What is a ground level deck?

A ground-level deck is a wooden platform that extends from the main part of the house at or near the ground level. It is normally built to cover rough ground or to level steep areas. The joist spacing and the size of the beams determine its height.

A ground-level deck typically works best when the floor of a house is close to the ground, or if a homeowner wants a wooden platform that avoids overhead obstacles. These decks don't require the use of ladders and, normally, don't feature guardrails or stairs, although adding a stairway proves useful if the deck is slightly elevated from the ground.