How to build a low-level deck with 100mm clearance?

[jinugu]

Hello experts

I am undertaking a decking project, a DIY. Low level deck with a ground clearance of 100mm or so. Attached is the proposed design. 

Posts would be 400 mm length with 300mm underground.

Any suggestions or advice pls.

The bearers will be placed flat on the posts and the decking board on top.

Best regards

RaviDraft design

[jinugu]

That was quick Jacob. Thanks

Are you able to share the plans/instruction manual for this product. I couldn't find any.

Regards

Ravi

[JacobZ]

Hi Ravi (@jinugu),

The instruction manual can be viewed here - Mimosa Portsea 3x4m Instruction Manual.

I have emailed you the plans, which would need to be submitted to the council if their rules require it.

Jacob

[jinugu]

Thanks Jacob

Received with thanks.

I had another question but I will leave it for another day 

Have a good weekend.

Best regards 

Ravi

[jinugu]

Hi Team

In continuation,  I checked with the council and they connffirm that a consent is not required if the floor area is below 10 sqm. So, I am now looking at 3 x 3 mtr instead. On your comment below, quick set concrete alone is ok or does it require reinforced steel as well? I had a look at the designs you had forwarded, it doesn't have any reference to the use of reinforced steel.

Quote

In the engineering plans for that particular gazebo, it's noted that a cylindrical concrete pier underneath each post, 450mm in diameter and 600mm deep, is suitable for this gazebo.

Unquote

Best regards 

Ravi

For the 

Best regards

Ravi

[EricL]

Hello @jinugu 

If the instructions have no mention of steel reinforcement, then it's ok not to put any in. But in saying that, if you wish to give your footing extra reinforcement then I would recommend putting in some Reo bars for support. In regards to the type of concrete, if you are not in a great hurry, I suggest using regular heavy-duty concrete as it provides an extra bit of strength. It will cure a bit longer, but you'll get a stronger footing.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[jinugu]

Hi Jacob

Its been a while hope you are doing well.

What options have i got in case i am not able to notch the bearer on the post? I have seen elsewhere ( on the internet, professionals doing thatbearer and post) the bearers sitting on the posts direct. I understand its not recommended. But, if that was the only option i have got, would using angle bracket in conjuction with the use of T bracket work? as per the attached image. Ravi

[EricL]

Hello @jinugu 

Yes, it is possible to use a nailing plate or large T plates to anchor the bearer to the post. Adding an angle bracket might add extra support. However, I still suggest doing a single lap joint on the post to hold the bearer in place as you can use a nut and bolt fixing which is much more reliable. 

Let me tag @JacobZ just in case he wants to add more information.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[jinugu]

Hello Jacob

Hope you are well.

I have managed to land myself in trouble.

For a external decking project (the posts in the chain), i have in error bought structural timber which i cannot return due to .log

Istics. Am I able to paint it to increase the life span? Which paint should I be using? I understand its not ideal to use untreated timber for external projects but I have no choice. Lifespan of 2 years is ok with me.

Best regards

Ravi

[JacobZ]

Hi Ravi (@jinugu),

Ultimately, returning and replacing the untreated timber with a suitable material would be much better, but if you have no other option, then 3 coats of Gripset Betta 4L Bitumen Rubber Waterproofing Membrane would give you the best chance of protecting the timber.

In saying this, I couldn't guarantee that the timber would last 2 years, even if it is coated in the membrane. If any moisture gets inside the timber, which it likely will because you need to use screws to attach decking boards, which will penetrate the membrane, then you might not even get 1 year out of it.

Considering the expense of building this deck, I would weigh the cost of returning the timber. If you contact your local store's Trade Desk, it might be possible for our delivery partners to deliver suitable replacement material and pick up the timber to be returned. You would need to pay additional shipping costs, but this is not necessarily impossible.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[jinugu]

Thanks Jacob. Much appreciated. 

It should be fine to use it to use it on a concrete decking in a patio where there will be no water at all?

Best regards

Ravi