How to build low-level outdoor deck and gazebo?

[mmikhael87]

 

 

 

 

 hi there I am wanting to put a low level floating deck in the area provided with pictures  can you please refer some information on this would the area need to be excavated a bit as I want this deck to put low as possible with a little step up with securing posts in the ground to support the gazebo that will go on top it,  my measurements for my deck would be 4600 length and 3300 in depth also once deck is completed I’m wanting to put this gazebo on top of the deck so this would need to secured to the deck 

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @mmikhael87. It's great to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about pergolas.

With the deck being low to the ground, it’s important to know that there’s a bare minimum clearance needed between the ground and the underside of the deck joists to prevent moisture problems. Even if you're aiming for the deck to be as low as possible, you’ll still need to excavate the area underneath to allow space for airflow, drainage, and at least a shallow layer of gravel. Without this, the joists will sit in damp conditions and will likely rot prematurely, especially if you're not using fully treated hardwood or H4-rated timber.

Some people do build ultra-low-level decks directly on the ground or using deck blocks, but these are generally short-lived due to the constant exposure to moisture. If you're going to the effort of building a deck to support a gazebo, it's worth doing it properly to get a longer lifespan out of the structure.

In your case, because you’re also planning to put a gazebo on top of the deck, it might actually be more secure to install concrete footers or piers directly into the ground for the gazebo posts. You can then build the deck around the posts. That way, the structure of the gazebo is independent and doesn’t rely on the deck framing to hold it upright, which is especially useful if you’re in a windy or exposed area.

Just a heads-up too—installing a gazebo, especially one that’s fixed to the ground or a deck, may require council approval. If you’re planning to fix it to the deck rather than directly to footings, you may also need an engineer to certify the attachment method to ensure it complies with local regulations and is safe.

Once you’ve marked out the area and know your exact levels, it’ll be easier to work out how much excavation is needed and what type of footings will work best.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[mmikhael87]

Ok Thankyou for that Information, so moving to another option if I was just to do concrete footings around the gazebo legs how do I get all 4 pads to be level with eachother? So the gazebo isn’t on a lean or not level when the gazebo gets placed on the pads?

so if i was to build the deck around the gazebo once in place could I go another decking option, like the connecting links that sit on plastic joiners etc? That way it will be low level and wouldn’t need much room underneath or excavations 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @mmikhael87,

To level the pads, you can either use a string line and string level or a laser level. 

Sorry, but I'm not entirely sure what you're referencing with "connecting links that sit on plastic joiners etc". Are you referring to decking tiles? If so, I am unfamiliar with them as they are not a product we carry.

Mitchell

[mmikhael87]

Sorry what I meant to say is does bunnings do an aluminum system frame? That way I won’t have to worry about moisture and Rot exposure and can put near the ground etc?

also with decking what options are best? There is a company called click deck I know you guys don’t do that stuff but I’m interested in options that you have to offer that would be affordable but strong and durable around my gazebo 

  

[MitchellMc]

Hi @mmikhael87,

Thanks for sharing the screenshot. You've just made me aware that we are now carrying the Dekart range of click-together decking tiles. These would likely be more suitable for your area, though they don't recommend directly laying them on soil or aggregate.
 

We don't have an aluminium framing system. Ekodeck would likely be one of the better options for a low-level deck. However, they still need 40mm clearance if the area has good drainage. Otherwise, 90mm is required.

What would be the maximum overall height for the deck that you'd consider?

Mitchell

[mmikhael87]

I’m not 100% sure height but just a minimal step would be good that way there no struggle getting on and off?

[MitchellMc]

I've put a rendering together for you below to help illustrate the layout @mmikhael87. In order to achieve a minimal step up of 140mm, you'll need to excavate the area and lower the soil so it's not so close to the joists.

Mitchell

 

[mmikhael87]

Thankyou for that render that looks good I’m after length of 4600 and width of 3300 would you be able and to do a render for me?

[MitchellMc]

Hi @mmikhael87,

That rendering is to scale, and the deck is 4600 x 3300mm. The number of joists and the footers are accurate for those dimensions.

Mitchell