Anyone here use Dek Blocks?

[NWMNMom]

We just built a 14x16 deck on the end of our pool using them. We have 8 under there - depending on where you get the plans, they call for more or less. The same basic deck plan we have at one place called for 18 blocks, one called for 6 blocks and the one we used called for 8 blocks. All of the plans look exactly the same up top. I guess it depends on how solid you want it. Ours is pretty darn solid - it never moved after 65mph wind gusts in a storm, no swaying, no sagging and we are using composite.

[matt4x4]

I find that the deck block plans (plans put out by the actual block company) seem to really push the use of the block - I guess that's good marketing - if you can sell someone (or everyone) who downloads your plans 3x what's needed, then your income just increased marginally.

I believe that the designs are for the worst case scenario soil that you will be building on, if your soil cannot support much weight, it makes sense that you would need many blocks, however, if you're building directly on bedrock, the number of blocks required would be significanly reduced.

[tphaggerty]

Just remember, you can only build an UNATTACHED deck using these. If you plan to attach the deck to your house or your pool, you will have huge problems. These blocks are designed to "float" up and down with the soil level (due to frost heaving). I have my 10x10 shed built on them and it works great, but that is a standalone building.

[NWMNMom]

Right, we are not connected to anything. The deck is built the same level as the pool (52") and has a gap between the pool and deck so we can work on the pool if need be, put covers on, etc. We bridge with a 10" wide matching board sold as header board that straddles the deck and the top rail with hinges on the deck side so each section flips up/back towards the deck and we can reach down in there to work. The gap also protects so we don't have pool or deck moving and crashing in to the other. We can make level adjustments for heaving very easily with the deck blocks too.

[tphaggerty]

Also, if this gets inspected, you might check with your local BI to make sure that he/she is OK with these. Mine was skeptical when I discussed pool deck plans with him (I didn't wind up using these on the pool deck), but did say that they would pass inspection.... reluctantly.

[kdd3]

I wish we didn't have to use dek blocks, but we have so many rocks! I'm hoping the blocks will make it easier.

We are using the plans on their website and have 4 out of 18 frames built so far. We're hoping to start putting it all together by this weekend.

Thanks for the responses and link to the deck pictures.

[Poolidiot]

I built my deck with the deck blocks. I am very happy with the product. I get winds here up to 60mph and my deck has not budged. I say if you are thinking of using the deck block system you will not be disappointed.

[ScottS]

We just built a 14x16 deck on the end of our pool using them. We have 8 under there - depending on where you get the plans, they call for more or less. The same basic deck plan we have at one place called for 18 blocks, one called for 6 blocks and the one we used called for 8 blocks. All of the plans look exactly the same up top. I guess it depends on how solid you want it. Ours is pretty darn solid - it never moved after 65mph wind gusts in a storm, no swaying, no sagging and we are using composite.

I am looking to build a deck around the same size that you mentioned. Can you list some other resources for the deck plans? I'd rather use less blocks as you mentioned.

Thank you!

[NWMNMom]

We built ours using the program/computer they have at Menards. The program is the same at Lowes. I think Lowes even has it online for free, you just register.

[gonefishin]

I would urge people to check with the building codes in your city. We have two Home Depot Stores in our city that sell the Dek-Blocks. But when I asked the city they said that Dek Blocks were not up to city code.

I'd check with your city before assuming that they are up to code.

Happy swimming!
dan