how to build a deck sitting on concrete
I have a concrete patio that sits approx 6 inches below the doorstep. This creates both a falling hazard and a tripping hazard.
I want to build a wooden deck that will bring the surface level up to the threshold eliminating the hazards.
Can a wooden deck be placed directly on the concrete patio? it will not be attached to the house.
What would the construction consist? Just as if I’m building a wall only it doesn’t get stood up, but stood on.
Replies
Can be done...
First, place 2x4 treated plates flat on the concrete patio and anchor them to the patio using red head anchors or tapcon screws. These plates should run parallel to the house and about 3' apart or so. These must also be shimmed so the top surface of all the plates are level to one another.
Next, use treated 2x4's to form floor joists and rim joists like you are framig a floor. I would frame the joists 12" on center. The joists would run pertendicular to the house and over the top of the plates noted above. Toe nail and clip the joists to the plates.
I would then nail or screw 1x4 cedar decking over the top of the joists....running perpendicular to the joists and parallel to the wall of the house.
The total construction thickness would be 5 3/4" (1 1/2" for the plates, 3 1/2" 2x4 joists, 3/4" cedar decking) - 1/4" below the threshold.