Learn How to DIY a Floating Deck with The Awesome Orange

Learn How to DIY a Floating Deck with The Awesome Orange

We teamed up with Sadie Mae Johns (aka The Awesome Orange) to build a floating deck next to her pool so she can catch some rays and maximize her outdoor space. This moderndesign deck was built with Simpson Strong-Tie® fasteners and connectors to ensure she has a safe, strong deck. 

Sadie Mae Johns leveling out the landscape
Sadie Mae Johns leveling out the landscape

Sadie was inspired to build a floating deck in her backyard after eyeing a barren hill in her backyard. She decided to level the dirt and create space for a build. To bring her vision to life, Sadie used our free Deck Planner Software™ 

Simpson Strong-Ties 3” Structural Deck Screws - DSVT3R
Simpson Strong-Ties 3” Structural Deck Screws – DSVT3R

As for the deck itself, Sadie used 2×8 boards for the outside fascia boards and 2×6s for the internal joists. She secured them using Simpson Strong-Tie 3 Deck-Drive DSV WOOD Screw. 

Framed with Simpson Strong-Tie Corner Brackets- ML26Z.
Framed with Simpson Strong-Tie Corner Brackets- ML26Z.

Additionally, because her deck was square, she secured the corners with the ML Angle corner brackets to help keep them from moving. Sadie also fastened her deck joists with 3 Deck-Drive DSV Wood screws 

Simpson Strong-Tie Joist Hangers - LUS26Z Each hole gets a fastener.
Simpson Strong-Tie Joist Hangers – LUS26Z

She used Simpson Strong-Tie LUS Joist Hangers installed with 1 1/2 SD screws (SD9112R) to connect the joists to the supporting ledgers. Simpson Strong-Tie 2 1/2 SD (SD9212R) screws were used to fasten the joist to the connecting board. 

Joist rest on the deck blocks
Joist rest on the deck blocks

It’s the perfect project for sprucing up your backyard and making it even more fun to hang out by the pool. We love how her deck turned out and can’t wait to see what other projects Sadie has planned. You can learn more about Sadie’s floating deck on her blog where she takes you step by step through her build. Also, check out her YouTube video, Building a Floating Deck for instructions on how to DIY a floating deck for your own backyard. 

And remember, building codes vary by region. Always consult your local building codes before embarking on a DIY project of this size.

Author: Sadie Mae John The Awesome Orange

Sadie Mae John aka The Awesome Orange is a brand ambassador with Simpson Strong-Tie. She DIYs all types of awesome projects with the help of our hardware.