Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Nailing decking into existing concrete patio?

To put in my deck I am faced with removing an existing concrete patio...a few people at work have told me that on their homes there are places where the decking (wood) is nailed directly into the concrete patio...this would solve my concrete removal problem and give me the option of having a 2 level deck -- one level at patio level and the rest of the deck perhaps 6 inches higher...

I thought they were crazy when they told me about this but if it is feasible it would solve a lot of my problems

Will wood decking nailed directly to a concrete patio last??

youd have a real hard time "toenailing" into concrete ... what is typically done.. you nail 2x4s on the flat into the concrete to act as sleepers. If you want a different level run these sleepers perpindicular to the direction of the joists.. then toe nail the joists to the sleepers as long as the concrete is stable structurally you should have no problems. In some states you need a liscense to operate a powder actuated nailer gun to shoot the sleepers in. THey are 50 bucks at lowes or so.. no liscense in PA dont know of other states. WIthout knowing your height dimensions its a bit hard to advise..you can deck right over sleepers if you want to keep a low profile for door clearance it would be 3 inch added height. Of course to get a higher value you would use joists of appropriate thickness. Alot of people will tell you not to put concrete and wood together.. you could put down flashing under the sleepers if this is a big concern but my advice.. special order .60 treated lumber for the sleepers or joists taht will contact the concrete and apply a quality soak like cuprinol before installing. This will last as long as the rest of the deck components if done right.. Hope this helps--Josh