How to build a low level deck over pavers?

[Borgs]

Hi,

I have an existing alfresco area with concrete brick pavers (60mm deep) that are level and sound. The level from the top of the brick pavers to the sliding door / windows is 55 - 60 mm around the area.  I would prefer to build the deck on top of the pavers to keep the sound level / strength of the base, reduce weeds etc and avoid pulling them up.

I have been researching about low level decking and learning about rot and air flow etc but have some questions.

1.  Since the majority of my deck will be underneath a newly built skillion patio, does it matter about air flow and rot as the area will be dry apart from an occasional wash I guess.

2. Can I lay treated pine 35mm x 70mm joists on the flat so my joist height is 35mm above the pavers?  Laying Ekodeck on that will bring me up to 58mm.  This framing would be my cheapest option?

3.  I have seen the Klevaklip aluminum framing for low level decks - am I better off using this system although I don't think it is compatible with Ekodeck? Is there a better low level framing alternative that would work with the EkoDeck Quickfix system?

5. Would you recommend pulling up the pavers, giving about 120mm height and installing over a timber frame and pedestals?  This would be more time and cost in materials.

Any advice would be appreciated,

Thanks.

[EricL]

Hello @Borgs 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your decking project. 

It's good to hear that you've done your research in regards to building your deck. Allow me to try and answer some of your questions. Airflow is critical when it comes to low-level decks. Trapped moisture can shorten the life of your deck immeasurably, what should have lasted you ten years become six years instead.  

The strength of the 70x35 is in the taller section of the wood. Using the 35mm side means that you'll need to install more supports, and the deck will be prone to moisture damage. I understand your desire to keep the brick pavers as they are flat and easy to install on, but the trade-off is space.

By removing the pavers, you gain a lot of advantages. There is more room for airflow, the timber can be mounted in the right direction, and you have room to adjust the frame gap underneath. Removing the pavers will be extra work, but the long-term benefits means that your deck will last longer.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you have any other question we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[Nailbag]

Hi @Borgs 

I can't say I can add any more to the great advice by @EricL other than the minimum clearance from the underside of the joist to the top of the ground must be a minimum of 50mm. This is both for regulation and reasons Eric highlighted.

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Morning @Borgs 

Im for removing the tiles and probarly the topmost soil/sand that was there. Toatal agreeance with @EricL and @Nailbag as to height from the ground and how important airflow is. I really wouldnt want to go to the effort to install a deck and tehn find that it has issues in a shorter span of years.

Ikea have decking tiles and I am sure there are other types out there, they are small squares that clip together (have a plastic grid backing)

I just had a look and they have expanded their range. I do not know how well or wise it would be to install over pavers but it could help you out of a tight space issue

.

Ikea Timber tiles 

Dave

[Nailbag]

@Dave-1 suggestion isn't a bad idea to consider @Borgs. I installed these ones in a mate off mine's alfresco area. Just need a pretty flat level surface. Took a couple of hours to do a 5m x 6m area with cuts.

Nailbag