I want to build a deck,just above the ground, about 16'x25' to cover a flat gravel covered area,?

Question

I have a flat gravel covered area in the yard that I would like to make usable (19' x 30'). I was thinking of building a deck just above the ground. what's the best way to make it as close to the ground as possible? Should I put in concrete footings

Answer 1

Check with your local government, they each have certain restrictions. My neighbor had his deck inspected (after he had friends put it in) and had to tear it all back down to put in concrete footings. He also needed a permit. Based on whatever your city ordinance is, my neighbor had to put in so many footings per sq foot and have it re-inspected before he could re-build the deck.

Good Luck :)

Answer 2

Check with your local city/county government on what is required as far as building codes and permits....

You can put a deck in, mounting it on concrete piers, and how deep, and the spacing between them would be determined by your local building codes.

Another option would be to consider using concrete, brick, or stone, to 'pave' the area, instead of putting up a deck.

Do your homework on the permits and codes first, then hit some local building supply stores, library, book stores, etc, for ideas on how to cover the area to make it more user friendly. =) Have fun

Answer 3

The Home Despot sells ready-made concrete footings that you can insert your joists alongside then bolt on. Pretty easy, I used them for a deck I built a few years ago. Dig a hole, drop 'em in, level 'em & secure with more concrete.

Answer 4

Check my most recent answer, regarding decks. Approxiamtely 3 min ago.

Rev. Steven

Answer 5

first thing is do you get frost/ frozen ground in your area?...then if you want to attach it to your home?...if your ground can freeze you need footings below frost line..if you don't attach it to your home you can build it on slabs or blocks and the deck can move separate from the home.