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Small Cabin Forum / General Forum / Modular deck idea
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WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 9 Sep 2020 11:55
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Since we will be using our camper until we build our small camper, i was thinking about having a deck off our camper.

On past properties we've had with campers on them, i constructed the deck as normal on concrete pillars and treated post because of uneven land and getting the deck height in alignment with the camper.

So, thinking about this again, but i was thinking something modular and less permanent so that if we move the camper or when we build the cabin i can repurpose the deck. I'm thining 3'x3' sections or maybe 4'x4' to cover a rectangular area of 8 or 9' deep by 15 or 16' wide. If it were flat land i could just design around those slotted concrete deck post you can get at the big box stores. But since i would need to elevate the deck and accomodate some slope in the land, i'm not sure what i could do.

Any ideas how i could easily level all the modular tiles off of concrete blocks without using a ton of materials or hardware?

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 9 Sep 2020 11:57
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Basically, what would be a cheap way of building these black pillar pieces: https://www.homeinfatuation.com/p/structural-deck-tiles

Nobadays
Member
# Posted: 9 Sep 2020 12:52
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Have you thought about building it as normal, screwing down the decking then when you are ready to move it, unscrew the decking and 4 guys could carry it to where you need it. Another thought oif you think that would be too heavy would be to put a double joist in the center screwed together so you could separate it into two 8x8 sections. Those pre made tiles would add up... as it looks like you have to buy the supports as well, and how do you use them on a slope...

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 9 Sep 2020 13:19
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I wouldn't buy their tiles, just the black support parts.

I actually found them on HD's website and they're not as $$ as i thought: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Eurotec-Deck-Support-Plastic-Adjustable-Pedestal-ECO-XL-1 5-Pieces-Box-INC946025/303653366#customer_reviews

I could basically level a 12x12 or even smaller concrete pad from the landscaping dept. and then set those Eurotec pillars on those and then build my own modular sections to sit on top of those.

Houska
Member
# Posted: 9 Sep 2020 20:14
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When we put up our yurt, following guidance from the maker we created a modular, octagonal deck that rests on the ground on scaffold leveling jacks, like https://www.homedepot.ca/product/metaltech-24-inch-levelling-jack-8-pack-/1000830498

In our case, the maker sold us custom brackets that fit over top of the jacks that had a 135 degree angle welded to an appropriate diameter 7 1/4" section of steel pipe. For temporary, not building-inspected, use with right angles (not octagons), you could doubtless fasten your deck beams to a pipe a simpler way, heck even put on a horizonal wood plate with a correctly sized hole.

Another idea for temporary use - a (used) dock with adjustable legs?

Brettny
Member
# Posted: 10 Sep 2020 05:34
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Are you in a frost area? Do you have codes? Little 3'sections of deck are going to move in the frost. Also spending extra money and making a whole lot of extra work just to save a few hundred bucks on a deck thats prob not going to meet code wouldnt be a top choice to me.

Do what Nobody says. Build it like normal. Then when you want to move just remove the deck boards. At t least this way your support boards arnt cut into 3' pieces and you will have alot less small pieces to level.

Roy789
Member
# Posted: 10 Sep 2020 06:16
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oh, that's a nice idea

toyota_mdt_tech
Member
# Posted: 5 Feb 2021 07:52
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I'm with Brett, build it normally, use screws to hold it together (build it so no load carrying is on the screws) and when done, unscrew it all and reuse full length lumber.

gcrank1
Member
# Posted: 5 Feb 2021 10:40
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We found that less than an 8' out deck crowds us, so 4x8 sections, pre-built, bolted side by side together would work for us. And 4x8 was about the limit of move manageable by a couple of fit guys; my 12x12 was not.
Note that we have done the following at diff times.
These could all sit on a pair of leveled up 'beams' that sit on patio blocks, or whatever stacked as needed. If the height is too much for that make a simple 'box frame' for beneath with 4x4 posts (like building a small shed floor deck) that the bolted together deck sections can sit atop and be 'strapped' to. The 4x4s can be set on blocks on grade. I like to use Spax fasteners for hd stuff that may be disassembled.
Imo, its a deck, and a temp one, no need to worry about frost heave, way easy to re-level/shim IF it ever needs it.

deckit
Member
# Posted: 30 Mar 2024 12:07
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One option to easily level modular deck sections off of concrete blocks without using a lot of materials or hardware is to utilize adjustable deck support systems. These systems are designed to accommodate uneven terrain and allow for easy leveling of deck sections.

Here's how you can approach it:

Choose Modular Deck Sections: Select modular deck sections that are designed to work with adjustable deck support systems. These sections often come in standard sizes like 3'x3' or 4'x4' and are compatible with various support systems.

Prepare the Ground: Clear and level the area where you plan to install the deck. Remove any debris or vegetation and ensure the ground is compacted and stable.

Install Concrete Blocks: Place concrete blocks at strategic intervals across the area where the deck will be installed. These blocks will serve as the base for the adjustable deck supports.

Install Adjustable Deck Supports: Position the adjustable deck supports on top of the concrete blocks, spacing them evenly to support the modular deck sections. Adjust the height of the supports as needed to ensure they are level and at the desired height.

Place Modular Deck Sections: Once the adjustable supports are in place, simply place the modular deck sections on top of them. Ensure the sections are properly aligned and securely positioned.

Level the Deck: Use a level to check the alignment and ensure that the deck sections are level. Adjust the height of the supports as necessary to achieve a level surface.

Secure the Deck Sections: Depending on the design of the modular deck sections, you may need to secure them together using connectors or fasteners to create a stable and cohesive deck surface.

By using adjustable deck support systems in conjunction with modular deck sections, you can easily create a level and stable deck surface on uneven terrain without the need for extensive materials or hardware.

gcrank1
Member
# Posted: 30 Mar 2024 12:26 - Edited by: gcrank1
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Im surprised there isn't a link in that....
A couple years ago, after this thread started, we did build our side deck in 2 sections. It was known from the start that it needed to be movable. Due to the recycled framing we used each turned out at 9'x12' which we butted end to end (no fasteners) and set on patio blocks. Decking is press. treated 6"x 5/4.
A few weeks ago it was time to move them aside....no surprise, I can't even pick up a corner. Maybe once, not now. Ive lost my super powers . Each board sure adds up!
Bring on the JD1025r with the pallet fork attachment, some strapping and a come-a-long. In from the side, lift ok, on that side. No way to pick up the whole thing like that. But the strapping, a big J hook and come-a-along reaching to the other side and I was able barely pull it up and back into the forks a ways. My rig barely, and slowly, was able to relocate both sections to the side away from the current project. Glad I didn't build 'em bigger! 4 sections of 9x6 would have been easier.......

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