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The Daily Insight

Can you put decking on a slope

Author

David Edwards

Updated on May 21, 2026

To begin building your deck on a slope, go up to the top of the hill and dig two holes deep enough to reach solid soil, which may require you to dig for a few feet. These holes are where the footings that support your deck will be placed. Make sure both of the holes have a diameter of about a foot.

Can you build decking on a slope?

The disadvantages to building a deck on a slope include the fact that the ground isn’t flat and you won’t be able to build a structure that’s level. You’ll also need to pay attention to the slope grade and ensure the deck is both secure and stable.

Can you put decking on a sloped garden?

A sloped garden can be a difficult space to use. However, one of the benefits of decking is that a deck can be built in almost any outdoor area. That means that, even if your garden is uneven or sloped, you can probably still install a deck.

How do you lay decking on a sloping ground?

Method 1: Cemented support posts decking base To build a decking base on sloped uneven ground: Clear the area of all grass, weeds and debris using a good quality spade. Dig 1ft deep post holes. Set the posts using post mix so that the top is at or slightly above the desired height.

Do you need planning permission for decking on slope?

If the decking is being added to the garden of a house, is no more than 30cm above the ground, and takes up less than 50% of the total garden space (combined with any outbuildings or extensions), the decking project would be considered as a permitted development, and therefore would not require planning permission.

How high can decking be without planning permission?

Putting up decking, or other raised platforms, in your garden is permitted development, not needing an application for planning permission, providing: The decking is no more than 30cm above the ground.

How do you build a deck on a slope UK?

  1. Build the frame.
  2. Once your posts have been set following the manufacturer’s instructions, it’s time to put in the centre point posts. Put them dead centre in between your existing corner posts. …
  3. Add joists. …
  4. Build your steps. …
  5. Lay your decking boards.

How do you install decking on uneven concrete?

  1. Measure and construct the garden deck’s frame. Gather bricks and temporary support beams of various heights.
  2. Nail the deck frame onto the support beams. …
  3. Finish the levelled deck surface: attach stringers to the frame and fasten decking to the stringers.

What fall is needed on decking?

REMEMBER: TO ACHIEVE RAIN WATER “RUN OFF” DECKING SHOULD BE LAID ON A SLIGHT GRADIENT. THE TOTAL LENGTH OF THE DECK SHOULD HAVE A FALL OF AT LEAST 1 IN 80 (1.25%) WITH THE GROOVES IN THE DIRECTION OF THE FALL.

Can you level a garden with decking?

Decking makes a wonderful site leveler because it can create a large and level seating area in a spot that was formerly unusable. It is also much less labour intensive than leveling out an area and building a flat patio. This means less out of pocket costs for you when it comes to installation.

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Does decking need a balustrade?

It’s important to bear in mind that if your wooden decking is of a considerable height, along with planning permission you will also be required to install a handrail. For safety purposes regulations state that anything built over 600 mm will require a handrail with a height of at least 110 mm above the decking board.

Should a deck be level or sloped UK?

A solid deck needs to be sloped between a 1/8″ (3mm) and ¼” (6mm) per foot to encourage water drainage. Decks with properly gapped decking boards require no slope as rain will naturally run off the boards even when level.

Is a deck considered a permanent structure?

A traditional deck has posts cemented below ground level, making the deck a permanent structure and subject to local building codes.

What is classed as ground level?

The term ‘ground level’, or ‘ground floor’, is used to refer to the level of a building that is at ground / street level. The term ‘storey’ tends to refer to all levels of a building above the ground level. It can also refer to the level of ground that has not be built on.

Can I use 4x2 for decking frame?

4 x 2 Timber Rail / Joist These decking joists are the most common sized framing timber for decking. They provide a solid structure for fixing your decking boards too. When making your decking frame you should use a 400mm spacing between your timber joists.

Can you build a wood deck on the ground?

Yes, you can build a deck directly on the ground, but with some conditions. A deck on the ground must be built with ground-contact wood, and the substructure needs to be adapted for minimal height. … The wrong joist and beam material in contact with the ground will quickly rot, making your deck, garbage.

Does a ground level deck need footings?

If you want to expand your outdoor living space, a ground level deck might be your best option. Since it’s not connected to a house, it can go anywhere in your yard and doesn’t require deep footings. Because it rises just inches above ground, it doesn’t need stairs or railings.

Can I build a deck to the boundary?

If your deck is close to a boundary, and you have the written approval from your neighbours, you can apply for a Deemed Permitted Boundary Activity. This application replaces the need to apply for a resource consent. You will still need to apply for a building consent, if required.

Can I build a deck up to my fence?

Adjoining property rights, for example, allow you to build a new pergola, deck or patio so long as it doesn’t interfere with your neighbours or their property.

How high off the ground can a deck be without a railing?

If your deck is below 30 inches, a railing is not required. With that said, if you choose to build a deck, even if it is only 24 inches off the ground, that is still high enough that even an adult could injure themselves.

How much does it cost to level a deck?

Multi-Level Deck CostsDeck itemLow CostAverage CostSquare foot cost$16.75 to $19.75$23.75 to $29.50MaterialBasic woodMid-gradeAccessoriesBasicStandard

Does a deck have to be level?

In a nutshell, the easy answer is this—no, your deck should never be level with your home. That’s because of the threat most feared by even the bravest DIYers and homeowners: water damage. If your deck or patio sits at the same height as your home, you’re making it easy for water to get inside and wreak havoc.

How much of a slope should a deck have?

Most contractors suggest sloping the deck 1/4th- 1/8th of an inch for every foot of decking. With this slope, the difference isn’t terribly noticeable to those standing on the surface but your chance of ponding is reduced greatly.

What direction should decking run?

The correct way to lay decking boards for most decking is smooth-side-up, with the ridges there to prevent rot and mould.

Do composite decks need a slope?

Frame your composite deck This frame lends strength and function to the deck. You should include a slope of 1/16 inch per foot to allow water to move away from the walls. This will be part of the code structure for permits.

Can you build a deck over uneven concrete?

The deck can be built away from the slab. This will make it easier for you to plan a regular deck and not have to deal with the uneven slab. The uneven slab can be removed and the area levelled. Please note that even by removing the slab there may not be enough space between your interior floor and the outside area.

Can I put decking over slabs?

Even if your patio is in terrible shape, you can deck over it. Cracks, craters and seasonal movement along cracks are no problem. … (depending on the thickness of your decking and whether or not you put spacers under the sleepers). So any door thresholds adjoining the patio must be at least that far above the concrete.

What should I put between wood and concrete?

Anyplace where wood meets the ground or concrete, the lumber must be pressure treated. For additional moisture protection, a gasket or strip of closed-cell foam can be installed between the concrete foundation and the sill plate.

What can I do with a sloping garden?

  1. Add stone walls for interest. …
  2. Create a defined route. …
  3. Create a unique garden path with edged borders. …
  4. Don’t be afraid to experiment. …
  5. Plant ornamental grasses. …
  6. Plant according to your space. …
  7. Consider the cost of terracing. …
  8. Avoid a perfect lawn.

How do you level a sloping ground?

Buy a top dressing mixture or make up your own using two parts of sand, two parts topsoil and one part compost. Fill out the depressions evenly and compact the soil with your feet or a rake, then water. Leave for two days, then add grass seed and a light layer of topsoil.

How high can a deck be without a balustrade?

He’d made a point of building his deck so as to stay under the 30-inch requirement–which is the maximum deck height you can have without a railing.