Changes to an existing deck

3 years ago

I’ve recently had a decking built over two levels but have been wishing I had’ve had it all built at the higher level.

The deck wraps around my brick house & runs right up to the brickwork. There is also a roof that covers both decks and the roof support posts run around the outside of both decks (roof sits approximately 5m above the lower level deck)

I’m wondering if it’s possible to raise the lower level deck so it will be at the same height as the higher level deck? (Approximately 2 metres higher)

Is it at all possible to take the decking boards up from the lower level deck and use the existing posts and frame as support for a new frame that is higher and then re lay the decking boards back down on the higher frame?

Or, does this need to have completely new posts concreted in, frame re done etc?

The height it would need to be raised is around 2 metres to match the existing, higher level deck.

I have no idea about this sort of thing, just looking to see if there is a way it can be done or if it’s a case of starting from scratch with new posts concreted in etc.

Thanks very much for reading 😊

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Comments (4)

Kate
3 years ago
Shouldn’t be a major issue but get your builder in to check and quote.
PRO
Dr Retro House Calls
3 years ago
With all due respect to Kate, from my understanding of your description you will need to redo all of your posts as they will need to be 2 metres longer. You can't just glue 2m extension posts on top of the old supports. Everything will need to be properly engineered to comply with the standards, including new footings and beams designed by a suitably qualified engineer.

You don't want to repeat history with this disaster due to an inadequately engineered deck and a party which ended up with two women losing their lives.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-06-03/melbourne-balcony-collapse-killed-women-coroners-court/12317406

Collapsing balconies can kill people so don't risk it by trying to do it cheaply, or getting the well-meaning advice of your friendly local builder who wants to secure the job with his "She'll be right mate" attitude.

I just don't understand why you had it built at such different levels and didn't realize that it would be a problem?

Best of luck,

Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls and Dr Retro Virtual Visits
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Kate
3 years ago
I was thinking posts go right up to roof. It really depends on how it is built. The loads are still the same. A registered builder is needed to confirm and they will advise if structural redesign is needed.
PRO
Paul Di Stefano Design
3 years ago
more than likely the deck structure and the roof support posts are separate

bear in mind too there may be potentially overlooking to neighbours consequences if you have neighbouring property within 9m of the deck

Changes to an existing deck

Comments (4)

Kate

Dr Retro House Calls

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Kate

Paul Di Stefano Design

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