Need help with a ground level deck...

[Bluesman]

I am looking into building a ground level L-shaped deck, roughly 12 x

1. Needs to be low as the bulkhead is right in the middle on the plan, and the access to the cellar must remain.

I recently decontrcuted a sandbox that was on my property that was 8 x

8 and made with pressure treated wood that is still in decent shape. I was thinking to use these as beams to lay the decking on.

I want to anchor these beams into the ground, but not sure how to do this. 2 foot dep holes and quick dry cement?

Also, as the deck will be about 6 inches high, do I have to remove the grass underneath, or will it just turn brown and die?

Thoughts are appreciated.

Bluesman

[Steve Nekias]

I built a 16' x 24' deck directly on grade 15 years ago, and it has lasted well without any shifting.

I used a non-selective weed killer (Killex or RoundUp)then I built up

2 ridges of small crushed stone (maximum 1/4") about 6" high and 3' wide and as long as the deck design. The stone needs to be firmly compacted and carefully leveled.

On top of the ridges, I placed 4'x4' beams, laid landscaping fabric to prevent weed growth, then I placed the deck joists on top of the 4x4s at 90 degrees at 16" centers. I used pressure treated lumber all-round.

Good luck.

Mr. Fixit eh.