Are you considering building a beautiful new deck over your old concrete floor or patio? Installing a deck over concrete can make your outdoor living area more attractive and functional. However, it is important to note that you need to follow best practices.

When laid properly, decking over concrete has many lasting benefits. Especially if you choose durable EVODEK premium composite decking boards.

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1. Can You Build a Deck over Concrete?

A strong concrete patio is a good foundation for a new deck. On the other hand, a cracked or sinking patio can cause you problems. You need to know the right questions to ask before you start working. That’s because not all concrete slabs can have a new deck built on them.

If you’re new to DIY deck installation on your own or don’t know how to inspect your backyard. Then you may need to hire a professional to make sure you have a safe and solid patio. This is because a strong and durable concrete patio is important for building a new deck.

1.1 Will This Project Obstruct Any Doors?

When you build a deck over a concrete patio, the surface of the deck will rise at least a few inches. This can easily get in the way of existing doors or make the space between floors dangerous for tripping.

If the existing door is less than a few inches above the concrete patio, there may not be enough room in the substructure of the new deck. Then you will need to make modifications to the deck plan.

You can build steps between the deck and the yard, or build a ramp leading to the deck from the back door. Check your local building codes and install a safety deck railing if the deck surface is higher than 30 inches, or any height beyond what is required by local codes. A proper deck railing not only protects pedestrians, it also makes your yard more aesthetically pleasing.

1.2 Is There More than One Level to an Existing Deck?

Depending on how the deck is built, working around stairs and flooring can make the job more difficult. A patio layout can help you decide if you want to build a multi-level deck. You can build substructures of the same height on each floor and concrete steps.

More work is required to turn a multi-level patio into a deck with only one level. The substructure of the lower deck needs to be tall enough to be level with the foundation of the upper deck. If there is a six-inch difference in the height of the two decks, then you should make the lower deck six inches taller. You can accomplish this by adding six inches of clearance or stringer height.

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In addition, the stair steps that are already there will need to be raised the same amount to accommodate the new height. If the elevation is significant, you may need to build new stairs.

1.3 Is the Concrete Deck Intact?

It is important to check the existing concrete for problems such as cracks, shifting, or standing water. Over time, extreme weather can cause concrete to expand and contract. As a result, all decks will need some repairs at some point.

Damaged concrete patios need to be repaired before spending money on a new deck:

• Sinking: When the deck surface sinks, it needs to be mud-sealed or replaced
• Water damage: Find and fix leaks, repair or replace broken concrete
• Cracks: Use cement, latex, or mortar mix to repair small cracks, but replace slabs with large cracks

If the patio has large cracks or is badly damaged, you may not be able to build a new deck on it. Depending on the height, you may not need to remove the concrete if you can drill or cut the concrete and install a post-and-foot foundation.

2. How to Build a Deck Over Concrete

After you’ve inspected the concrete and created a plan for your deck, it’s time to get your materials ready and get started. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure that your new deck will last for a long time and provide you with a safe and comfortable place to relax outdoors.

2.1 Prepare the Right Materials and Tools

To build a deck on a concrete patio, you will need the right tools. If you don’t have these tools, you can rent or buy them at a nearby hardware store. You should also make sure that all of your products can be used outdoors.

If you are installing a sleeper system that is attached to concrete. Keep in mind that you will need different tools and materials.

Tools:	Materials:
• Miter saw • Jigsaw • Cordless driver • Hammer • Measuring tape • Level • String line • Shovel	• Flashing tape • Decking boards • Joist boards • Concrete fasteners • Deck board fasteners • Framing lumber • Concrete

How much time and money you spend depends on the goals and plans for the project. Most decks take a few days to build. If the plan is complex or the builder is not up to scratch, it may take longer.

2.2 Constructing a Strongly Connected Substructure

To ensure that the deck is secure and well installed, it is important that the foundation is properly laid. Foundations can be built using a standard post and footing system. If building on concrete, a sleeper system can be used. Fasteners such as tap bolts are used to attach the sleeper system directly to the concrete and lift the top of the deck.

For better durability and waterproofing, we recommend using post feet to raise the substructure. When using a sleeper system, the joists are attached directly to the concrete. This means that any problems with the concrete slab will show up on the deck. For example, sinking, shifting, or uneven installation.

In general, these steps will help you install a post-footing foundation over concrete:

• Measure the perimeter: Use a string line to figure out how long the deck is and where the support posts and footings will be located along the framing. This is based on the size and distance of the joists.
• Laying concrete footings: Install concrete footings in the correct location and make sure they are below the frost line where you live. If the floor slab passes through the footings, the old concrete will need to be removed and new concrete put in.
• Install pillars: Place the pillars on the foundation, making sure that the concrete and timber do not come into direct contact with each other so that they are not damaged by water.
• Assemble the frame: Install joists, blocks, soffits, and other substructure components to complete the frame.

During the building process, pay attention to the joists and foundation. You need to make sure the joists are level and the top is in a straight line. Ensure that the ledger boards are installed correctly to keep the structure safe and sound.

2.3 Protecting the Substructure with Joist Tape

Wood can crack, split, and rot when exposed to water. It is therefore important to ensure that the deck is watertight. You can protect your joists from water and damage by applying joist waterproofing tape to the top of the joists. This prevents the growth of mold, mildew, and rot, which makes the structure stronger and extends the life of your deck.

For optimal safety, apply joist waterproofing tape to the top of the joists. Pay close attention to the joist board area, as it is an important part of the deck structure.

In addition to joist tape, you may also want to install a deck drainage system under your deck. Deck drainage systems to prevent water from entering the deck and the structure below. This prevents water from pooling and allows more space under the deck to be used.

2.4 Installing the Surface Deck

After the understructure of the deck has been completed and properly treated to prevent water damage, it is time to lay the surface of the deck.

How you lay the deck depends on the type of material you choose, the design of the deck, the fasteners used, and other factors. If you need help with installation, be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a trained professional. Here are some best practices to follow:

• Use shims to ensure that the deck planks are always in the same position.
• Add border fascia or edge boards to cover unsightly board ends and complete the look of the deck.
• For a smooth appearance, use hidden fasteners.

If you are installing a wood deck, the boards will need to be sanded, stained, and sealed. The sealer will need to dry before you can use the deck. However, as soon as the last plank is laid, the constructed deck is ready for use.

2.5 Decorating the Deck Surface

In addition to deck planks, you may need stairs, railings, and deck lights to complete your build. Decks over 30 inches in height usually require railings. However, this may vary where you live, so check and follow local building regulations. In addition, stairs make things easier to get to, and lights make things safer and more aesthetically pleasing.

Once all the components are installed, you’ll be ready to enjoy the great outdoors with your new deck.

3. To Summarize

Choosing the right decking material can make your deck stronger and more durable. EVODEK can provide you with high-quality composite decking boards. These composite decks not only have the look of solid wood, but also have excellent resistance to water, mold and fading. With composite decking, you can have more time to enjoy life.

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