Having an inviting outdoor living space is a wonderful way to relax and entertain. But building a deck can be expensive, leaving homeowners to just dream instead of do. Floating decks present an affordable option to upgrade your yard without blowing the budget. Constructing one mainly with basic and inexpensive woods allows you to keep costs low. With smart planning and decor choices, you can fashion your ideal oasis with character and style while going easy on your wallet.
Floating decks get their name since they stand independently and aren’t physically attached to your home. This self-supporting quality simplifies building. It also makes them adaptable to uneven landscapes. Materials commonly used like wood pallets and salvaged lumber further reduce expenses. Let’s explore how to blend practicality with personal flair on a tight budget!
Materials
Choosing budget-friendly decking materials is key for controlling project costs. Here are some prime candidates for affordable floating deck construction.
Untreated Wood
Untreated wood varieties like pine and cedar make suitable low-cost deck board options. Their softness does mean less durability from weather and wear over time. But the cost savings are substantial. Visually, untreated woods blend well into natural surroundings. And you can extend their lifespan by sealing or staining them annually.
Pressure-Treated Lumber
For structural aspects like posts, beams and joists, pressure-treated lumber handles weather better. The chemical preservatives also resist rot and insects. Though pricier than untreated, it remains budget-friendly. Use it strategically for crucial framework and hidden areas. Then mix with cheaper untreated wood for surface decking.
Wooden Pallets
Wood pallets provide extreme affordability and character. Dismantled shipping pallets get new life as decking and a base frame. A coat of stain or bright color paint pops visually. Make sure to reinforce for stability. But as a primarily repurposed material, you can’t beat the price.
Other Salvaged Materials
Demolition or construction site discards present other savings opportunities. Old fencing or barn wood offer weathered patinas. Upcycled concrete pieces, bricks and stones have distinctive textures. Get creative with sourcing unique secondhand finds!
Design Elements
Now for the fun part – tailoring your floating deck design to match your vision! Keeping the layout simple at first allows room to add later.
Shape and Size
A basic square or rectangular shape works well for starter decks. This fits most backyard plots while being easier to build as a novice. For sizes, constrain initial plans to available space and budgets. But use posts and footings that support future expansions when funds allow.
Height
Deck height depends on preferences and terrain. Ground level is more affordable if the location drains well. Elevated decks provide extra height for uneven yards or privacy. Stairs then connect the decking to the ground. If doing second story, factor in more robust posts/beams and guardrails up to code.
Stairs
Speaking of stairs, these help visitors transition up to your floating deck with ease. Hardwood stair treads match deck materials visually when possible. Support stringers often utilize treated lumber for endurance. Verify step total, widths and railing specifics adhere to local codes.
Structural Considerations
Though floating decks don’t directly anchor to homes, structure remains vital. Ensuring proper support and stability prevents sagging or safety issues down the road.
Site Preparation
Prepare the site by leveling the install zone. For ground decks, excavate a bit and add gravel fill for drainage. Elevated versions need concrete piers or anchors drilled into the earth or existing patio. Check for any pipes or electrical lines if digging!
Framing and Supports
Deck framing forms the inner skeleton, like a house. Vertical posts provide main reinforcements. Support beams run perpendicular across posts topped by joists in parallel. Use bolts and deck brackets to secure into a sturdy grid.
Decking Boards
The decking surface is what you walk on. Allow small gaps between each board for water drainage and contraction in climate shifts. Fasten these boards to joists below for stability. This top layer defines thedeck’s final functional and visual essence.
Safety Reinforcements
For elevated set-ups, integrate railings, lights and exits meeting codes. On upper floors, the right balustrade height and spindle spacing ensure safety. Proper lighting illuminates walking paths and stairs after dark. Allow for at least two exit points in case of emergency.
Customizing on a Budget
Personalize your floating deck without overspending using clever improvements:
Paint and Stain
Applying budget-friendly Behr deck stain or exterior paint costs under $30 per gallon. Pick a rich hue that complements your property’s color scheme. This also protects weathered woods from further sun, rain and snow exposure.
Lighting
Outdoor string lights instantly warm up a space for evening relaxation. Go modern with solar powered LEDs or vintage with Edison bulbs. Use hooks, clips and creative conduits like reclaimed pipes or poles to hang them overhead.
Planters
Repurposed buckets, crates and bins make charming planters for flowers and greenery. Complement with yard sale or thrift store finds like old wheelbarrows, wagons and ladders for displaying vibrant plants.
Repurposed Furniture
Add character using salvaged wood benches, tables and seating built DIY-style. Pallets and cable spools provide affordable surfaces for dining and lounging. Top with weather-resistant cushions or pillows when it’s time to unwind.
Salvaged Material Accents
Finally, sprinkle in personal touches using budget building supplies shopped at places like Habitat for Humanity. Mix up metal pipes, old barn wood, colored glass, bricks or stones for pops of visual interest.
Keeping Costs Down
Even with a tight budget, you can construct a dream deck. Savvy savings methods help you achieve backyard bliss without drowning in debt. Here are extra ways to control spend:
DIY Building
Completing as much deck construction solo as skills allow eliminates pricey contractor labor fees. For complicated elements, barter or trade talents with handy friends. YouTube tutorials guide beginners through the building process. Rental tools also beat buying outright.
Discounted Materials
Check out budget outlets like Habitat for Humanity and thrift stores before paying retail. Buy paint, lighting and some lumber on sale or clearance when available. Sign up for promo emails and download apps from home stores for extra discounts.
Limiting Decor Upgrades
While splurges like hot tubs or outdoor kitchens scream luxury, they also tank budgets. Stick to furniture and design essentials at first. Embellish over the years or during better financial periods.
Expanding Over Time
View your inaugural floating deck as a framework for future enhancements when feasible. Modular or phased growth prevents initial burnout while handling cost constraints.
Multi-Level Decks
Start with a simple rectangular ground design that meets current expectations. Later, extend footsteps via connected staircases to secondary tiers. Integrate multi-level layouts organically as needs arise.
Gradually blend the floating deck into surrounding scenery using native plants, rocks and gravel. Emulate natural themes with arched trellises, contained fire bowls and trickling water features for ambience. Let the outdoor area mature alongside your vision.
Building a dreamy floating deck sanctuary doesn’t require breaking budgets. Prioritize basic shapes with durable untreated woods initially. Integrate cozy lighting, upcycled furniture and pops of color over time. Soon you’ll have an affordable backyard oasis tailor-made for rest and enjoyment with family and friends!
