#Floating Deck Blocks

Once there’s a solid reference point, the outer frame goes in first. The first four blocks are set back about 12" (300 mm) so they stay hidden, which creates a small overhang that can be supported later with blocking. Some of that blocking was added early - timing isn’t critical, as long as it’s done. You might notice a bit of sag at this stage, but that gets corrected once the rest of the joists and blocking are installed. On a deck this size, pushing an overhang much past 12" (300 mm) isn’t ideal, so a few extra TuffBlocks and more blocking were added for proper support. Not a deal breaker - just part of the learning process. Curious how you would’ve handled it? Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

Once there’s a solid reference point, the outer frame goes in first. The first four blocks are set back about 12" (300 mm) so they stay hidden, which creates a small overhang that can be supported later with blocking. Some of that blocking was added early - timing isn’t critical, as long as it’s done. You might notice a bit of sag at this stage, but that gets corrected once the rest of the joists and blocking are installed. On a deck this size, pushing an overhang much past 12" (300 mm) isn’t ideal, so a few extra TuffBlocks and more blocking were added for proper support. Not a deal breaker - just part of the learning process. Curious how you would’ve handled it? Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

A common question is what happens if the ground settles over time. The key thing to understand is that no single block is carrying the full load. The weight is distributed across the entire structure - from the deck boards and blocking, through the joists and hangers, right down to the foundations. If minor settling does occur, the surrounding blocks simply take on a bit more of the load. With each TuffBlock rated to 1,700 lbs (770 kg) and this deck using 40 blocks, there’s plenty of capacity built into the system. Realistically, the deck will never see anywhere near that kind of weight, but it’s good to know the foundation is more than up to the task. Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

A common question is what happens if the ground settles over time. The key thing to understand is that no single block is carrying the full load. The weight is distributed across the entire structure - from the deck boards and blocking, through the joists and hangers, right down to the foundations. If minor settling does occur, the surrounding blocks simply take on a bit more of the load. With each TuffBlock rated to 1,700 lbs (770 kg) and this deck using 40 blocks, there’s plenty of capacity built into the system. Realistically, the deck will never see anywhere near that kind of weight, but it’s good to know the foundation is more than up to the task. Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

The goal here is simple: build a ground-level floating deck without concrete footings, heavy blocks, or attaching anything to the house. That’s where TuffBlock comes in. It’s an instant foundation system that makes deck building far more approachable for the average DIYer. Lightweight, easy to level, and versatile enough to support everything from a 4x4 (90×90mm) post to larger framing members, with each block rated to 1,700 lbs (770 kg). To make things even easier, BuildTuff’s deck chart and calculator let you plug in your deck size and instantly see how many TuffBlocks you’ll need — no guesswork required. Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

The goal here is simple: build a ground-level floating deck without concrete footings, heavy blocks, or attaching anything to the house. That’s where TuffBlock comes in. It’s an instant foundation system that makes deck building far more approachable for the average DIYer. Lightweight, easy to level, and versatile enough to support everything from a 4x4 (90×90mm) post to larger framing members, with each block rated to 1,700 lbs (770 kg). To make things even easier, BuildTuff’s deck chart and calculator let you plug in your deck size and instantly see how many TuffBlocks you’ll need — no guesswork required. Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

Time to add joist tape. Some builders swear by it, others say they’ve never used it and their decks are still standing decades later. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Do your research, weigh up the cost, and decide what makes sense for your build. If it fits the budget, it’s one of those steps that can add a bit of extra protection long term. As the saying goes — better glad you did than wish you had. What do you reckon? Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

Time to add joist tape. Some builders swear by it, others say they’ve never used it and their decks are still standing decades later. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Do your research, weigh up the cost, and decide what makes sense for your build. If it fits the budget, it’s one of those steps that can add a bit of extra protection long term. As the saying goes — better glad you did than wish you had. What do you reckon? Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

Not every deck board is going to be perfect — and that’s okay. When a board has a bit of warp, a tool like the CAMO Lever makes it much easier to straighten it while keeping your spacing consistent. The CAMO hidden fastener system helps maintain a clean 1/16" (1.5mm) gap, but the real key is starting with the straightest board you have. That first board becomes your reference point. With longer boards, it’s worth laying them out first and checking for any natural curves or defects. Use your eye or a string line, work with the board instead of forcing it, and you’ll end up with a straighter, cleaner finish overall. Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

This is how you build a deck faster and smarter. Prep the ground, level the base, set your TuffBlocks. Dial in the four corners and rinse and repeat. No concrete. No curing time. Just a solid, level foundation ready to Build On. #buildtuff #tuffblocks #diydeck #decks #deckbuild

Doing things a little differently on this one. Since this is a ground-level deck and the build’s being done solo, the joist hangers are going in early to make the rest of the process easier. Anything that simplifies the work and saves time is a win. And of course, no structure is complete without giving it a quick balance test to make sure everything feels solid underfoot. 😄 Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing

Doing things a little differently on this one. Since this is a ground-level deck and the build’s being done solo, the joist hangers are going in early to make the rest of the process easier. Anything that simplifies the work and saves time is a win. And of course, no structure is complete without giving it a quick balance test to make sure everything feels solid underfoot. 😄 Build On. @justinandjessdesigns #buildtuff #tuffblock #DIYCommunity #deck #deckbuild #decking #lowes #homedepot #deckframe #deckandpatio #deckdesign #professionaldeckbuilders #deckframing