To make a floating deck on a block, you will need the following items: blocks, decking boards, galvanized joist hangers, galvanized nails/screws, and a ledger board. Start by laying out the blocks in the desired shape for the floating deck.
Secure the blocks together with a galvanized construction adhesive. Then, attach the ledger board to the house using galvanized lag bolts or tapcon screws.
Next, attach the galvanized joist hangers to the ledger and install the joists, spaced 16” apart, using galvanized nails or screws. Make sure the screws penetrate the blocks as well as the ledger to ensure a secure attachment.
To finish, lay your decking boards perpendicular to the joists and nail or screw them in place.
Finally, check your work to make sure all boards and joists are securely fastened together, and the deck looks level. A floating deck on a block is a great way to add outdoor living space to your home, and is relatively simple to install.
How far apart should deck blocks be for floating deck?
It is recommended that deck blocks be spaced no further than 4 feet apart when constructing a floating deck. This is because deck blocks are designed to act as individual mini footings, so if the blocks are spaced too far apart the deck boards may become bowed or the deck may sag over time.
In areas with higher load requirements (such as for hot tubs) it may be necessary to space the deck blocks closer than 4 feet apart. Additionally, it is important to check with local building codes for any additional requirements or restrictions on floating decks in your area.
How many deck blocks do I need for a 12×12 floating deck?
The number of deck blocks you will need for a 12×12 floating deck depends on several factors. Firstly, the deck’s size and shape. A 12×12 floating deck would generally require a minimum of 16 deck blocks to provide enough support, assuming the deck is perfectly square.
If your deck has multiple shapes or curves, you may need more blocks to support the non-square areas and ensure that the deck is evenly supported.
Secondly, you should also consider the type of material you are using for the deck. If you are using heavier materials such as concrete, you may need a few more blocks to ensure proper support. The weight of the materials will determine how many deck blocks you need, so be sure to factor this in when calculating your needs.
Lastly, you should consider the spacing between the blocks. Generally speaking, deck blocks should be spaced no more than 8 feet apart – so if your 12×12 floating deck is larger than 8 feet in any one direction, you will need more blocks to provide enough support.
In summary, the number of deck blocks you will need for a 12×12 floating deck depends on its size, shape, the materials you are using, and the spacing between the blocks. Generally speaking, you will need a minimum of 16 deck blocks to provide sufficient support, but you may need more depending on the details of the project.
Can you put deck blocks on ground?
Yes, you can put deck blocks on ground, as long as the ground is leveled and compacted. Deck blocks are pre-cast concrete blocks, also referred to as pier blocks or foundation blocks, that are used when building an outdoor deck or structure.
They are placed directly on the ground and serve as a stable foundation for the deck. Ensure that the ground is level and compacted before setting the deck blocks. Leveling may require some digging to flatten the ground and the use of a shovel or rake to even it out.
Use a tamper, or rented machine compactor, to further compact the soil. Once the ground is leveled and compacted, begin setting the deck blocks. Use a carpenter’s square or line level to adjust and level the deck blocks as needed.
The deck blocks should be spaced evenly apart, with each block approximately 8 feet apart. Finally, use a extra piece of lumber to level out each deck block.
What goes under deck blocks?
Underneath deck blocks, there should be a solid foundation of gravel, sand, and/or soil to create a stable base that can evenly support the weight of the deck. The sub-base material should extend beyond the footprint of the deck, at least 6 inches further than the outermost deck post, to ensure a solid foundation.
The depth should be appropriate to the type and weight of the materials used in your deck, and the expected environmental conditions of where the deck is situated. For example, if using a heavier composite material and building in an area with extreme weather conditions, a deeper base material should be used.
Additionally, to ensure that the structure’s stability, there should be a minimum of two deck blocks underneath each deck post.
To summarize, under deck blocks, a solid foundation should be created that extends beyond the footprint of the deck, appropriate to the type and weight of the materials and conditions of the area. Two deck blocks should be placed beneath each deck post for stability.
How high can a deck be with deck blocks?
Most deck blocks provide a maximum 12″ height and support a homeowners ability to create structures that never exceed 36″ in overall height. Because deck block foundations are not load bearing, these structures need to be placed upon a foundation that is either attached to the main home structure by way of posts, or a road-grade concrete pad.
One unique advantage of using deck blocks is the ability to adjust the overall height of the building by either using 2 blocks, or 2 layer of blocks. Deck blocks are a great option for low elevation decks or patios however, they should never be used to support a roof, hot tub, or any portion of the deck that is more than 4′ in height.
It is important to note that each local building department has its own allowable height requirements so be sure to do your research and contact your local office should you have any specific questions.
Can I use concrete deck blocks instead of footings?
Yes, you can use concrete deck blocks instead of footings in many cases. Concrete deck blocks are ideal for low-level decks that do not require deep footings and can be used in place of concrete footings.
The blocks typically measure 4x4x16 inches and are set in the ground and spaced 4 to 6 feet apart. When building low-level decks, the blocks should be buried 6-8 inches below the frost line. When used correctly, they offer a quick, easy and affordable way to build a deck.
And, because they are easily removable, they can also make seasonal deck maintenance a breeze.
Where do you put blocks on a deck?
When building a deck, the blocks should be put on each of the four corners of the deck, with one block in the center. It is important to place the blocks in these locations to create maximum stability and ensure your deck is well-supported.
Make sure to level the blocks if they are not completely leveled on their own. The blocks should be secured to the foundation using treated wood screws, metal angle brackets, and/or concrete anchors.
When putting blocks on the deck, make sure to leave a few inches of space between the block and the joists. This will help prevent the deck from shifting, which can cause damage or instability. Additionally, by having clearances, proper drainage of the deck can take place.
Always use caution when using tools and hardware on the deck.
Do I need deck blocks on every joist?
No, you do not necessarily need deck blocks on every joist. Deck blocks provide a support system that adds stability and durability to your deck. Deck blocks are ideal when you’re building a new deck and you do not have any existing posts or columns to provide foundational support.
Deck blocks should be used in smaller, raised decks and those with low snow-load capacity. If you’re building a larger deck or one with a higher snow-load capacity, then you should use concrete footings or posts and columns.
It all depends on the size and weight of your deck as well as how long you plan on it lasting. Ultimately, it’s best to follow the instructions of your deck-building kit and consult with a professional if you’re unsure of how to correctly support your deck.
Can I build a deck without digging holes?
Yes, it is possible to build a deck without digging holes. One option is to use deck blocks. Deck blocks are precast concrete blocks that are designed to be used as deck supports without the need of digging.
They are easy to install and can be placed on almost any surface. Another option is to use a deck footing system. This system typically uses beams, footings and posts that interlock together rather than needing to be anchored in soil.
This system can be used on almost any surface as well and is often customizable depending upon the deck dimensions. Both deck block and deck footing systems have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to research both and choose the option that works best for your needs.
Are deck blocks a good idea?
Deck blocks can be a good idea for many projects. Depending on the nature of the project, deck blocks may be preferable to more traditional concrete footings. While they are not suitable for all applications, they can offer some advantages over traditional footings in certain scenarios.
The most notable advantage of deck blocks is convenience; they are easy to install and don’t require heavy equipment. Deck blocks also offer flexibility in design, allowing for a variety of shapes and sizes to be supported.
They are also relatively inexpensive in comparison to traditional concrete footings.
One potential downside to using deck blocks is that they are not suitable for supporting large structures, or those carrying a significant load. This is because the blocks are not typically bolted to the ground, and only buries a few inches underneath the surface.
Thus, it is important to ensure that any structure supported by deck blocks is appropriate for the load capacity of the product.
Overall, deck blocks can be a good idea for many projects. However, it is important to consider the type of project, and the load it will be subject to, before making a decision. If the project is suitable for the load capacity of the blocks, then it can be an effective and efficient solution.
How many square feet is a 10×12 shed?
A 10×12 shed is 120 square feet. It is the equivalent of a 10-foot square with 12-foot sides, or a 12-foot square with 10-foot sides. This provides the shed with plenty of room for storage with its spacious 120 square feet of floor space.
How much would it cost to build a 10×12 shed?
The total cost of building a 10×12 shed depends on several factors, including the shed’s location, size, materials, and finishes. Generally speaking, the average price to build a shed of this size is between $1,000 and $6,000, depending on the specifics of the project.
Although a 10×12 shed is relatively small, building it can be a complex project.
The cost of materials to construct the shed is usually the most significant factor and can range from $800 to $3,000 or more. The type of materials you use will determine the overall price. For instance, the cost of a basic wood frame will be significantly less than the cost of a stone and wood frame.
You’ll also need to factor in the cost of necessary supplies and equipment, such as nails, screws, saws, and other tools.
The cost of labor also needs to be considered, as it can range from $200 to $2,000 or more. You can attempt to build the shed yourself, but most people choose to hire a professional, as the task requires some basic carpentry skills.
If a professional builder is hired, their rates will factor into the total cost. Additionally, the location of the shed can affect the price, as permits, professional reviews, and inspections may be required, depending on your municipality.
Finally, the cost of any finishes, such as doors and windows, needs to be factored in. If you choose to include these features, the cost of the shed can quickly increase.
In conclusion, the total cost of building a 10×12 shed can range from around $1,000 to more than $6,000, depending on the type of materials used, any labor costs, the location, and any included features.
How do you anchor tuff blocks?
Tuff blocks are an interlocking block-like system used for retaining walls and other landscaping projects. To properly and securely anchor tuff blocks, it is important to understand their interlocking design.
To begin the process, the foundation should be level and flat. Next, you must install a drain pipe to allow water to pass through the wall. The drain pipe should enter and exit the wall at the bottom.
Once the foundation is prepped and the drain is installed, you can start to lay the blocks.
The tuff blocks should be laid in a staggered pattern so the joints of the blocks do not form a straight line. This staggered pattern allows the blocks to interlock and provide stability. As each course is added, the blocks must be backfilled with compacted soil up to the next row.
This will create enough stability to support the wall even if the soil content is low. The final step for anchoring tuff blocks is to secure them with specialized steel pins. These pins are embedded in the soil and run through the blocks, thus locking all of the blocks together in a tight fit.
Once installed, these blocks will create a sturdy and long-lasting containing wall!.
Does a floating deck need footings?
Yes, a floating deck needs footings. Just like any other type of deck, a floating deck will require footings to support the deck and keep it level and stable. Floating decks are typically built low to the ground and are not connected to the house, so the footings need to be strong enough to support the load of the structure and the people who will be using it.
The depth of the footings also need to be deep enough, as a floating deck will be more prone to movement than a traditional deck is. If the deck is built on soil, then the footings need to be around 8 inches deep, with the width of the footing being twice the width of the post that will be attached to it.
If the deck is being built over a gravel pad or concrete, then the footings need to be around 12 inches deep. It is always recommended to speak to a building professional to ensure the footings are placed correctly and are of the correct size and depth.