What Is A Floating Deck?
A floating deck is a more flexible, economical, and creative type of deck. It is also commonly referred to as a freestanding deck or ground-level deck. It is not attached to a house or any other structure. A floating deck is supported by concrete blocks, pavers, or gravel and is placed directly on the ground. As a result, it has become a popular DIY project that typically does not require a permit.
Common uses for floating decks include outdoor living areas, garden paths, and deck renovations. This article will explore in depth what a floating deck is, as well as its advantages and disadvantages.
Table of Contents
What is a Floating Deck?
A floating deck is an outdoor deck that appears to “float” both visually and structurally. It stands out because of its independent and low-profile design. A floating deck is stable on the ground because it is held up by its own weight and strength.
Most of the time, pressure-treated wood or composite decking is used to build floating decks. The support system is not a typical poured concrete base. Instead, it is made up of concrete pads, decking bricks, or a layer of crushed stone that is packed down below.
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Pros and Cons of Floating Decks
Before deciding to build a floating deck, you need to fully understand its advantages and disadvantages.
Undeniable Advantages
Most families who choose floating decks do so because they value the following benefits:
- Cost-effective: With a floating deck, you don’t have to pay a lot of money to dig a foundation, pour concrete, place joists, and waterproof them. Because of this, the costs of materials and labor are much cheaper than for a fixed deck of the same size.
- Quick to Build: Fans of do-it-yourself projects can finish this one in a weekend without having to use heavy machines or special tools.
- Zero Risk to the Home’s Structure: Installing joists requires drilling holes in the exterior walls of the house. If waterproofing is not done properly, this can easily lead to structural damage and leaks. Since a floating deck is completely independent, this risk does not exist. It is particularly suitable for homeowners who do not wish to alter the original structure of their home.
- Freedom of Location: This is the most appealing aspect of a floating deck. You can build your deck deep within the garden to enjoy the shade in the afternoon. You can also build it in a secluded corner away from the house to create a private space for meditation.
- Portability: Although not easy, a floating deck can theoretically be dismantled and relocated. If you change the layout of your patio in the future, it can be moved to another area.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
However, when choosing a floating deck, you should also be aware of the following potential risks.
- Risk of Foundation Shifting and Unevenness: The concrete blocks that hold up the deck may settle unevenly if the base isn’t properly prepared or if the area has a lot of freeze-thaw cycles. This could make the deck surface curve or be bumpy. Because of this, frequent checks and adjustments are needed.
- Weed Growth Issues: Floating decks are either put on the ground or rest on a thin layer of dirt. So, the room below stays dark and damp, which makes it perfect for weeds and even bugs and rodents looking for a place to nest. During building, a good garden weed barrier fabric must be put down, and a layer of gravel must be put down thick enough to stop plants from growing.
- Ventilation and Rot Issues: The low-profile frame makes it hard for air to flow under the deck. It’s hard for moisture to escape, which speeds up the decay of the wooden frame and decks. Because of this, it is suggested to use composite wood decking that doesn’t rot as easily and to cover the frame with waterproof tape.
- Aesthetic Limitations: Floating decks are usually pretty easy because of how they are built. Multi-level designs, ones with canopies, and ones with complicated stairs are hard to build. Most of the time, it looks more like a stage than a big building.
Comparison of Floating Decks and Fixed Decks
Fixed decks and floating decks are very different in how they are built, how much they cost, what rules they have to follow, and how much care they need. The following is a comparison of these things.
Connectivity
First, floating decks and fixed decks differ in how they are connected to the building.
- Floating Deck: Completely independent. While there may be a visual connection to the house, or it may even be physically adjacent to the house, there is no structural connection between the two.
- Fixed Deck: Typically secured firmly to the exterior walls of the house using joists and bolts. This makes the deck an integral part of the house’s structure.
Foundation Requirements
The two types of decks also have significantly different requirements regarding the structure and depth of the foundation.
- Floating Deck: Shallow foundation. Typically, only the topsoil needs to be removed, followed by the placement and compaction of crushed stone. Concrete blocks or footings are then placed on top of the crushed stone layer. The deck frame is mounted on these footings.
- Fixed Deck: Needs strong, long-lasting roots. The digging has to go below the frost line. Concrete piers are cast, and metal footings are put in place to support the posts. This makes sure that the deck will be stable and able to hold weight for a long time.
Height and Location
The height and position of most floating decks also differ significantly from those of fixed decks.
- Floating Deck: Almost always close to the ground, typically no more than two steps high. It can be placed in any corner of the yard, regardless of how far it is from the house.
- Fixed Deck: Height is flexible, but its location is necessarily constrained by the house.
Regulations and Permits
In most areas, construction projects exceeding a certain size require a permit. In this regard, the requirements for floating decks differ from those for fixed decks.
- Floating Deck: One of its greatest advantages is that no permit is required. In the building codes of many regions, platforms that are below a certain height and not attached to the house are considered temporary or non-structural structures. They typically do not require a building permit. This greatly simplifies the process, saving both time and money.
- Fixed Deck: A building permit is required in almost all areas. This is because its structural safety directly impacts the attached house. Therefore, construction must undergo rigorous review to ensure it can withstand loads such as wind and snow and does not compromise the house’s waterproofing.
Return on Investment
A deck is not only a space for outdoor activities; it can also add value to a home. This depends on the deck’s design and size.
- Floating Deck: Due to its independence and relatively simple structure, it is generally not considered an extension of the house. Consequently, when selling a property, the increase in property value is generally less than that of a fixed deck. However, it remains a highly attractive selling point for the patio.
- Fixed Deck: It is considered a direct extension of the home’s living space and can significantly increase the home’s usable area. A high-quality, well-designed fixed deck typically yields a higher return on investment.
Conclusion
Floating decks are a great way to enjoy outdoor life in the 21st century. They don’t fit the idea that a traditional deck has to be connected to a house.
Floating decks are a creative, cost-effective way to make your idea come to life, whether you want to make a quiet place to relax or a place where people gather by the pool. Feel free to get in touch with us if you want to know more about outdoor decks. If you need high-quality composite decks, EVODEK has what you need.
FAQ
Will a Floating Deck Shift or Warp?
Generally, a well-constructed floating deck will not shift or warp. Due to its heavy structure and the rigorous foundation preparation during installation, a floating deck is firmly anchored to the ground. At the outset of installation, contractors will level the ground, lay down weed barrier fabric, and use special concrete blocks to prepare the site.
All these precautions ensure the deck’s stability. However, if necessary, a floating deck can still be dismantled and moved relatively easily.
How Much Weight can a Floating Deck Support?
A well-constructed floating deck can support approximately 50 pounds of live load per square foot, which is sufficient for people and outdoor furniture. However, special structural reinforcement is required if you plan to place heavy items such as hot tubs.
How can I Prevent Weeds from Growing Under The Deck?
Before laying the gravel, be sure to install a layer of high-quality, puncture-resistant garden weed barrier. The weed barrier stops sunlight so seeds can’t germinate, but it lets water pass through so the ground doesn’t get too wet.
Covering the weed barrier with a sufficiently thick layer of gravel further prevents plant growth. If you notice a few weeds sprouting through the gaps, you can pull them out by hand or use an eco-friendly herbicide.
Do Floating Decks Require Railings?
This depends on the deck’s height. Low decks less than 30 inches above ground typically do not require railings. A railing-free design maintains an unobstructed view and is better suited for garden relaxation areas or children’s play areas.
If the deck is more than 30 inches above the ground, installing railings is strongly recommended for safety reasons. Railings are an essential safety measure, especially if there are children or elderly people in the household. Please consult your local building codes for specific requirements regarding railing height and spacing.
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