Thursday, December 11, 2008

Building a Ground Level Deck yourselves

Read this post if you want to know
- How to build a ground level deck (10 x 12 to be precise) and
- how much would it cost vs contracting the project to a contractor?

First, lets start with the most important part -cost, effort and then the detailed steps of completing this project.

Note: Before you start working on your deck, make sure you have your HOA approval to build the deck.





Cost
: If you build the deck yourselves - About $500 on Material expenses

A contractor would normally charge you anywhere between $1,500 to $2,500. This may or may not include material cost.
So, if you have some time, interest and are eager to work on your own project then you could save yourselves atleast $1,500. In this economy this isn't a bad deal at all.

Break down - refer to sections below.

Effort: Easy. I built the deck with some help from my family members. So what I am saying is based on my personal experience, it is easy. Nothing to be scared about.

Details about completing this project: Coming soon
  • Step 1- Plan where you deck will come. Roughly mark your plan on ground or just have an idea of where the deck would come.
  • Step 2- You need a base. I bought four concrete blocks, quick set concrete and 4x4 post bases (4). Put the post base in the concrete block in the center, mix the concrete (this was the hardest task in my deck construction) and pour it into the concrete blocks. Let is set for 48 hrs. [Refer to below image to get an idea of how concrete block with post base look like]
  • Step 3 - Dig holes to place these concrete blocks. Hole should be less or about 1 feet from the edge of the wood. [See below]




















Break down of cost; period Oct-nov 2008: Most of the material is purchased at homedepot unless you see Lowes next to a particular cost.
Post Base - 4 pieces @ $9.80/each -> about $40
4 x 8 x 16 Concrete blocks - 4 pieces @ .98 cents each -> $4
Gray/Charcoal holland (small concrete bricks) - 8 pieces @ .41 cents -> $3.5
60 Lb SAKRETE (quick setting concrete mix) - 2 bags @ $2.85 each -> $6
2 x 6 Joisit Hanger - 12 pieces @ .71 cents each -> $9
5/4x 6 x 12 Standard Treated - 24 pieces @ $6.97 -> $168 [ Lowes]
Shims - $1.24 (optional)
Shovel - $9.97
Hanger Nails -
Pressure treated spiral nails -
Weedblock - 48'-50' length - $15 (walmart)
Required tools: Circular Saw, Hammer, Cordless screw driver

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