How to Use Concrete Deck Blocks to Build a Deck (2024)

FAQs

How to Use Concrete Deck Blocks to Build a Deck? ›

Deck blocks can work well, but you need to consider a few things. Sand or gravel under the blocks works best because these materials don't change with seasonal freeze-and-thaw cycles. They allow water to seep away in the fall, eliminating frost-related heaving in the winter.

Deck blocks can work well, but you need to consider a few things. Sand or gravel under the blocks works best because these materials don't change with seasonal freeze-and-thaw cycles. They allow water to seep away in the fall, eliminating frost-related heaving in the winter.

Precast concrete deck blocks are popular for building decks. Some are made with notches designed to hold standard-sized posts, beams and joists. Precast blocks available at home improvement centers are usually 12 inches square and 8 to 12 inches high.

On concrete you can always lay decking over it as it forms your base. To answer your question I would recommend cement footings with joist stirups in it. so the deck dosnt move when walked on. If it sitting on pavers they might sink and move a bit.

Deck pier blocks are used in deck building as an alternative foundation to traditional footings. They are placed directly on the ground, and do not require digging or pouring. They come pre-formed with holes for attaching the posts of a deck, making it easy to install.

While concrete deck blocks are designed to be placed on the ground and support the weight of a deck, we don't recommend burying them completely. These blocks are typically used as a foundation for above-ground decks, providing a stable base for the deck structure.

After you have laid your weed barrier, you will need to lay a gravel base. This will serve as a foundation for your deck blocks, and will help to keep them level and stable. Spread a layer of gravel over the entire area where your deck will be built, and then use a rake to level it out.

Vulnerability to frost heave: In regions with freezing temperatures, deck blocks can be susceptible to frost heave, where the ground expands and contracts due to freezing and thawing cycles. This movement can result in an uneven and unstable deck.

Can You Build Deck Footings Without Digging? Yes, you can secure deck footings with deck blocks, post anchors with base plates, or ground screws, also called a helical pile system. The deck footing type must meet your local building code, which depends on your area's soil and weather conditions.

Yes, there are products available for anchoring a ledger board to hollow concrete block foundations (concrete masonry unit, CMU). There are a handful of manufacturers that produce epoxy and other adhesive anchors that are tested for use in hollow CMU.

Do concrete deck blocks sink? ›

Due to their relatively small footprint and reliance on the ground's bearing capacity, deck blocks can be prone to instability. In areas with unstable soil conditions or frost heaves like the Upper Midwest, deck blocks may sink over time, leading to an uneven and potentially unsafe deck surface.

Some suggestions were to use lattice, paint the blocks, put a platform or steps for accessing the higher side, add bushes in front, etc.

Yes. Gravel helps support the weight of the deck and prevents shifting or sinking into the ground. It also allows for drainage, which can help prevent rot in wood decks caused by standing water.

Ensure a solid footing. Footings should be a minimum of twice the width of the concrete block (i.e., a typical 8x8x16 block would require a 16-inch wide footing) and extend below the frost line. NOTE: it is important to check local building codes for construction requirements in your area.

Usually made of concrete, these footings can be considered the most important part to building your deck correctly. J&W Lumber recommends using QUIKRETE to build your concrete footings.

After you have laid your weed barrier, you will need to lay a gravel base. This will serve as a foundation for your deck blocks, and will help to keep them level and stable. Spread a layer of gravel over the entire area where your deck will be built, and then use a rake to level it out.

Deck Block Spacing and Requirements

For decks with joists spaced up to 16 inches apart, blocks should ideally be placed every 8 feet or less. This spacing decreases to 6 feet or less for joists spaced further apart, up to 24 inches, which is common in many deck designs.

Installing deck tile on dirt directly is not recommended. If you do wish to lay them on the ground directly, it is recommended that you first put down some crushed gravel and sand. Make sure the sand is well-compacted in the area where you'll be installing the tiles. Snap the tiles together.

If weeds aren't present below the deck, they won't be able to grow up through the decking, which can cause damage. A lack of plant life under the deck also helps deter rodents and other small animals. Gravel is an excellent option if you're looking to make use of the space under your deck.