How to Build a Flush Ground Level Decking
When building a new composite deck, you will be considering numerous designs before making a final decision. You have the option to build an elevated deck or construct a ground-level deck. Ground-level decks are typically lower in terms of cost when compared with elevated decks. On the other hand, elevated decks require more materials, and the installation process is more challenging and time-consuming.
What is flush ground-level decking?
You can guess from the name that a flush ground-level decking is one that is close to the ground. This is a very common option for people looking to build decking in their gardens. Also, if you want a deck that will connect your backyard to your home, you can opt for a flush ground-level deck. This kind of decking is fairly easy to build and can be done by an experienced DIYer.
The reason for that is that they don’t require a ladder, railings or steps. Also, depending on where you live, they may not require a permit for the installation. Some elevated decks require planning permission based on your location. Another benefit of a ground-level garden is that they don’t pose any risk—no need to fear that you will fall off your decking when you are walking on it. This may be a serious concern if you have children.
How to Build a Flush Ground-Level Decking
Step 1 Plan Your Decking
The first thing to do when building a flush ground-level decking is to mark or measure the area where you want to build your composite decking. Remember that you are building the decking in your garden, so you have to remove grass from the area. You can do this easily by using a shovel. After removing the grass, you can cover the area with a weed membrane to prevent grass from growing there again.
Make sure the spot is adequately landscaped so that you get an even surface. You have to consider drainage in your garden. Ensure to factor in a gradient for this to make sure that water does not settle on your composite decking. It is imperative that the ground is level before installation.
Step 2 Build the Substructure
Building a substructure might come as a surprise to you because you are building a flush decking that is not high from the ground. Remember that all building materials must have a foundation for them to stay strong on the ground. Some might not recommend it, but we recommend using short-treated wooded posts for the foundation of your decking. The posts should be short and sunk deep into the ground.
Aside from wooden posts, you can use concrete. Just pour concrete at strategic points in the area where you will install your composite decking. This is where you will concrete your posts in. You can then let the concrete set.
Step 3 Build the Joists
Your joists are what you will install your composite decking boards on. You should start with the outer joists.
After joining the outer joists, you can do the same for the inner joists. The planks should intersect if you want a strong substructure. Ensure that the space between them should not be more than 300mm apart. This is to support the composite decking boards.
Step 4 Lay the Composite Decking Boards
Arranging your composite decking boards is the next thing after you have built the joists. It is best to start with the edges of your decking. You should use starter clips for the first composite decking boards.
Starter clips are better when you use them close to the wall. It is the clips that will hold the decking to the joists. After installing the first decking boards, you should use hidden fasteners for the other composite decking boards. Please ensure that the space between the composite decking boards is 8mm apart at the ends of the boards.
Step 5 Cover the Edges of Your Composite Decking
You may want to install composite decking boards as fascia and finish the edges with corner trim.
Conclusion
The best way to build flush ground-level decking is to adhere to the steps we have mentioned.