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Decks Close to the Ground

Decks Close to the Ground

We’ve covered the pitfalls of using the incorrect product when building decks close to the ground, in this article, we will be looking at two different product solutions that will help you deliver a beautiful outdoor space for your client while also minimising the risk of call backs.

Choosing the right structure

Apart from selecting the decking material, an important factor when building close to the ground is the structure of the deck.

Pedestal support system for raised floors

Building a deck or raised floor above or on a solid surface can present challenges for constructing support frames, especially on existing floors with waterproof membranes in place or on tiled surfaces.

The Nivo Pedestal system is a range of height adjustable pedestals with a high weight load that is the ideal solution for construction of decks over solid surfaces where strength, durability and ease of installation is important. Perfect for use over waterproof membranes or for renovation of existing tiled or concrete floors. Use with low profile timber or aluminium joists* to achieve a minimal change in floor level from existing to post construction.

Nivo pedestals are also available as a complete system with aluminium joists that clip into a specially designed pedestal adaptor, complete with centre groove on the joist to exactly position deck fixing clips. 

See the StructurAl joist and pedestal system here

H4 Joists

The H4 eXtreme Joist is a new product in the eXtreme Timber collection from our friends at ITI. It uses a blend of new technology and time-proven methods to create timber products that perform in the extreme Australian environment.

eXtreme Joist is perfect for those sleek, low-to-ground decks. Using radiata pine which is one of the most versatile building products available on the market while boasting H4 Copper Azole treatment protecting it from insect and fungal decay. The H4 Treatment by Lonza in eXtreme Joist utilizes BARamine® technology for improved penetration in the wood which equals better protection.

The eXtreme Joist is not designed for in ground use and cannot come into contact with the ground directly, so consideration needs to be given in terms of the support to be used

Preparation

If you’re installing a deck over a surface that’s not concrete finished make sure that the proper preparation for the install has been done. Before installing the posts, bearers and joists, it is important that the ground beneath a deck is completely cleared of all building rubbish, garden debris and obstructions to water or air movement. Water must not be able to pool under the deck and the ground must be sloped away from the foundations of the house. Agricultural drainage pipes may be required in some instances so water can properly flow away from beneath the deck.

*the pedestals are different for use with aluminum joists and are a special order item

 

We recommend using the manufacturer's guidelines when installing the products listed above to avoid warranty issues.