BECOME A PRO
Decks and Porches

Raised vs. Ground Level: Where to Build Your Deck?


Are you thinking of building a deck anytime soon? Well, if the answer is yes, then you have two main options. You can decide to choose elevated decks or go for a ground-level option. There is nothing wrong with either of these two options. 

Each of them offers benefits that every homeowner should enjoy. So, to help you make an informed choice, we are going to look through some of the pros and cons associated with these two deck options.

Raised Decks Pros and Cons 

A raised deck sits on a foundation. It is lifted a few feet higher on the ground either on a flat surface or a slope. As noted above, raised decks have pros and cons, and here is a breakdown of each.

Benefits of Raised Decks 

  • Better Views 

A raised deck installation can help you get better views of the world outside from the comfort of your deck. Now, this does not mean that a ground-level deck will not offer any views. 

But in case you live in areas with plenty of vegetation, a raised deck will easily allow you to see across the landscape and enjoy the greenery.

  • Built-In Difficult Terrain 

Not all homes are built on flat surfaces. In some cases, you may need to build your deck on a sloped area. This will pose several engineering risks. 

But when a deck raised over the slop is built, it will be much easier to maintain stability and safety of the entire structure. Decks built on slopes are heavily supported by raised foundations to ensure they are practical.

  • Excellent for Your Landscape 

A raised deck will often look so majestic. Think of it as a podium set in the middle of your property. It will surely have a huge effect on the beauty and landscape of the entire area. In the end, the deck will deliver superb curb appeal.

The Disadvantages of Raised Decks 

  • Expensive 

To build a raised deck, you will need to dig out the foundation a few inches into the ground. This will add to the labor cost needed to build such a deck. 

Also, the fact that you are building a raised foundation means that you will be spending so much wood and other supplies. This will cost you a lot of money.

  • Time Consuming

Building a raised deck is not going to take a few days. building the deck foundation alone will probably take a week or so. You may therefore have a very hard time getting the project done in time.

Ground Level Decks Pros and Cons 

So, when deciding between a ground-level or raised deck, you will also learn that ground-level decks have pros and cons too. 

Benefits of Ground Level Decks 

  • Faster to Build 

Ground-level decks are typically very simple. You can build them fast without any added expertise or help. A normal-sized ground-level deck can be completed easily within a week or so.

  • Cheaper 

Since you are not going to be digging deep foundations and using more materials to create the deck platform, you will end up paying less for your ground-level deck. 

Besides, ground-level decks do not require any special permits to build so the savings will still be high.

  • Safer

A grounded deck will often feel much safer compared to a raised one. This is not to say that raised decks are not safe. But the risks associated with raised decks are higher compared to a grounded design.

Cons of Grounded Decks 

Ground decks can also have some shortcomings worth noting. First, they may have an obstructed view of the area around them. 

Also, if you live in areas with lots of pests, you may have a hard time controlling them with a ground-level deck. In such situations, building a raised deck is much better. 

Contact a local deck building company and solve all your doubts about costs, options, the timeframe of completion, and more! 

Comments

Sign in with

or Pick a name

Be the first comment.

© 2024 eHARDHAT - All Rights Reserved.