You’ve decided you want a deck. Awesome. But you want it away from the house. Possible? Of course! What you’re talking about is known as a floating or a detached deck. It’s not anchored to the house in any way. A floating deck is a great way to make the best use of your outdoor space.
I’ve been discussing a lot of DIY projects lately. All of them have a degree of difficulty involved. Take deck stairs, for example; they’re not easy to tackle solo. Well, a floating deck is no cakewalk, but here’s some good news: it’s more doable than a deck attached to the house.
A floating deck is great because it gives you flexibility in location and design, requires fewer permits (depending on where you live), and is great for sloped yards.
What to Consider Before You Start Building Your Floating Deck
Permits and HOA Codes
Before beginning your floating deck project, there are some things you should think through. Check all building codes before doing anything.
RELATED: Town of Babylon Deck Requirements
In some places, floating decks that stand less than 30 inches tall don’t need permits, but some local governments enforce tougher building rules. And what about your homeowners association (HOA)? HOAs often implement regulations concerning the materials and colors used for decks and their location.
The worst thing that can happen is to build the floating deck you’ve been planning for years, only to have someone calling foul, fining you, and having to redo it.
Deck Placement
There’s a reason you’re reading this post. You need a deck that’s not attached to your home, so searching up how detached decks work is your next option. Thankfully, the best part of any floating deck is that it can go where you need to go.
They’re great for sloped yards. You can adjust the deck’s foundation to create a level surface on a slope. It’s good to think about where the sun hits your yard and to set it up in as private a place as possible. If you’re looking to lounge and tan, you’ll want more sun. But if you’re trying to beat the heat on a hot day, you’ll appreciate some shade.
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Floating Deck Measurements
Floating decks often measure 10×10 or 12×12 feet, but you should select your size according to your intended use, such as lounging, dining, or entertaining. You may not have the space to put an entire outdoor kitchen on it, but you can make it a great hang-out spot with the right furniture.
The selected area must remain level while ensuring water does not pool around it when it rains. Use stakes and string to mark the outline of your deck to visualize it.
Tools and Materials Checklist
You’ve got to gather the right tools before you can start building your floating deck. The construction process is possible for DIYers — and here’s what you’ll need:
| Tool / Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Power Drill | Driving deck screws and drilling pilot holes |
| Circular Saw / Miter Saw | Cutting lumber accurately and efficiently |
| Measuring Tape | Measuring lumber and spacing for precise construction |
| Speed Square | Marking right angles and ensuring square cuts |
| Carpenter’s Pencil | Marking boards for cutting and drilling |
| Spirit Level | Ensuring the deck frame and boards are even and level |
| Shovel | Clearing the ground and leveling the build site |
| String Line & Stakes | Outlining deck perimeter and guiding alignment |
| Pressure-Treated Lumber | Frame and deck surface—resistant to rot and weather |
| Concrete Deck Blocks | Supporting the deck without a permanent foundation |
| Galvanized Screws | Securing boards and preventing rust over time |
| Landscape Fabric | Preventing weed growth under the deck |
| Gravel | Assisting with drainage and stability beneath the deck |
| Wood Sealant / Stain | Protecting wood from moisture, sun, and seasonal wear |
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Floating Deck
You’ve got your tools, you’ve got your plans, and now it’s time to break ground.
Step 1: Prep the Ground Surface
You’ll need to find a flat and stable spot in your yard for your deck project. You’ll have to get rid of the grass and rocks from the area before installing the deck. Add landscaping fabric to help stop weeds from growing under your deck (but nothing can fully prevent weeds; according to This Old House, some weeds can lay 30,000 seeds in a single season and remain in the soil for decades).
A one to two-inch layer of gravel must be laid down to promote drainage and keep the deck wood elevated while remaining dry. A tamper or hand roller will help you compact the gravel and make it level. The foundation will create a stable and clean base for your deck blocks.
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Step 2: Place the Deck Blocks
Outline your deck’s perimeter with stakes and string lines. Position the concrete deck blocks throughout this layout with a gap of four to six feet between each one in all directions. Each concrete deck block must be level — by itself and level with the surrounding blocks. Ensure all deck blocks have a level position by modifying the gravel base beneath any block that does not reach the proper height. A long straight board paired with a spirit level will help you verify proper alignment between all deck blocks.
Step 3: Build the Outer Frame
Measure and build the outer frame using pressure-treated lumber to match your specified dimensions. Attach all corners of the frame with galvanized screws and check that each angle remains square using a speed square. Position the completed frame on the deck blocks, ensuring everything is level and flush. Double-check it as well.
Step 4: Add Interior Joists
Position the joists inside the frame at 16-inch intervals from center to center. The deck boards receive structural support from these elements. Either utilize joist hangers or screw the joists directly to the frame’s outer edges. Ensure that all joists are both level and parallel before attaching deck boards for a uniform installation.
Step 5: Square and Secure the Frame
Check diagonal measurements between corners before permanently fastening anything to make sure everything is aligned and squared off. When the diagonal measurements match, your frame will be square. Continue adjusting the frame until the diagonal measurements match each other. Then, reinforce it with extra screws or brackets to secure all components.
Step 6: Install the Deck Boards
Start laying deck boards from one end of the frame. Place spacers between each deck board to create a uniform 1/8-inch space for proper drainage. Secure each deck board to its underlying joist with two deck screws for every joist. Deck boards should be installed either in a straight line or diagonally to create visual appeal.
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Step 7: Trim and Finish
Use a circular saw to trim overhanging deck boards after they are secured to achieve clean edges. Smooth down any rough or broken sections you find. Use a protective water-resistant stain or wood sealant to shield your deck from environmental damage. The protection step plays a vital role in preserving wood durability while keeping its look intact.
Step 8: Add Features You Want
To improve safety and usability, you can add stairs, railings, or built-in seating. When attaching new features to your deck, they must comply with local safety standards and be properly secured to the deck structure.
Quick Summary
Floating decks provide flexible outdoor spaces. Their design works well for sloped yards. Before starting any work make sure to verify local building codes and homeowners association rules. Successful floating deck construction depends on thoughtful planning, selecting the right spot and knowing the materials you need. The process of creating a beautiful functional space evolves from laying deck blocks through board installation and adding finishing touches. If you’re not looking to take on a deck project yourself, feel free to reach out to our team.
