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A floating deck is quite simple to build. It is also very attractive and adds value to your home. Oftentimes, a floating deck is also known as a “grade-level” deck. The reason for this is that they’re simply built above the ground level, also known as “grade”.

If you add a floating deck in your property, it can offer a much-needed space for a hammock, a grill, a piece of patio furniture, and other amenities for your backyard.

Best Wood for Building a Floating Deck

In building the frame of a floating deck, you should always utilize pressure-treated lumber. It is even a lot better if you can look for ground contact pressure-treated lumber. The additional process that this type of board goes through safeguards them from the extra risk of decline from being so close to the ground. A lot of types of lumber make elegant decking material. You can consider cedar or redwood.

Benefits of a Floating Deck

There are a lot of benefits that you can get whenever you install a floating deck. Aside from the fact that it does not require a building permit, a floating deck is far faster and simpler to build compared to elevated decks. Since they are very close to the ground, they do not require handrails and they do not need frost depth footings. Maintaining and fixing them is simple since a floating deck is just ground-level. Also, you can simply lift up the deck and transfer it to a new area if you want to move it.

Floating Decks and Building Codes

The fact that you likely will not require getting a permit to build it is one of the best advantages of a floating deck. According to the International Residential Code, you will not require a permit for your floating deck if your deck meets the particular criteria. For local regulations, you should always examine with your local building department.

Here are the following criteria you have to follow:

• Your floating deck should not be in front of an egress door.
• Your floating deck should not be attached to your home.
• Your floating deck should not be more than 2.5 feet above the ground.
• Your floating deck should take up less than 200 square feet

A professional Norwich handyman can help you build your dream deck if you don’t have any tools or skills in building one.

Taking Care of Your Floating Deck

After you build your floating deck, you have to take care of it to maintain its beauty. Plan to reseal and pressure wash it each year if you want your deck to keep its texture and color. Every unsealed deck will turn gray and begins to crack over time. Typically, cedar and redwood tend to age better compared to other materials. However, they will fall victim to age eventually. You should think about composite decking instead if you really want a floating deck that requires little maintenance. The wood-resin composite material will keep its original appearance for many years with low maintenance and a little cleaning.