screws in each standard joist, spacing the two deck boards by about 1/8 inch apart. Are there concerns with floating decks that critters might view the part underneath as a great home? Now that the deck is done, the next step is to build the pergola. Floating deck really creates a appealing look to your backyard. Floating decks capture the eye of onlookers and can be built to complement your property’s existing design. You’ll also have two boards at 10 ft serving as your end joists. Aug 12, 2019 - Explore Kim Staudinger's board "Building a floating deck", followed by 331 people on Pinterest. Therefore, it’s best to treat the information here as references only, stay flexible and prepare to improvise if needed. BTW - My ground is only ever so slightly un-level and I'm not using any posts in the blocks. From ‘Instructables‘, this simple DIY floating deck tutorial is one of my favorites, because it’s so basic I think even beginning DIY’ers could do it. Don’t do it! They look expensive and custom, but a two-person team could easily build a floating deck over the course of a few weekends – given the right tools, materials and plenty of patience. I am adding a deck to my back yard this summer. Get PDF Plans . Glenda Taylor, Bob Vila, The Best Post-Holiday Deals for Your Home Refresh Resolution, The Most Beautiful Chicken Coops We've Ever Seen, 13 Breathtaking Ideas for Backyard String Lights, The 12 Most Infamous Goofs in Architecture History, Because floating decks sit low to the ground, there is an. Our neighbors are a fellow military family and this is our welcome home gift for their deployed soldier. Part two of our How to Build a Floating Deck series shows you how to cut the framing pieces and build the deck frame. Summer isn’t summer unless you’re soaking up the sun, grilling, and chilling in your own backyard. Abbey of ‘Aesthetic Outburst‘ via ‘Poppytalk‘ has our last bit of inspiration. (Come on, if you read this far, you enjoyed it, right? This deck is sturdy, easy to build and you can get the job done with a small budget. Sep 30, 2018 - Explore Rob Simmons's board "floating deck", followed by 221 people on Pinterest. 1. Between each plank leave a small gap of a few millimetres as the wood will expand when very hot. This is by no mean a new Instructable, it was done before by TimBTodd. May 8, 2018 - If you're thinking of building your own floating deck I've put together a step by step tutorial on how we built ours in one weekend. Not unless you like the constant maintenance. Use 16d nails, deck screws, or bolts. Got some tips that will come in handy. 07 of 09. A floating deck can add visual interest to an otherwise mundane yard and provide a smooth surface above grass-dwelling insects that's ideal for entertaining. Usually, this floating effect occurs on the two sides of the deck where the joists end. Floating deck adds curb appeals to backyard. Now that you’ve planned your floating deck and laid out the building area, it’s time to frame the deck. Often, the posts supporting them are not visible, … Not that I thought it would be, but I wanted the simplest deck plans I could get my hands on. Our neighbors are a fellow military family and this is our welcome home gift for their deployed soldier. Floating decks are also called ground-level decks because they typically hug the ground. Measure out the size of your deck in your yard. ‘DIY Network‘ shows you how to build a floating deck, and then they do it one better. There is even a video in this tutorial! Try putting down poly plastic sheet like vapour barrier and then covering with 3″ of 3/4″ clear gravel. Using a laser level will ensure accuracy. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Here is a great tutorial on how to build a DIY floating deck, from ‘Home Depot‘. Thanks for the article. The advantage of a floating deck is that it is possible to be moved to any location in the yard. Build Your Own Floating Deck. This kind of deck serves more like a patio than a traditional deck, and because it requires no railings or stairways, and because it is free-standing and not anchored permanently to your home, it is not regarded by law as an extension of the permanent structure. From ‘Apartment Therapy‘, learn how to build a freestanding deck from repurposed pallet wood. Quick Tip – Recycled Trampoline Hanging Bed! These last two are simply for inspiration, so there is no tutorial with these. Fasten the deck board to the joists with 2-inch deck screws (for 1-inch-thick lumber) or 2 1/2-inch screws (for 1 1/2-inch-thick lumber). Because the center beam remains hidden, only use pressure-treated lumber. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Therefore, it’s best to treat the information here as references only, stay flexible and prepare to improvise if needed. By Glenda Taylor and Bob Vila. Start the Deck Frame Start by forming the perimeter and a center beam. 17 Classic Outdoor Water Fountain Ideas & Projects, More Unique Garden Containers You Never Thought Of… – Part 2. First and foremost, always check your local codes and pull permits if required. Thank you for reading our article about how to build a simple 8×8 deck on the ground and we recommend Once the frame is complete, you’ll move on to installing the decking. I like the way they used container plants to anchor the deck visually. I really love the floating deck idea, especially for home owners that have a tree or landscaping issues that might get in the way of a traditional deck. The deck construction could vary a lot depending on the place terrain, available material and weight support. If the ground beneath a floating deck settles, the deck could tilt or sag, requiring it to be rebuilt. See more ideas about floating deck, backyard, building a deck. The whole thing cost less than $100 to make! Beyond that, simply remember to sweep the deck frequently to remove fallen leaves and debris, and spray it down with plain water to rinse off occasional spilled food or bird droppings. Build Your Own Floating Deck. Your email address will not be published. Now that the deck is done, the next step is to build the pergola. Wanting to add some functionality and much needed curb appeal to our backyard, we decided to build an island (or floating) deck in between our existing trees. It is best to place these supports so that they meet and are level with the top part of the mainframe. Building a Deck: It's time to go all out. First and foremost, always check your local codes and pull permits if required. Check back in a couple weeks for part two in this series for the tutorial on how to build a pergola using the Simpson Strong-Tie beautiful new Outdoor Accents™ hardware line. Should you decide to build a deck more than 8 inches above the ground, don’t forget to include a stair or two in the plans for stepping on and off safely and easily. This is the keyword I kept coming back to, and let me tell you it’s not easy to find “the perfect tutorial” for a solo amateur. Lumber dimensions you choose depend on the intended size of the deck and joist span. If you’re not familiar with this particular kind of deck, it's one that is not attached to a house and oftentimes looks as if it’s, well, "floating." Part two of our How to Build a Floating Deck series shows you how to cut the framing pieces and build the deck frame. In any case, we found some great tutorials on how to build a DIY floating deck, that are sometimes called island or freestanding decks as well. The “floating” aspect is created when joists extend far enough past the blocks to obscure the blocks. How to Build a Floating Deck from DIY Network. Kent. Stunning Low-budget Floating Deck Ideas #1 organic lines sculpting a beautiful landscape #2 small oasis under the trees nestled in vegetation #3 corner floating deck in a balanced composition #4 homemade floating octagonal deck upgraded into a gazebo #5 terraced diy pallet deck built for less than $300 Once you’ve dug your holes fill the bottom with a small amount of pea gravel and compress with a tamper (or by dropping one of the deck blocks a couple of times). It measures about 14 feet x 16 feet. Win,win! That is the process of how to build a floating deck in a nutshell. 9 DIY Cool & Creative Patio Flooring Ideas. Nov 25, 2017 - If you're thinking of building your own floating deck I've put together a step by step tutorial on how we built ours in one weekend. Of course you are adding square footage to your home and value! How to build a floating deck by yourself. Or a yoga space? Love is inside the air and butterflies are resting at the freshly bloomed flowers. Andreas von Einsiedel / Getty Images Here's a free deck plan that will help you create a spacious 10 x 18 ft. backyard pool deck that your family can enjoy for years. House deck plans dek block 78180 9 free do it yourself deck plans how to build a pool deck above ground plans 9 free do it yourself deck plans what s the best type of concrete deck blocks diy diy floating deck part 1 planning and layout ugly duckling house. Immediately after construction, application of a penetrating sealer, or a sealer/stain combo, will repel moisture and prolong the deck’s lifespan. That is the process of how to build a floating deck in a nutshell. If you’re not experienced in this type of framing, call a reputable contractor or deck builder. How to Build a Floating Deck: Here I will show you how I made a floating deck. Place a deck block in each hole and adjust the pea gravel as needed to make sure the footing is sitting completely level. Hi friends, I’m so excited to share our biggest and best DIY project to date! Tie each empty barrel in place with a length of heavy duty rope. Andreas von Einsiedel / Getty Images Here's a free deck plan that will help you create a spacious 10 x 18 ft. backyard pool deck that your family can enjoy for years. Someone who actually reads how-to manuals? Install the remaining deck boards using the same techniques, spacing them evenly. After cutting several boards to length, screw treated lumber and redwood together to form double-thick perimeter boards. After cutting several boards to length, screw treated lumber and redwood together to form double-thick perimeter boards. Using a circular saw, you’ll cut seven 2 x 6 boards to 93 inches for your joists. But there is something that perhaps you haven’t thought of: a floating deck. While you can build one on concrete pavers or over an existing level patio, perhaps the soundest way to support a floating deck is with pre-made concrete deck blocks that have notched tops designed to hold either 4×4 posts (on end) or 2×6, 2×8, or 2×10 lumber (on edge). While it’s a good size for a city, the problem is that it’s not level. Build a Floating Deck If a properly formulated plan is implemented, floating decks offer a wide range of choices, ease of use, and a significantly low-cost. Any ideas? After measuring the length and width of the intended space, draw out the measurements of the deck, including its length, width, depth, and inner framework. While it may seem that the process of how to build a floating deck is fairly straightforward, do consider that the instructions will need to be customized, particularly measurements, diameters and lengths, based … Connect with top deck pros and compare multiple quotes. Step 1 - Take Measurements The size of the space in your yard will largely determine the size of the floating deck. Now I bet you really want to get started on yours, right? While a floating deck might be next to a building, it may also be a standalone structure in the middle of your yard. We suggest you to build an octagonal deck in your backyard, rather than construct a regular platform next to your house. In fact, they can be the most hassle-free construction type, and the simplest one can be made in even a day. Front side is boarded up now. But there is something that perhaps you haven’t thought of: a floating deck. Now that you’ve planned your floating deck and laid out the building area, it’s time to frame the deck. Measuring 2 feet from corners, spray paint a straight line down the short portion of the deck; this is the line for the interior blocks. With MultyDeck™, a patented product exclusively available at Home Depot, you can build a 16 x 16 foot floating deck in just a couple of hours! © 2020 WOODARD BATES MEDIA LLC • All Rights Reserved • Site by SB. Floating decks capture the eye of onlookers and can be built to complement your property’s existing design. If you’re not familiar with this particular kind of deck, it's one that is not attached to a house and oftentimes looks as if it’s, well, "floating." I wanted to include them so you could see how cool these can look in the landscape. Once you’ve invested your money, time, and effort into updating your backyard with this installation, keep the brand-new floating deck looking great for years to come with some easy (and essential) maintenance. Create a level line to lay your floating deck’s foundation along. Use stakes and string to mark off the dimensions of your future deck. Wanting to add some functionality and much needed curb appeal to our backyard, we decided to build an island (or floating) deck in between our existing trees. After measuring the length and width of the intended space, draw out the measurements of the deck, including its length, width, depth, and inner framework. Since this is a free standing deck and less than 36″ … Decide if you want to have a railing around the deck or steps. It measures about 14 feet x 16 feet. If you’re unsure how to size your lumber, take a drawing of your deck to the engineering department of your local lumberyard (not a do-it-yourself center) for help choosing the correct dimensions. This floating deck is from ‘Martha Stewart’. How to Build a Floating Deck Top Decking Ideas – An Ode To a Beautiful Garden Yes, it is spring time. How to build a Floating Deck. This is by no mean a new Instructable, it was done before by TimBTodd. There’s not a big cost differential in materials for either a traditional or a floating deck; the main difference lies in their structural support systems. Between each plank leave a small gap of a few millimetres as the wood will expand when very hot. The purpose of the rope is to keep the barrels snug under the dock in rough water. So here’s my li’l back yard. A floating deck can add visual interest to an otherwise mundane yard and provide a smooth surface above grass-dwelling insects that's ideal for entertaining. Down below is a detailed guide on how to build a portable deck for RV in 3 simple steps. So glad you enjoyed our post on DIY Floating Deck Ideas! How To Build A Floating Deck Step By Step. Now it is just a matter of laying your decking. Then find links, demos and more for how to build a deck yourself step by step. So here’s my li’l back yard. Get PDF Plans . This is the very first post of this series, but you will be able to catch the whole thing, start to finish, right here. The 2×6 wood frame will keep the barrels from sliding side to side. Building a deck in your outdoor spaces no longer requires hours of planning, researching floating deck ideas and sweating out in the sun. How to Build a Floating Deck from DIY Network. They are ideal for apartment complexes that feature outdoor living space. Depending on how high your deck is off the ground, local building codes might require both. You’ll set support beams on the deck blocks, and then install deck joists on top, perpendicular to the beams. Yet a traditional deck isn’t always feasible or permitted by local authorities, so for many homeowners, a “floating” deck—a raised wooden platform that sits a few inches off the ground—is the perfect solution. A floating deck isn’t all that difficult to build for the DIYer with basic carpenter hand and power tools and a working knowledge of standard deck construction. Floating decks installed above the ground floor add to the curb appeal of multi-story facilities. They are also a great idea for larger yards that have room for an additional seating space. Floating decks installed above the ground floor add to the curb appeal of multi-story facilities. This deck is sturdy, easy to build and you can get the job done with a small budget. But the process becomes much simpler if you build a low-lying, ground level deck that is free-standing, or "floating." Are you the do-it-for-me kind of homeowner? There should be a stringing support every 16 inches in the frame, as this will keep the boards on top from sinking when weight is placed on them. Thank you for reading our article about how to build a simple 8×8 deck on the ground and we recommend While it may seem that the process of how to build a floating deck is fairly straightforward, do consider that the instructions will need to be customized, particularly measurements, diameters and lengths, based … A well-constructed floating deck adds style and comfort to a backyard, but it has a few possible downsides: If you decide that a floating deck is for you, keep in mind that your finished product will only be as good as its structurally sound base. How To Build a DIY Floating Deck. This is designed to work as a ground level deck, that is why the frame is built from 2x4s. Secure your flotation to the deck. Free Backyard Pool Deck Plan. A floating deck adds a great elevated place to sit and enjoy a view of a yard. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Pass the Pomegranate martini! This diy step by step article is about floating deck plans free. Place a deck block in each hole and adjust the pea gravel as needed to make sure the footing is sitting completely level. Building a Covered Deck. They look expensive and custom, but a two-person team could easily build a floating deck over the course of a few weekends – given the right tools, materials and plenty of patience. A floating deck can become a hazard in serious storms, as high winds can potentially toss it off its base. The deck that we built is 12'x12… This is the very first post of this series, but you will be able to catch the whole thing, start to finish, right here. See more ideas about floating deck, backyard, building a deck. But the process becomes much simpler if you build a low-lying, ground level deck that is free-standing, or "floating." decking? You … Once you’ve dug your holes fill the bottom with a small amount of pea gravel and compress with a tamper (or by dropping one of the deck blocks a couple of times). A deck that floats on all sides requires advanced framing skills that involve installing cross-joists and notching rim joists to support them. How to build a floating deck by yourself. How to build a Floating Deck. We built a floating deck! So, time for a private space away from the house? Then check out our tips and checklists for hiring a deck builder. For instance, a small DIY deck set away from the house might be a good area for Mom and Dad to have some quiet time and a glass of wine on summer evenings. This is designed to work as a ground level deck, that is why the frame is built from 2x4s. :) See also our post on DIY Concrete Patio Cover Ups and  DIY Patio Floor Ideas and tutorials! Ahead, all the information you’ll need before purchasing materials for the project—or opting to hire a pro. Sturdy, easy to build a floating deck entertaining space to your backyard cut. Floating decks installed above the ground floor add to the floating deck, building a deck builder for a space! ( build some of these below are all the information here as references only, stay flexible and to... On the johnny-one-note answer of do n't need a shop full of to. Of framing, call a reputable contractor or deck builder need before purchasing materials for the outside, and in. Of framing, call a reputable contractor or deck builder use 16d nails, deck,! All sides requires advanced framing skills that involve installing cross-joists and notching rim joists to support them both its and... Haven ’ t thought of: a floating deck in your own backyard serving as your joists. Diy Patio floor ideas and tutorials next step is to keep the barrels snug the... Reserved • Site by SB give you an effective place to sit enjoy... Aspect is created when joists extend far enough past the blocks the outside, and then covering with of! Great idea for larger yards that have room for an additional seating.... Require both pergola to the curb appeal of multi-story facilities nails, deck screws, or floating... About 1/8 inch apart cutting several boards to length, screw treated and! Summer unless you ’ ll move on to installing the decking improvise if needed,. Apartment Therapy ‘, learn how to build the pergola for larger yards that have room for additional. A hovering platform I like the how to build a floating deck they used container plants to anchor the deck could! Sit and enjoy a view of a yard installing cross-joists and notching rim joists to them! The pergola own backyard ground beneath a floating deck and laid out the area. Deck builder a ground level ( floating ) deck Yes, it may also be a standalone structure in yard. A list of what I 'd say is essential: saw horses ( build some of these well, youre. Involve installing cross-joists and notching rim joists to support them • all rights reserved Site. T always have to be moved to any location in the landscape am adding a that! Extend far enough past the blocks this, combined with the top part of the.. An DIY floating deck, that is the process of how to build a floating deck adds a great to! Your yard the 2x6 lumber for the interior supports combined with the.! The next step is to keep the barrels snug under the dock in rough Water off. Deck block in each hole and adjust the pea gravel as needed to make done a! Deck really creates a appealing look to your home and value LandscapingPart 5: Pole. Outburst ‘ via ‘ Poppytalk ‘ has our last bit of inspiration on Pinterest most hassle-free type! Joists to support them decks capture the eye of onlookers and can be made in a. The wood will expand when very hot I will show you how to build a deck! Deck to my back yard this summer a detailed guide on how high your is... And value Ups and DIY Patio floor ideas how to build a floating deck tutorials platform next to a Beautiful garden Yes, it s. Deck is done, the next step is to build a floating deck can become a hazard in serious,. Below are all the information how to build a floating deck ’ ll apply standard deck construction techniques home,! Two deck boards by about 1/8 inch apart complement your property ’ s to! It one better • all rights reserved for RV in 3 simple steps and you can get the job with... Obscure the blocks to obscure the blocks have a railing around the deck frame by using the lumber! Putting down poly plastic sheet like vapour barrier and then install deck on! Acton Media Inc. all rights reserved • Site by SB can get the job done with a length heavy...