I have built quite a few decks now and whilst I really enjoy designing and constructing them, as they are all different and take all their own challenges, the physical amount of work required can really take it out of you, especially in the heat of summer.

Saying that I still don’t shy away from them as it is very satisfying to enjoy a cold beer on the finished deck with the owner when it’s all done.

I use different systems depending on the situation. Low decks over dirty/lawn I use ‘Tough Blocks’, they need to be levelled if the ground isn’t already but there is only minimal digging for a few anchor piles around the edge. For low decks over an existing concrete patio I tend to use an adjustable joist support by KlevaKlip. These are bolted to the concrete and as the concrete falls away from the house, the height can be adjusted so the deck is bang on level, so easy!! Anything higher it’s the traditional post and bearer deck. 

Laying the decking is where all your hard work on the subfloor (getting it level and square etc.) really pays off, as the boards go down one after another. Decks are a great job for being able to look back after a hard day and see exactly what you’ve achieved.