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HomeBuildCan A Deck Be Built Over A Concrete Patio

Can A Deck Be Built Over A Concrete Patio



How To Install Composite Decking Over Concrete

A concrete stoop with steps can be a formidable obstacle when trying to build a deck. A massive concrete stoop will be difficult to remove. Most of the time you will need to break the concrete apart using a sledgehammer or jackhammer and haul the debris away. Many people choose to build over the stoop instead.

Can You Build A Patio Over A Leach Field

4/5Buildingover a septic fieldover a septic fieldfield lines


– A full foundation must be 10 feet from the septic tank and 20 feet from the leaching area. – A slab foundation such as a garage must be 10 feet from the septic tank and 10 feet from the leaching area. – Concrete columns for a deck must be 5 feet from the leaching area and not disturb the septic system.

Furthermore, can you put pavers over drain field? You can put pavers over a concrete septic tank, and if you so desire, you can probably put them over the lid too. The concrete tanks can usually withstand around 10,000# on them.

Consequently, can I build over a leach field?

It is not recommended to build over the septic tank or leach field. Access to the tank is necessary for inspection and maintenance. Building over leach fields can compact soils or damage the underground apparatus and cause the septic system to fail.


How do you build a leach field?

How to Make a Leach Field

  • Locate your septic tank and uncover the distribution box.
  • Decide where to dig your trenches.
  • Clearly mark the trenches with spray paint.
  • Dig the trenches.
  • Lay straight perforated pipes in the trenches.
  • Cover the trenches with a layer of straw.
  • Plant grass over the top of the leach field.
  • Solve Water Problems First

    This corner of the patio had settled by more than 2 in. over the years. That meant a big reservoir after rain—and water in the basement. So we filled the reservoir with exterior-grade self-leveling compound. After the first batch hardened, we poured on a thin coat and gave it a slight slope so water would run away from the house.


    Self-leveling compound hardens fast, so you can get on with the project. But it’s also expensive. If you’re not in a rush, you can get similar results for less than one-third the cost with concrete topping mix such as Sakrete Top ‘n Bond or Quikrete Sand/Topping Mix.

    We also took a couple of other water-fighting steps. To prevent water from seeping down along the foundation, we caulked the gap between the patio and the house. At the other end of the patio, a corner of the slab had sunk slightly below the level of the soil and rainwater pooled there. To correct that, we shaved off the sod with a spade, dug out a couple of inches of soil and replaced the sod.

    Can You Install Composite Decking Directly Onto Concrete

    An existing concrete patio will make your deck installation much easier and faster, and you can install your deck directly onto the concrete.


    You will want to account for water drainage and material expansion/contraction, so it is best to place boards called ‘sleepers’ underneath the deck. It is also a good idea to add small spacers between the sleepers and the concrete patio.

    • When you install your sleepers, keep them no more than a foot apart. You want to provide as much support for the top planks as you can, and too much distance can leave your deck feeling unstable and springy. It can even be dangerous – nobody wants to put a foot through the deck.
    • Some composite decking can be installed directly onto concrete without sleepers. In this case, you will want to make sure your patio is very level and well settled. If your concrete patio sinks an inch in various places over the years, so will your deck. Do yourself a favor and check the manufacturer installation guide before you decide on a deck built flush to the concrete.
    • In either case, there will be a need to attach some elements to the concrete. To do this, you will need to drill holes and add plastic anchors to the concrete. Regular nails and screws will not attach to concrete.

    You Can Build A Floating Deck Over Concrete Very Quickly And Easily

    Decor of Deck Over Concrete Patio Outdoor Concrete Patios ...

    Floating decks don’t take as much work as a fixed deck. They are elevated a bit above the ground and they can be moved from one area of your yard to another. This kind of deck takes a little work but gets easier as you go along.”– Articles for Small Businesses

    Floating decks offer an effective means of camouflaging a concrete slab. However, many busy professionals shy away from the prospect of building a floating deck because they mistakenly assume the building process will require excessive time and energy. To dispel these worries, our DIY DeckCell product is extremely quick and easy to install for even a novice. Here are just a few of the ways that DIY DeckCell will help you save time:

    • You will not have to wait weeks or months for a deck specialist to install your deckYou will receive your new DeckCell promptly, enabling you to begin installation at your convenience
    • You will receive your new DeckCell promptly, enabling you to begin installation at your convenienceDeckCell installation is much faster and easier than the installation of timber or steel sub-frame decking
    • DIY saving you thousands of dollars
    • DeckCell installation is much faster and easier than the installation of timber or steel sub-frame decking – even for a novice!

    Paint Or Stain Your Concrete Patio

    If you just want to add a little flavor to your outdoor space, adding some color to your patio might be just the thing. There are plenty of options here, from a simple coat to diagrams and scoring. Here are just a few ideas.


    Score Lines to Add Depth

    Decide on a pattern, then use a chalk line to ‘draw’ the diagram onto the concrete.

    • Use a diamond-tipped blade on a circular saw with a depth about 1/8” to carve straight lines into the concrete.
    • Once you add the color, you’ll be able to create alternating color patterns, abstract blocking, or just give the illusion of paving stones.

    Tape Off Sections for A Tapestry Effect

    If you don’t love the idea of cutting grooves into your old concrete patio, you can still get those cool color sections by taping off sections. You can simply use painter’s tape and apply your color sections one block at a time. Taping instead of scoring adds considerable flexibility for designing shapes – you may not even have to stick to straight lines!

    Paint or Stain?

    The difference between paint and stain essentially comes down to where the color goes. Paint sits on top of the concrete and provides a layer of color. Paint will allow you the greatest flexibility for vibrant color. If you’re an artist, you can even create a mural directly onto your patio.

    Step 5: Adding Storage Benches


    The benches are of an extremely simple design and don’t take long at all to construct. They are basically 17″ tall and 17″ deep , and the tops are hinged in order to provide storage room. I used 5/4″ x 6″ material to cover the sides and for the seating area; basically flooring material, so that the two would match.The frame of the benches is constructed of 2″ x 3″ beams, and then covered on the sides with flooring material and attached to the deck by driving screws diagonally through the bottom square of the bench directly into the deck. The cover then has it’s own frame made out of 2″ x 2″ beams with more flooring screwed on to it in top.To attach the cover and install hinges, I added a 2″ x 3″ beam lying on its side and running along the entire back of the bench. This hinge beam has to be very strongly attached as you’ll have the seats swinging off of it . I glued it down, added metal brackets and screws on the front and 3″ screws running diagonally through the back and into the sides of the bench .Once the hinge beam is set up, measure the size for the seat frame, and then just make a square made out of 2″ x 2″ beams. Attach flooring material to the top of the frame and you’re done. The hinges I used were regular door hinges that were safe to use on treated wood, out of the same concern with the ACQ approved screws. I just chose steel hinges that were coated in weather resistant paint.Attach the hinges to the seat covers and hinge beam , and you’re done. 

    What Is A Deck

    A deck is a raised platform that can be made of different materials, which include pressure-treated lumber, wood, PVC, composite, and more. However, here the focus will be on wood decks. A deck can sit high above the ground raised by posts and accessed via a staircase or be built low to the ground raised only by joists.


    Deck Fastener Options Face Fastening Or Hidden Fasteners

    Fiberon decking materials are designed to be installed with either face screws or hidden fasteners. Phantom hidden fasteners are specifically designed for Fiberon side-grooved boards and provide a smooth, fastener-free surface.

    Face fastening can be accomplished with hidden or regular surface fastening screws. Cortex hidden face fasteners are installed on the surface and have deck plugs that cover the screw heads for a virtually fastener-free look. Stainless steel composite deck screws can be used for surface fastening; however, pre-drilling is recommended to prevent ends from splitting and will result in a better looking finished project. Follow installation instructions carefully for a flush finish with the deck surface. For decks using metal joisting, specialized surface fasteners are required that install at a 90-degree angle only.

    You Can Help Preserve Our Environment

    Environmentally conscious property owners are often delighted to know that they can build a floating deck that is made with recycled materials. By using a durable Capped Composite Decking product, to build your deck, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with using a product that was manufactured using sustainable processes and that does not contain harmful chemicals.

    Tips For Proper Storage And Installation Tips For Composite Deck Boards

    In order to protect your investment from the start, it’s important to store your composite boards in a level area. Keep products off the ground and covered on a flat, dry surface. Dark colors will absorb more heat than lighter colors and as such, will experience greater ranges in expansion/contraction.The following preparation and installation procedures will result in less visible gapping:

  • Keep boards out of direct sun during storage and cutting processes, and through to installation, if possible. Never cut and install boards in direct sun assuming them to be at ambient temperature.
  • Longer boards have greater thermal expansion and contraction. Use short boards where possible for less visible gapping.
  • There is less thermal expansion and contraction along the width of the board as opposed to the length. Using splitter/divider boards between each continuous run of boards will result in less gapping.
  • Thermal expansion and contraction of the material can allow the boards to shift. Surface-fastening using heavy gauge quality composite deck screws will help keep the material in place.
  • Floating Decks Promote Enjoyment

    Three out of four homeowners said they have a greater desire to be home since completing the project. Some 51% have an increased sense of enjoyment when they are at home, and 77% feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project. These responses earned decks a “joy score” of 9.7%.”– Steve Cook, Editor and Co-publisher of Real Estate Economy Watch

    Results of wide-scale studies show that most property owners install decks to improve the property’s functionality and livability. Additionally, the majority of homeowners indicate that installing a deck gives them a sense of enjoyment and accomplishment.

    Does A Deck Require Footings

    installing a deck over your patio

    As mentioned before, it’s always a great idea to have your large decks supported by footings so that it doesn’t get destroyed after you spent a lot of money building it. But this rule only really applies to large decks because smaller decks that are a few inches off of the ground can sit securely on concrete blocks, which should be reinforced with some rebar.

     

    When it comes to floating decks, which are decks that are built very close to the ground, they don’t need any sort of footing. You can either use small concrete blocks and planks, or you can use a post that sets into a pre-formed hole.

     

    Tips For Building A Deck Over Concrete

    It’s become more and more common over recent years for homeowners to replace their concrete patios with something more attractive and easier to maintain, such as a composite deck. Some may wonder if you can lay Trex composite decking over concrete. The answer is yes but, first, we suggest you check with your local building office for any code requirements.

    Here are a few key factors to consider when building a deck over concrete.

    Selecting A Trusted Deck Expert

    As outlined above, there are many reasons to enhance your home or business with a floating deck. Once you decide to take the plunge and install a deck, you need to make sure that you seek the guidance of a trusted decking expert. As not all deck providers are created equal, it is important to carefully evaluate providers to ensure that you make the best choice. Ideally, the provider you choose should offer the following:

    Composite decking manufactured in the United States

    A strong international presence

    Installing Composite Decking On The Concrete Slab

    Placing decking boards on sleepers is nearly identical to building them on a regular deck. It’s important to follow manufacturer’s instructions for installing decking. In general, starting from the outside of the deck and moving inward, screwing accent boards into place first. Starting with accent boards can help guide the addition of field boards.

    Floating Decks Are Eye

    Still other homeowners opt to build a floating deck partly or fully around a water feature. In other words, they use it as both a functional space and as an expanded focal point.”– The Berryman Design Group

    In addition to enhancing your property’s versatility and living space, floating decks are captivating in their appearance. Capped composite decking boards products feature a unique pattern on the top and bottom of each board, offering an effective combination of durability and visual variety. Additionally, because they can be transported, you can easily reposition or relocate your floating deck.

    Should I Build A Low Level Deck Over An Existing Concrete Slab Or Install Paver Stones

    Concrete Patio Slab and Threshold Elevation Closeup

    Concrete Patio Slab Perspective View

    Backyard View of Building Site And Working Space

    I want to build a ground level deck in my backyard to cover an existing concrete patio slab that is 3×8 and 5″ thick.I am having trouble figuring out how to cover the patio slab since I only have 2-½” from the slab to the bottom of the threshold. I attached pictures to give you a better idea of what my current patio and the space restrictions look like. I want to build a floating 18×11 deck that is not connected to the ledger. I live in Southern California so I don’t have to worry about placing the footing below the frost lines or anything like that.

    Placing & Installing Sleepers

    Sleepers can be placed directly on the concrete, or they can be set apart with ½” PVC spacers. Sleepers can also be level or sloped, as long as their surface forms a single flat plane. Starting from the highest point in your patio, place your first sleeper in position, using plastic shims to raise low spots if necessary.

    Use a hammer drill to pre-drill into the spacers, sleepers, and concrete. Secure with concrete screws, penetrating no less than 1” into the concrete. Place additional sleepers in the same manner, using a straight-edge to ensure each is consistent with the last. Finally, use flashing tape to cover the topside of each sleeper.

    Pros And Cons Of Decks

    Pros: You could build your own deck if you are a little bit handy and have the right tools, but a DIY job does require time and patience to get right.

    Cons: You need to have or borrow the right tools. If your deck requires any complicated grading or level of the ground or anything similar, you may want to hire a professional deck contractor or builder to ensure the deck is stable and safe for you, your family, and your guests.

    Building A Deck Over A Concrete Patio

    How to Build a Deck Over a Concrete Patio

    I’m planning on building a deck over the back patio using Ekodeck Plus from Bunnings. I’m planning on using Klevaklip Adjustable Joist Supports to keep the joists off the concrete . I’m was thinking of using 90x45mm h3 treated pine for the joists – and this is where my confusion starts to set in. Is that appropriate to use for this type of deck? And then I’m unsure of how far apart the joist supports should be placed. The joists will be spaced a maximum of 450mm apart, but the supports holding them I’m unsure of. The Klevaklip website has the span distance with recommended and maximum distances, just unsure if that would take into account the heavier composite decking.

     

    How Do I Cover An Old Concrete Patio

    An old concrete patio can be the most boring part of an exciting backyard. You don’t have to live with that plain concrete patio, though. A little creativity and a liberal helping of elbow grease, and you can breathe new life into that old patio.

    Cover an old concrete patio with a wood or composite deck to bring a warm, organic look to the backyard. Build the new deck with wood or composite decking and attach the deck directly to the concrete patio.

    There are several considerations regarding the kind of deck you build over your concrete patio, as well as a few other options for patio covering. Keep reading to pick up some tips and ideas.

    Deck Can Be Built Over Concrete Patio Using Frame Base

    Q-Our 36-year-old concrete patio consists of six slabs that have become uneven over the years from sinking, heaving and wear and tear. I`m looking for a solution that would not mean breaking up and removing the concrete. Could a wood deck be built over the patio?

    A-The usual way to build a deck over a patio is to attach wood sleepers or strips to the surface of the concrete to serve as a fastening structure for the decking. Pressure-treated wood, redwood or cedar should be used for all parts of the deck.

    When a patio consists of a single slab, as it does in many cases, the deck construction is fairly simple. The wood sleepers, usually 2-by-4s, are laid in approximate position, spaced on 24-inch centers and usually spanning the shortest dimension of the slab. A level surface must be achieved with the sleepers by shimming them with pieces of wood, substituting thinner or thicker sleeper strips, or chiseling off high spots in the concrete. Short lengths of wood can be used to make up sleeper strips, if necessary, as long as the final strip has a surface level with the other sleepers. A line level and other guide strings can be used to check the sleepers. Keep in mind that the final surface of the deck should slope away from the house slightly for proper drainage.

    A power hammer with masonry fasteners is the best tool for attaching the sleepers to the slab and can be rented at some tool-rental agencies. Always wear goggles when driving fasteners into masonry.

    Installing Composite Decking Over Concrete Steps

    The first step to building over a concrete stoop is to install a ledger board on both sides of the stoop. You will essentially box frame around the stoop by installing double joists on either side of the stoop and placing a double header beam in front of the stoop in between the double joists.

    You can fill in the area above the stoop by installing a 2×6 ledger board with 2×6 joists running out to the header. The 2×6 joists should not come in contact with the concrete stoop. You may need to rip down the joists to provide clearance for frost heaving.

    It can be a fairly simple process to install composite decking over concrete. However, it’s also important to keep considerations in mind to be sure your installation goes smoothly, yields a safe structure, and stands the test of time.

    Something Else You Want To Build A Deck Over

    If you have any other questions about what you can and can’t build a deck over—not matter how strange it might seem—contact David at DeKing Decks. He’s experienced with these kinds of jobs and can talk to you about your options and what is possible.

    Deking Deck Service Areas:

    DeKing Decks service Brisbane, Redlands, Bayside, Logan, Ipswich, Moreton Bay, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Scenic Rim

    Fiberon Decking Works With Minimal Clearance Requirements

    When used with a sleeper system, Fiberon composite decking is approved for installation with 1 ½” of clearance from the bottom of the deck board to the pad/concrete surface – meaning you can now install Fiberon deck boards almost anywhere.

    Here are some more tips to ensure a successful sleeper system installation:

    Pros And Cons Of Patios

    Pros: Patio installation can be more affordable and easy, especially if you choose an inexpensive material like concrete or gravel.

    Cons: The materials used for patios are often heavy, and it can be taxing to DIY. What’s more, if you have to level or grade the ground underneath, you may need special equipment. Adding a full or partial roof can also increase the costs of building a patio, but could also improve its ROI.

    Building Over An Existing Slab

    If you are building an overhead to cover an existing patio, you must first determine if local codes allow setting it directly on the slab and, if so, is the concrete thick enough to support the weight. Otherwise, you will have to create original footings for the overhead. If you need help with this project, get free bids from local patio roof construction pros.

    In many areas, an overhead on a concrete slab is allowable if the slab is at least 3 1/2 inches thick and each post can support combined “live” and “dead” loads of up to 750 pounds .

    To secure an overhead to an already-existing slab, you must place each post in a post anchor. Standard anchors work with rough and surfaced 4-by-4, 4-by-6, and 6-by-6 posts; any other size anchor will have to be specially ordered.

    Browse Materials for This Project on Amazon

    To install a masonry anchor, use a drill with a masonry-bit attachment to make a hole large enough for a 1/2-inch expanding anchor bolt. After inserting the bolt, secure the post anchor by adding a washer and nut and tightening with a wrench. Cut the end of the post square, sit it in the base, pre-drill holes in the post, and then nail the anchor to the post.

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    Another way to fasten the post anchor is by securing a short piece of threaded rod in a hole with epoxy cement. Start by drilling a hole slightly larger than the threaded rod.

    Building On An Existing Deck

    Pin on Concrete patio

    Where local building codes allow this practice, you can bolt a patio overhead’s posts directly to existing deck beams, joists, or other heavy structural members. Or, you can lag-screw through post bases and decking into the top of a deck joist or beam.

    When bolting to the deck’s structure, be sure to use heavy-duty that are long enough to penetrate the deck’s framing by at least 2 inches.

    In some situations, you may be able to use the home’s structure to support an overhead above a deck. For a good example of this, see the article This Patio Roof Sheds Water, Allows Natural Light.

     



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