How to build a wooden walkway 1.2m wide?

[Rick3]

Can I get away with two parallel 90 x 45 bearers1.2m apart(the width of the walkway) supported by short posts every meter along the length. Deck will be 90mm wide Merbau deck boards. Walkway will be only slightly above grade.

 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Rick3,

480mm is fine, but the more you go over 450mm, the more bouncy the decking will be. They'll bend under the weight of a person.

Bugle screws for attaching the noggins is perfect.

You could, in effect, use posts sitting directly on top of a solid base such as a paver, so having them embedded even slightly into the ground in concrete should work.

There are no issues working with the slope. However, if it changes gradient mid-run, you might just need to pay attention in those areas in case it causes complications. I think you'll be fine, though.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Rick3]

Thanks Mitchell,

You got me thinking, could I use pavers instead of posts? Even one on top of another.  I think I could make this very stable. 

Rick

[MitchellMc · Accepted solution]

Could do @Rick3. Although a bit more expensive, pavers and then mini pedestal feet are a great way to get a level deck. If you take a look at this guide on How to build a deck, you'll see I used them over pavers.

Mitchell

[Rick3]

Thanks Mitchell,

My idea is the same as in your deck plan but would be actually cheaper. Lay the bearers directly on the pavers or two pavers to raise it a bit more?  The extra paver I expect to be cheaper than a tuff block. What are the concerns with this idea?

Rick

[MitchellMc]

The only concern I have is that without the adjustable pedestal, you need to ensure your pavers are perfectly level @Rick3.

Mitchell