Floating & Ground-Level Decks: What's Different

A floating or ground-level deck sits low to the ground and is not bolted to the house. Because there's no ledger — the connection that causes most deck failures — a freestanding deck sidesteps the single riskiest detail. But it changes how you handle posts and footings.

No ledger means no ledger problems

An attached deck hangs half its weight on a ledger lag-bolted into the house's band joist, which must be flashed and fastened exactly to code (IRC R507.9). A freestanding deck carries its whole load on its own beams and posts at both ends, so there's nothing to pull away from the house and no flashing to leak. That's why builders often go freestanding when the band joist is questionable — brick veneer, stucco, or engineered floor joists.

Footings: when can you skip the deep piers?

• If the deck surface is 30" or less above grade and the deck is freestanding, many jurisdictions allow it to 'float' on precast deck blocks or shallow pads instead of frost-depth piers — because a little seasonal movement won't hurt anything not tied to the house.
• Anything attached to the house, or taller, still needs footings below the frost line so the two structures move together.
• Local rules vary widely — always confirm with your building department before you decide to skip frost piers.

Sizing is otherwise the same

Joists, beams and posts on a floating deck follow the same IRC R507 span tables as any other deck — the load doesn't change just because it's low. Use the calculator to size the framing, then decide on footings based on your height and whether it's attached. Guards are still required once you're over 30" above grade.