Can I build a deck directly on the ground?

Yes, you can build a deck directly on the ground, but with some conditions. A deck on the ground must be built with ground-contact wood, and the substructure needs to be adapted for minimal height. The wrong joist and beam material in contact with the ground will quickly rot, making your deck, garbage.

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How much does it cost to build a deck DIY?

How much does it cost to build a deck? For basic deck designs using the least expensive lumber, you can expect to pay from about $8 to $10 per square foot (depending on the material) of deck area if you do the work yourself or pay about $30 per square foot if the material is professionally installed. People also ask how much does it cost to install a deck? The average cost to add a professionally-built wood deck to your home is $14,360, according to Remodeling magazine's 2020 Cost vs. Value report. That same survey found the average cost of a professionally-built composite deck - a material made of recycled wood fibers and plastic - to be $19,856.

Is it a good time to build a deck?

During the fall season you can take advantage of the "off-season" that occurs when many builders aren't receiving as many jobs, making them more available to complete projects than in the spring or summer. Building a deck in fall leads to less of a negative impact on your landscape. You can also ask is cedar better than pressure treated wood? Cedar is stronger and more durable than pressure-treated lumber. Pressure-treated lumber can warp and weather within a few years if left untreated, while cedar is more capable of naturally keeping its shape. However, cedar is more susceptible to cosmetic damages, such as dents and scratches.

Why is pressure-treated lumber cheaper?

Affordability. Pressure-treated wood is notably cheaper than cedar, redwood, and other types of wood. And, because of its durability, you're much less likely to experience a need for costly repairs in the future. It is a great choice for those operating on a smaller budget. Keeping this in consideration, what is the difference between pressure treated wood and regular wood? Pressure treated lumber is no stronger than untreated lumber. The difference between the two is that pressure treated lumber will resist the elements better than untreated due to chemical preservatives added, and so will maintain its integrity in conditions that would cause normal wood to rot.