How to build a low-level deck?

Mitch_C

Hi, I am looking to add decking to my patio area, I currently have a paved area approximately 2.7m x 11m and wanted to deck over this, but I only have a height difference of 40mm were my door frame is. These are double doors that open out.

I have already removed 2.5m x 11m of paving running next to this area so I can add grass and garden beds.

is there an easy option to deck this or will I need to remove the pavers and take the soil down? if so will the potential grass area also need to come down?

thanks

EricL

Hello @Mitch_C

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's marvellous to have you join us, and thank you for sharing your question about low-level decking.

I'm afraid 40mm is not enough space to match the possible height of your decking. For example, if you were to use 90x45 timber framing plus the height of composite decking (23mm) you would have a deck thickness of 113mm. Ideally you would want at least a gap of 200mm underneath your deck to facilitate good air circulation. It would not be ideal to have the deck taller than the door as it becomes a trip hazard anytime someone wanted to go out on the deck.

It will be necessary to remove the pavers and dig into the soil to provide the proper space for your low-level deck. You'll also have to consider the weedmat and the drain gravel under the deck. It's necessary to have good drainage underneath so that water does not sit under your deck and ruin the timber framing.

I suggest having a quick look at these guides - How to build a low-level deck by @Adam_W and How to build a deck by @MitchellMc.

Both these guides should give you an idea of how to plan your deck.

Here is a link for ideas and inspiration: Inspiring low-level deck builds.

Here is a good example of a deck where the ground has been dug out: Low-level Merbau deck with French drain by @melbs.

I also suggest having a look at the Bunnings guide on how to build a deck:

I'll stop here so that you won't get too confused with too much information. I suggest sketching out a basic plan with pen and paper. In this manner, you'll have a very good idea of how to lay the drainage and in which direction the decking frame will be facing.

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

Eric