Get Started

1 - Identify and Measure the Area

Finding and measuring the area where you plan to build your new Deck should be the first step. Measure the length and width of the area, and make sure that it is leveled and clear of obstacles, stumps and debris.

2 - Identify and Mark up the Area

Once you have measured the area, mark it with a spray paint or landscaping paint. This will allow you to clearly see the area where your deck will be built. This is the last chance to ensure that it is well located and the right size and shape.

3 - Removing the top soil and vegetation

You will need to remove the grass, weeds, and any other vegetation within the desired area, as well as remove any debris, roots, rocks or stumps.

It’s important to have a clear and level surface for your deck blocks to sit on.

Topsoil can expand and contract in moisture and temperature changes.

Removing the top soil will ensure the deck blocks are sitting on compacted stable earth. It’s also important to make sure you’re building on grade level earth, terra firma.

Terra firma, or grade level earth refers to the natural level of the ground before any construction or excavation takes place. It is the surface of the land before any grading, filling, or excavation is done.

4 - Compacting the Ground

Compacting the ground is an important step when building a structure, as it helps to ensure that the foundation is stable and level. It is necessary to compact the ground before laying a foundation, to ensure that it can support the weight of the structure, and to prevent settling, cracking, or other issues.

Common compacting methods for the ground:

Hand Tamper: This is a manual method using a hand tamper to compact the soil by manually striking it with the tamper. It is a good option for small areas or tight spaces where machines can’t reach.

Plate Compactor: A plate compactor uses a large, flat plate to compact the ground. The plate is powered by an engine and is vibrated to compact the soil. It is a good option for larger areas, and it is more efficient than hand tamping.

Rollers: Rollers use a large cylinder or drum to compact the ground. They are often used for compacting soil, gravel, or asphalt and can be either static or vibratory. They are good option for large areas, and they are more efficient than hand tamping or plate compactor.

Tamping Rammer: A Rammer uses a piston to compact the ground. It is generally used to compact soil in tight spaces or in areas where a roller or plate compactor can’t reach.

The method you choose to compact the ground will depend on your specific project. You should consult with a professional landscaper, civil engineer, or contractor to choose the right method and equipment for your project.

5 - Installing a geotextile or weed barrier fabric

Using a geo textile or weed barrier fabric will help to prevent weeds from growing underneath your deck. The textile or fabric is then covered with a layer of crushed stone or paver base.

Weeds can cause several problems when they grow under a deck. Aesthetics issues obviously, but they can also attract insects and rodents as well as cause some allergic reactions

6 - Laying a Gravel Base

Once the weed barrier is installed, you need to lay a gravel base. This will serve as a strong and stable foundation for your deck, and will help to keep it level and stable. Spread a layer of gravel over the area where your deck blocks will be located, using a rake, level it out. Using the above tools, compact the base material, making sure that all the blocks are perfectly aligned and level.

Common types of aggregate used for Base material in deck building:

Crushed Stone: Crushed stone is a type of coarse aggregate that is made from crushed rock. It is often used as a base layer for decks, and is known for its excellent drainage properties. It allows water to flow through easily, while also providing a stable foundation for the deck.

Gravel Base: Gravel is a type of aggregate that is made from small, rounded stones. It is often used as a base layer for decks, and is known for its good drainage properties. It allows water to flow through easily, while also providing a stable foundation for the deck.

Coarse Sand: Coarse sand is sand that is not round. The Sand is a type of fine aggregate that is made from natural materials, such as rock or mineral particles. It is often used as a base layer for decks, and is known for its good drainage properties. Sand can help to fill in any small gaps between the deck boards and can help prevent water from pooling.

Paver base: Paver base is a type of aggregate that is typically used as a base layer for paving projects. It is a mixture of crushed stone, gravel, and sand that is used to create a stable and durable foundation for pavers.

With your ground properly prepared, you are now ready to install your deck blocks.

7 - Deck Block installation

Deck blocks are easy to install and are specifically designed to support decks, terraces, sheds, pathways, and all kinds of outdoor structures.

Finally

Identifying the nature of your soil as well as using the proper installation techniques are very important in order to build a long-lasting structure. These steps outline the process of building a floating deck, on different substrates.

Creating a stable base is extremely important for the performance and longevity of your floating deck.

You’re only a few steps away from enjoying your beautiful new Deck.