How to build low-level deck frame?

Trentc

wanting assistance on a deck frame ive got about 200mm to work with before i have to start excavating,

deck is 3.3m x 8m

wanting frame to be low so there is airflow so bearers and joists are not sitting near ground

can the bearers be something like 90x45 x2 screwed back to back together then bolted/screw to some sort of steel stirup in a concrete footing ( steel footing brackets look to be way slimer then timber footings)

then joists would be say 90x45 every 450mm apart

can i use even 70x45 for joists and h4 square posts for bearers

OR

would it be alright to do single layer frame just using 140x45 timber

Dave-1

Afternoon @Trentc 

Welcome to the Community of Bunnings 🙂 Nice to se eyou in here and there are loads of decking questions plus projects you could have a look at to help with ideas.

Definently doable is the first part. Possibly without excavation tho it is close. There have been decks built with less space then yours. 🙂

I would sit down with a sketch book and draw up the overall area you want the deck to be,

Then figure which way you want the boards to run, aligned with the door or aligned with the wall on the side.

I like your second idea of  a set of a "single layer frame, with closer joists being supported with half stirrups in concrete (You can go timber post as well)

As you draw all this up it will solidify what you want and also show what is needed. 

This is a good link to understanding what is needed How to understand deck span tables 

Factor in drainage for the area if needed, under deck lighting, power for elsewhere near the deck for power points/GPO's might be an idea to consider before the deck goes in.

A coffee, a sketch pad, pencil in a cafe and you have the perfect excuse to while away the morning 🙂

Dave