Ground Level and Multi-Level Decks - What's the Difference?
- Mar 24
- 5 min read
At Elite Home Solutions, we take pride in building high quality decks. We install ground and multi-level decks at homes across Northwest and Northeast Arkansas. As a licensed contractor, we can construct simple or much more complex decks. Ground level decks are less than 30” from grade, have a shorter construction time, and lower costs. Multilevel decks have distinct sections or areas with multiple levels to encompass both the natural scenery and beauty of the surrounding area while providing separate and unique outdoor spaces. These decks have a longer build time and generally cost more since there are multiple levels of decking and related components. We usually receive a lot of questions about the differences, so we thought it would be a good blog topic. Here is more info on ground level decks versus multi-level decks.
Ground Level Deck
Ground level or grade level decks are often referred to as floating, platform, or 1 tier decks. But there are technical differences for those terms – a ground level deck is a deck that is less than 30” from grade and can be built in different types like a floating deck or platform. It is a one tier (1) (or single level) since it is one level. Ground level decks are great for walk-out basements and first floor living areas.
A floating deck is a deck that is not attached to the house (or structure). A floating deck provides a distinct (and separate) space for entertaining or dining. A floating deck (also called freestanding or detached deck) rests on blocks (and posts) and is not anchored deeply like a multilevel deck. This type of deck is not best for really cold climates – since freezing (and refreezing) ground can contract and expand and will cause earth movement that can impact this type of deck over time.
A platform deck is attached to the house (or structure) and is supported by a foundation. A platform deck is on the ground but usually is built at the back door to extend outdoor living space. Keep in mind that not all platform decks are ground level – only platform decks at 30” from grade are considered ground level. Platform decks can be used in multi-level decks and also can be close to the ground.
In contrast, a raised deck is a deck that is raised above ground and doesn’t sit directly at ground level. Raised decks are usually 2 to 3 feet above ground and match the height of the home’s foundation, but that ranges on design, landscape, structure, and other factors. Raised decks work well with sloped yards, elevated foundations, and second floor living areas. Since raised decks are higher than 30” – they will require handrails to protect from falling from the raised deck area.
Advantages of Ground Level Decks
Low Profile – Ground level decks sit low to the ground so in smaller spaces, these decks can make the space appear larger.
Construction Time – Ground level decks are usually smaller and less complex than decks with multiple levels or sections. Ground level decks are usually sized as small (less than 200 sq ft), medium (up to 499 sq ft), and large (more than 500 sq ft). Ground level decks can take a few days or a couple of weeks to build - depending on the design and other factors.
Cost – Ground level decks are usually much less complex than multi-level decks. Since these decks are lower to the ground, there is less material and labor involved in installation costs. However, if extensive grading or dirt work is needed for a level surface to build the deck on – that can add additional costs, but, generally, ground level decks are less expensive to construct.
Safety – Since ground level decks are closer to the ground, handrails may not be required (depends on codes and varies by local area) and it is less likely that someone could fall from the deck and have a major injury.
Disadvantages of Ground Level Decks
Moisture – Ground level decks can absorb the moisture from the soil underneath it – which can cause warping, decay, and other issues. If ground level decks do not have proper drainage – water can also pool underneath and intensify issues.
Ventilation – Ground level decks are lower to the ground and have more limited ventilation and air flow, which can be a breeding ground for mold and rot.
Privacy – Ground decks are on the ground, which makes privacy more limited since the deck is more in sight view – compared to a deck that has been raised.
Pests – Ground level decks will have more potential for pests – not just for termites and ants but also rodents.
Multi-level Deck
A multilevel deck or tiered deck is a deck with multiple levels or sections. Multi-level decks are 2+ tiers of deck that have sections or zones for outdoor living – decking could connect living areas or could focus more on outdoor living with specific sections for certain activities. Maybe there is a section for entertaining guests on one level, a firepit on another level, and a dining area on another. Or all tiers are built to capture the dynamic views of nature from different angles. Multi-level decks are complex and require extensive knowledge in construction – each tier works together with the structure to ensure the deck’s stability. These types of decks can be tired up and down and completely customized for purpose. Multilevel decks work well in sloped yards and can create natural design elements by incorporating the craftmanship of a beautiful deck into nature’s art with multiple tiers, stairs, and zones.
Advantages of Multilevel Decks:
Privacy – Multilevel decks can be customized and can raise and lower decking to enhance privacy. Ground level decks are built on the ground and are at eye level, but a multi-tier deck has different levels and zones which can be personalized.
Maximize and Extend Outdoor Living Space – Multiple level decks can create a backyard oasis with sections, levels, and zones to both enjoy nature and provide functional space. This type of deck can be constructed in a lot of ways – there is endless customization and can be personalized to create spaces for dining, socializing, cooking, relaxation, reading, games, and much more.
Disadvantages of Multi-level Decks
Construction Time – As we mentioned, multilevel decks are more complex. There is a lot of planning that goes into building a deck with multiple levels or zones. There is also more material and labor compared to building a ground level deck. Depending on levels, zones, elevations, and many other factors, multi tired decks can take 2 to 6 months or more (depending on complexity) to build.
Cost – Multi-level decks are much more complex than a ground or single level deck. Multiple level decks have added support and other components to bear the weight and maintain structural soundness of multiple tiers of decking. If tiers are tiered up or down, stairs and rails (and other components depending on height and other factors) are needed to connect the levels. These factors and others play a role in the cost of constructing a multilevel deck. Costs for multi-tier decks are based on the number of tiers, elevation, slope, size, decking materials, number of stairs, and many other factors.
If you have any questions about decks, please reach out! We are here to help! For more information on decks, check out our deck construction page.
Comments