Ground-level decks create a spacious and breezy atmosphere in your backyard. You have the freedom to make them as straightforward or as elaborate as your heart desires. Unlike elevated or raised decks, ground-level decks offer the flexibility to be constructed anywhere in your yard. With no need for construction labor, you can enjoy greater flexibility in deciding the perfect location for your new deck.
What Is the Cost to Build a Ground Level Deck?
The deck design type influences the deck building costs. Elevated, second story, and multi-level decks take longer to build and require scaffolding, which increases costs.
Cost to Build a New Deck by Type (per square foot installed)
| Deck Design Type | Cost per Square Foot Installed* |
|---|---|
| Ground-level / platform (Attached) | $25 – $30 |
| Detached / floating (Freestanding, no railings, no stairs) | $20 – $25 |
| Elevated (Attached) | $30 – $50 |
| Second story (Attached) | $50 – $60 |
| Multi-level (Attached) | $60 – $100 |
*Average prices for new deck construction with common local wood types only.
Ground-Level or Platform Deck
A ground-level or platform wooden deck costs $25 to $30 per square foot installed for a simple patio-style design attached to the home. These decks are less than 30″ to 36″ tall, so a railing is optional rather than a requirement. Prices increase depending on the number of steps.
Footers that go below the frost line are important on a platform deck to keep it level with the attached home. Freezing ground can otherwise push up the deck posts to make it uneven and cause cracks in the decking.
Prices will increase if you need bigger reinforced footers under a ground-level platform deck for heavy items on it like a pergola or hot tub.
How To Build A Deck Around An Above Ground Pool
Wear the proper personal safety equipment before starting any do-it-yourself job. Gloves, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, reinforced toe shoes, eye and ear protection, and other protective gear are advised. Keep a first aid kit close at hand at all times.
First Step
Depending on the location, height, and size of your deck, you may need to check with your local municipality for ordinances and permit needs. That’s when you’ll get the knowledge you need.
Step Two
Electricity is required for the pool’s circulating pump. Where is the nearest electrical outlet or source? Consult your local municipality for code requirements as burying the electrical line may require conduit and possibly an electrical permit.
Step Three
Pool safety is crucial. Limit who has access to the pool so that small children cannot go in unattended.
Step Four
Important factors to take into account are insurance and the liability of having a pool on the property. Make sure there is coverage in case of any unanticipated occurrences by checking with your insurance provider. Verify whether a pool is permitted in the neighborhood with your homeowners association, if appropriate.
Step Five
Pay strict attention to the installation instructions provided by the pool manufacturer. This can maintain the warranty and save time.
Step Six
Starting as close to level as feasible will reduce the quantity of digging required because the pool needs to be as level as possible. Your local municipality will define a setback to the property line, so make sure to maintain the appropriate distance from it.
If there is a slope on your property, evaluate it first to see if hand digging or machinery will be required. It might be necessary to use excavation equipment if the property has a significant slope.
Look for the most level area. This will reduce the quantity of excavation required to create a level base upon which the pool can rest.
Conclusion
In this piece, you learned about the cost to build a ground-level deck and how to build a deck around an above-ground pool. For more interesting guides, stay connected to Buildersviller.