How to Build a Raised Deck Over Concrete

Building a raised deck is not always the most straightforward project, but it can be one of the most rewarding. Not only will you have an outdoor space to enjoy for years to come, but you’ll also learn how to do some new things around your house that might help out with other projects down the road! 

How to Build a Raised Deck Over Concrete

This article will cover everything you need to know about building a raised deck over concrete. It will explain how to properly make a deck frame, including digging and pouring footings and setting pier blocks. So, this article is for you. You will learn how to build a raised deck over concrete with just one simple trick!

Step to Follow on How to Build a Raised Deck Over Concrete

Step One: Get a Permit

If you want to include a deck in your home, you should get a permit from the local authorities before starting any construction. A deck is a huge structure and can cause problems when they are not constructed properly. For this reason, many cities require the owner of the house to get a permit before anyone starts building on their property.

It is usual for a homeowner to wait around 30 days before getting a permit. This is because the local authorities have to do a thorough inspection of the property to determine whether it is safe or sound enough to support a deck.

Step Two: Choose Your Decking Material

There are many different types of materials that you can use for your deck. The most common material is wood, such as cedar or redwood, but other options include metal and plastic. There are also composite materials that combine the strength of wood with the low maintenance aspect of plastic or metal.

Composite Wood Is Better Option for Decking

Once you have chosen your material, you then have to choose a design for your deck. Again, there are many different designs available, so pick one that will suit the style of your home and be unique enough to stand out from similar houses in the area.

Step Three: Build Your Frame

Once you have chosen material and a design, it is time to build your deck frame. For most decks, you will want to use four posts spaced evenly apart at each corner of the deck. The posts should be about 2 feet in diameter, and they should sink around 3 feet into the ground so that they are strong enough to support the floor.

Building Frame Over Concrete

With this method, it is also recommended to include diagonal beams to attach the four posts. This will ensure that your deck is properly supported, and it will also make it more durable because it will be less likely that the frame will shift or move over time.

Step Four: Lay Your Joists

After your frame is complete, it is now time to lay the joists. The joists are what connect the floor of your deck to the posts and beams. This keeps everything supported as well as allows you to walk around on the deck. The joists should be laid between 16 and 20 inches apart, depending upon your personal preference.

This measurement should also determine how many joists you need to put in place for your deck frame. For instance, if you use 16-inch joists and the boards are 2 feet long, then you will need to put five joists in place for each board.

Step Five: Lay Your Flooring Material

The floor of your deck is most important, as this is where you will be able to walk and layout. It needs to be made from a material that can withstand rain and sunlight for extended periods. The best materials are synthetic deck boards like wood plastic composite.

This material is excellent because it will be able to stand up against the weather for years without discoloring or warping. It can also be cut with a saw, so you do not have any complex tools to build your deck. This will help in how to build a raised deck over concrete.

Step Six: Build Your Railings

The last step to building your deck is to build your railings. The railing defines the edge of the deck and provides a place for you and others to hold on when walking around the outside of the structure. Most decks have at least one section with a railing all around it, if not most of the deck.

Deck Railing Is a Safety Measures

If you want to sit on your deck, then most building codes will require you to put at least one railing along the edge where a person will be sitting. This is because it gives people a safe place to sit and relax while also keeping them from accidentally falling off the side of the structure.

Step Seven: Maintain Your Deck

Once you have finished building your deck, there are still a few precautions that you should take. Usually, the first thing you will want is to clean your deck so it looks its best. You can wash off dirt and debris using a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle or even a power washer if you have one available. 

Additionally, you will need to make sure that your deck is maintained regularly. This is because decks are exposed to the elements every day, and they can start to degrade if not cared for properly. Keep your deck; it is best to sweep or power wash away dirt and debris regularly.

Step Eight: Enjoy Your New Deck!

Once you have finished building your new deck, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor. You will now be able to spend time with friends and family enjoying drinks or meals on a whole new level. You can even choose to host parties in this special outdoor space, which can be a great way to entertain guests.

In addition to being an excellent place to have gatherings, you can also use your deck as a sunroom or an additional living area. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of having a deck without having to go outside every time you want to sit down and relax with a cool drink. Thanks for reading about how to build a raised deck over concrete.

Is It Cheaper to Pour Concrete or Build a Deck?

Pouring concrete is far more expensive than building a wooden deck, but it’s also necessary for some circumstances. For example, concrete may be the best option if you have high traffic coming into your yard or perhaps even just children who are likely to run through the area.

It’s also worth considering pouring concrete where you might want to install some water features such as a pond or fountain. With a wooden deck, those features would be difficult to install and then maintain. Other than those considerations, getting a wooden deck installed is likely to cost you far less money than having concrete poured.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Put Deck Posts on Top of Concrete?

It is essential to consult with a professional before you attempt to do any repairs on your own, as proper installation and maintenance of deck posts can be very dangerous. If you are having trouble attaching the deck post onto the concrete foundation, it may be best to have a contractor do the work for you. Otherwise, there is a risk of damage, both structural and cosmetic, due to improper installation.

What Can I Cover Concrete With?

While there are a variety of materials that can be used to cover concrete, one of the most popular choices is gravel. Gravel acts as an excellent barrier against moisture and weather damage, it’s also resistant to corrosion, and it doesn’t require sealing or maintenance.

One disadvantage of using gravel is that it may not be aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or frequent snowfall, you will need to keep your gravel replaced regularly due to its susceptibility to water infiltration. Another downside is that gravel tends to make walking on Concrete difficult since it causes noise and traction issues when wet.

Can You Build a Raised Deck on a Concrete Slab?

Yes, it is possible to build a raised deck on a concrete slab. However, it is important to keep in mind a few things before beginning this project:

1. Make sure the slab is level – A level slab will ensure that the deck is stable and won’t wobble or creak.

2. Consider the type of decking – You will need to choose a material that will be able to withstand the weather and wear and tear of regular use. Popular choices include wood, composite materials, or metal decking.

3. Get professional help – A professional can help you assess the type of deck that would be best for your needs and help you with the design and installation process.

Why Are They Called Sleeper Logs?

A sleeper log is a type of logging system that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify changes in the behavior or activity of forest trees. The logs are then monitored and collected on an ongoing basis to track changes in forest conditions. By doing this, it is possible to make better decisions about how to manage forestry resources and protect the environment.

Sleeper logs were first developed in response to concerns over climate change and deforestation. As forests around the world continue to dwindle, more accurate information about tree behavior is needed in order for effective conservation strategies can be put into place.

Conclusion

The process of building a deck over concrete is straightforward. Even with the few steps involved, it can be done by anyone who has some basic carpentry skills and time on their hands.

If you’re thinking about starting your project now that winter’s passed, we hope this blog post helped answer any questions or concerns you may have had! At this point, you should feel confident that you know how to build a raised deck over concrete.

Check it out- How to Clean Decking Before Oiling

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