Easiest Deck That You Can Build by Yourself (No Permits, No Railing, & No Nonsense) - One Weekend

🧰 TOOLS & Materials Used For This Project🛠
Bison Level Up Deck System: https://amzn.to/4fnnusP
Cost Breakdown: https://atimprovements.com/easiest-wa...
Torpedo Level: https://amzn.to/4flBO5p
6' Level: https://amzn.to/3BV6tIm
Hidden Fasteners:https://amzn.to/4hnqaJ8
Deck Leverage Tool: https://amzn.to/4eUjYGL
AWP Tool Belt: https://amzn.to/4fixQu7
Bar Clamps: https://amzn.to/3JjFrJe

This past weekend I built this 14'x14' Ground Level "Floating Deck" using the Bison Level Up Adjustable Deck Pedestal System and I am pretty dang happy with how it turned out. Here is how to Build a floating Deck (tools and materials linked at the end): :

1. Site Preparation
First, mark the layout for you deck usign some stakes and a string line. After marking the layout, I recommend that you excavate down 1 or 2 inches and apply a gravel based to facilitate compaction. However, you can also build your ground level deck on compacted soil, an existing patio or slab, etc. I rented both mini skidsteer and a plate compactor for this proeject to save myself some manual labor. After excavating, compact the soil with the plate compactor, place 2" of #57 stone, and then compact the stone.

2. Placing the Adjustable Deck Pedestals
After compacting the stone and giving yourself a firm foundaiton to build off of, assemble the Bison Level Up Adjustable Deck Pedestals by following the manufacturer's recommendations. Place them 16" O.C. on both ends of the deck and make sure that they are perfectly level by adjusting the slope leveler. After confirming that each pedestal is level usign a torpedo level, use a 6' level to adjust all of the pedestals to the same height. To do this, you simply need to rotate the adjustable pedestal support. Once all of the deck pedestals are in place, you can begin the joist installation.

3. Installing the Deck Joists
Using pressure treated lumber (typically 2"x6", 2"x8", 2"x10", or 2"x12"), cut you joists to length and "Crown" each of the boards to make sure the crown is up. Next, place the joists on the deck pedestals, making sure they are centered on the pedestal on both sides. Then, simply attach the joists to the pedestals using the folding straps and screws. For the outer-most joists, you will need to use framing angle hardware since the joists on the end will not be directly supported by a deck pedestal.

4. Installing the Rim Joists and Skirting Board (if needed)
Once all the joists are in place, attach the Rim Joist to end of the Joists by using a bar clamp to hold it in place. Use three screws to secure the rim joist to each deck joist. If the back side of your Rim joist is obstructed (like mine was by my house), you will need to attach it using framing angles. Lastly, if you have a gap below your joists / rim joist, it is recommended that you include a bit of "skirting" reinforcement as shown in the video.

5. Installing the Decking Boards
With the deck fully framed, you can install the decking boards. For my deck, I used composite decking with hidden fasteners that go in between each board - but you can use any type of decking you want!

6. Fascia Board and Final Touches
For my deck Fascia, I used a peice of composite decking around the top of the perimeter. I mitered the corners and butt joints for a cleaner look. For the bottom, I used PVC fascia trim that painted black.

Overall, I think the deck turned out great and it was super nice to not have to dig out concrete footers.

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🎥 MY YOUTUBE GEAR
Camera (Iphone Max): https://amzn.to/3d5HxSo
Microphone (Maono Condenser Mic): https://amzn.to/3RCAb7N
Tripod: https://amzn.to/3Rz5Gj3
Mini Tripod: https://amzn.to/3Rvt2WM
Lighting: https://amzn.to/3d4QdZ5

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🛠🧰 TOOLS THAT I USE
Carbide Tipped Drill Bit: https://amzn.to/3S0hdIM
Tapcon Screws: https://amzn.to/3OxEWxh
Drill: https://amzn.to/3JICKkk
Tape Measure: https://amzn.to/3HaTWgE
Circular Saw: https://amzn.to/3BFotC4
Masonry Drill: https://amzn.to/36yP1JW
Level: https://amzn.to/3HowUDn
Hammer: https://amzn.to/35fIpiT
Chalk Line: https://amzn.to/3MwSDg8
Clamps: https://amzn.to/3HLqwpK
Drill: https://amzn.to/3JICKkk
Sawzall: https://amzn.to/3HcdeSI
Circular Saw: https://amzn.to/3BFotC4
Jig saw: https://amzn.to/3I6lcyd

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Thank you so much for watching!

*All content on the Andrew Thron Improvements YouTube channel reflects my own opinions. Please seek out guidance of professionally trained and licensed individuals before making any decisions. Links in the description may be affiliate links.

#BisonLevelUp #diydeck #adjustabledecksupport #outdoordecking #floatingdeck