Have never built or detailed a wood deck that wasn’t elevated at least a couple feet above finished grade. Now I have a need to create one that’s only about a foot above finished grade.
I’m envisioning a concrete wall <to frostline> in place of a traditional wood girder, with a PT bearing plate on top, set about 2″ above finished grade. Framed with 2×8’s, this would give ~2″ of clearance below the joists. Don’t concern yourself with spans, I can handle that – I’m mostly seeking input on the frost heave issue. New England climate.
I would like to see about a foot of drainable material below (gravel) to try and discourage water from having a chance to freeze & heave.
Is there a better way? Suggestions wanted.