Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Should I remove grass before building deck?

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PeterRoss
05-29-05, 09:12 AM
I am just about to try building a deck and some have told me to remove the grass, put down a weed shield and then layer on 1 to 2 inches of gravel. Is this really necessary? I read the "Deck Building: How to Build a Deck Introduction" on this fantastic site, and no mention is made of this step. I would love to save my back!

Thanks for your help.
Peter

marksr
05-29-05, 10:55 AM
Although grass removal, cloth barrier and gravel will make it look nicer it is not necessary. Depending on the height of the deck the grass will probably die anyway although I prefer to go ahead and spray grass killer on it. Do make sure you dig up the grass and topsoil where your post will be.

It always pays to be nice to your back :)
PeterRoss
05-29-05, 11:43 AM
Thank you for your response marksr! Grass killer is a good suggestion and I will also be removing sod around the steps and adding gravel to make it look better.

Hellrazor
05-29-05, 03:18 PM
You can spray it and add the stone, just make sure you dig and form up your footers for the posts first or you will be in for a world of fun.