I thought I’d write this post even though we haven’t quite finished the deck construction as a guide on costs and ideas to assist anyone interested in building their own ground level deck. If you’re considering any type of raised deck please check with your local council for any approvals and requirements. Have a look at the video to see how it came together.
The basics aren’t that hard and there are many plans available online that will provide you with the basic frame and timber dimensions.
The link below contains a simple set of instructions as a starting point.
Now the deck we constructed around the pool is more complex than this one however the principals remain the same.
Firstly I divided the space into roughly 3 rectangular sections around the pool. The front, the side and back sections. Labelled 1 2 and 3 on the drawing below.
I always find it easier with these larger projects, to break them down into manageable pieces.
Having mapped out the framework and design, I commenced measuring the frame in section 1, keeping in mind that the most important aspect. The deck needs to be 100% level and also in this instance level with the top of the pool.
In researching the materials to use for the frame I decided in this instance to use 150mm*50mm H4 treated pine sleepers which cost about $11.50 each. This deck would be either touching the ground or in very close proximity to it in most areas so a H4 treated pine product is required.
Frame Construction.
The top edge of the pool was my guide as it was level all the way round. I started on Frame 1 at the top of the pool and attached the first of the sleepers for the frame to the edge of the pool using dynabolts.. The sleeper was attached exactly 19mm below the top of the pool times to allow for the decking boards to be nailed to the frame.
Once the pool side of the frame was securely attached I completed the top of the frame ensuring it was level with the pool side.
With both sides of the frame completed and level I commenced inserting the bearers/ joists between them 45cm apart. To strengthen the structure I placed posts in the ground throughout the centre of the frame.
The below link provides a guide to the spans and construction methods for a deck. However please check with a local council for details on your particular area.
http://www.readersdigest.com.au/how-to-build-a-courtyard-deck
Laying the Decking Boards
Working from the pool edge out we commenced laying the decking boards perpendicular to the joists.
To keep the boards straight long the entire distance make sure to use a stringline that is equidistant from the pool edge at both ends of the decking board.
We lined the first decking board up with the edge of the pool and predrill 2 holes at each joist. Then nailing the decking board to the joists.
Using a spacer and stringline as guides place the next decking board in place and repeat the drilling and nailing.
Continue this until you reach the far side of the deck.
Finishing the deck
Once all the decking timber is in place and securely nailed finish the deck with a decking oil. If you wish to lighten or darken the colour of the timber choose a decking oil with a tint. Remember that once you chose a darker tint its very difficult to lighten after.
I’ve found the easiest way to apply the decking oil is to use a roller, remembering to use nice even strokes to apply the oil. Complete 2-3 coats.
Depending on the type of decking oil you use I would suggest reapplying every 12-18months for decks that are exposed to the Australian sun.
Cost
The approximate size of our deck is 33 m2
Materials Used
46/ Treated pine Sleepers 150*50
378 lineal metres Hardwood Decking 90*19
10/ 90*90 Posts
Other
Galvanised Joist Hangers
10* Concrete 20kg Bags
Galvanised griptight nails
Bolts
Approximate Total Materials Cost
Decking – $1518
Frame – $1050
