Revamp Your Outdoor Space With A Floating Deck

In the decking world that’s filled with countless deck patter designs and tips, floating deck design ideas has become increasingly popular in 2018. What are floating decks? Why should you have one installed in your backyard?

What Is A Floating Deck?

Also known as a platform deck, a floating deck is a freestanding deck that can create slightly elevated living area that you can use for various outdoor activities and to spend time with your family and friends. It is like a hybrid of a patio and a deck. Floating decks are usually made of real wood or composite wood, have a level surface, and usually do not have railings.

Why Build A Floating Deck?

There are several reasons why you should consider elevated deck design ideas like a floating deck over the conventional rectangular deck designs. First of all, a floating deck does not need railings, buried posts, or complicated supports that a regular deck needs. Because of all these, floating decks are more affordable because there are fewer materials to buy and they are also easier to install. With the right floating deck design ideas, you may be able to add as much value to your home as a traditional attached deck. All these you can get at a more budget-friendly cost to buy and build. You don’t even have to worry about regular maintenance if you decide to use composite wood.

Additionally, you don’t have to get a permit to build the platform even if you are located in areas where permits are required to build a deck. Compared to attached and elevated decks, floating deck designs are considered to be more versatile. You can choose whatever shape you want and you can even design a platform that has several tiers. Even if they are free standing, a floating deck won’t look out of place compared to a conventional deck that usually looks strange when it is not attached to a home.

How Is It Built?

Floating decks are freestanding platforms that are not anchored to a building or the ground. Depending on how level the property is, a floating deck uses flat cinderblocks or concrete deck blocks as its support. If the ground below the deck does not need to be leveled, then you don’t have to do anything with it. However, if you want to have a higher floating deck, you may have to put some gravel underneath it so it will look nice and clean.

Floating decks is a popular DIY project because they are easy to install and require only a few tools like a drill and circular saw. In terms of materials, you can either use traditional wood or composite wood, which is a very popular eco-friendly option nowadays. Composite or plastic wood and co-extrusion timber, is not only weather resistant but also requires less maintenance compared to the conventional option.

When it comes to its installation, you just have to make a frame with horizontal joints in your desired size and shape. Be sure that the frame is placed firmly on the cinderblocks or deck blocks. Once done, cover the frame using decking boards made of plastic wood to finish the platform. You can modify floating decks with all kinds of extras. Check out floating deck design ideas online and you will find decks with canopies, built-in seating, and many more.

With proper planning, you can make your floating deck design ideas into reality in a couple of days. Unless of course, your design is complicated and involves multiple tiers and more privacy then you’ll definitely have to spend several weekends to complete your project. Regardless of that, floating decks are easier and quicker to install compared to a regular attached deck. So, what are you waiting for? Build one now! You can also contact a professional builder if you need help.