Good Times modular custom or standard frame?

[snipwhip]

Hi,  I'm intending a build a deck around 5.4m * 2.0m (+/- 10cm) using Good times custom frame (945 * 945) instead of the 1113*1113 standard frame for Ekodeck. Has anyone used this custom frame for your decking which Good Times will cut to size for you and if so, what was your experience with the quality?

I can't find many reviews on the custom frames but the standard frames seem ok enough. Ultimately thinking of whether to get custom frames or buy the standard frames and cut down to size myself. I intend to use long 5.4m ekodeck boards and not the panels. Thanks in advance.

[JacobZ]

Hi @snipwhip,

Allow me to tag @martyjames, who used the Good Times frames to build his deck, which was discussed in How to build a small deck using modular decking kit and adjustable supports, as well as @Zog, whose discussion about What joist size to use for low-level deck shows the Good Times frames in use. They might be able to add some insight about their experiences using these products.

I can't say I've used the custom frames myself, but I can't imagine there will be much difference between them and the standard frames outside of their dimensions. If you were willing to cut the standard frames yourself, it might be worth considering just making your own deck using the same base materials as these frames. Our helpful members and the Workshop team would be more than happy to guide you, and there is a wealth of information out there that you can use as a reference.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

[snipwhip]

Thanks @JacobZ.  I would ideally prefer to have the decking fit right to the end of the frame without having to rip the last board to fit as the idea of not getting it straight scares me. So trying to work out best way to get frame size that allows that. 

[MitchellMc]

If you are confident with the rest of the build, then you could always have a handyperson come in and make the final ripping cut of the board for you @snipwhip. I can't imagine that would be all that expensive to have done. Alternatively, you can cut your decking boards in half and have a full-width breaker board in the middle. That way you'd just need to trim the ends of the boards, rather than make a rip cut in one.

Mitchell

[snipwhip]

Thanks @MitchellMc. I might get the modular frames and then cut the frames back to fit the decks. Kinda defeats the purpose of a modular frames but at least part of the job is done. Also, as the deck will be on a slight slope, i estimate the edge will be just under 30cm off the ground. I havent factored in a step - would one be needed at this height?  

[EricL]

Hello @snipwhip 

It would probably help if there was a step especially for older members of the family. I propose adding a step that is 150mm or half the height of your proposed deck. I also suggest checking your local council rules and regulations in regards to adding a step to a deck.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[snipwhip]

** I've since found a post by @MitchellMc on another thread saying this is ok. Thank you. **

Thanks @EricL . Is it possible to mix the good time frames? I figured if the small section on concrete was a 70x45 modular frame while the rest on soil were 90x45, I could get the deck to sit a bit lower. I'll just have to align the tops of the frames. Any concerns in terms of the load capacity and how the frames should be joined or supported?  Thanks

[MitchellMc]

I can't see any issues with that @snipwhip. It would still have a sufficient load capacity and could be screwed to the 90mm frame. However, you must also consider the airflow under the frame. If there is not a sufficient gap, you can run into the early onset of decay due to the moist environment. It's not a great idea to have the frame right on the concrete.

Mitchell

[snipwhip]

Thanks @MitchellMc . I will raise the 70*45 frame off the ground by 15 - 25mm on either brackets or shims or the lowest feet i can find such as the Builders Edge 25-40mm Minifoot Pedestal Feet. For shims, do you just rest the joist on them? or do you need to secure it somewhat to prevent the it from "slipping" out? the deck will be free standing but imagine its heavy enough to lock the shims in place? Cheers

[MitchellMc]

Provided it's not in a cyclonic area, the weight of the deck typically holds it in place, and there is no need to secure it down, @snipwhip. If you have any concerns, you can always fix some brackets into the concrete and attach them with screws to your timber frame.

Mitchell