Deckman,

I was told by a local builder when building a pool deck using the dek-blocks, I should dig down about 6 inches and fill it with #2 crushed stone and then place the blocks on the stone. Will this help with any potential 'sinking' problems with a wet ground??

Thanks.

Generally speaking, most people that build decks around the pool with our floating foundation deck system, put the Dek-Blocks right on the grass or ground. However, you can put a compacted base layer, if you want. It depends on where you live and your ground conditions. I attached a ground preparation guidline link from this site.

www.deckplans.com/FAQ/05_FAQ_GroundPrep.html

Deckman

I would recomend undisturbed soil over crushed stone. If you dig down and install crushed stone you may create a "bathtub" for the water to set in. If you live in a winter climate your deck will move. You can dig down a few inches and use crushed stone, just make sure you provide drainage for the hole you just dug....

Deckman,

We installed a 28' pool earlier this year and poured pea gravel around it "3-6" deep 4' out all the way around as a temporary walkway. I am starting the splash deck and understand it is ok to place blocks directly on top of crushed gravel. What about pea gravel (small river rock). Should I bury blocks in gravel and set on ground?

Also, I was told by a contractor that I could build the sections without hangers if I used 4-5 3" ring shank nails at each connection. He said to be sure and use screws everywhere else and lags for cross bracing. This way saves a little time and money. What do you think?

You can put gravel under the piers. The following link will explain this better.

deckplans.com/support/faq/buildingsite.html#ground

You should use the metal brackets where called out. If you make changes like that its hard to offer advice. Your builder is well intentioned but if you have a problem its much easier to help you if you follow our instructions.

Deckman

Chappy65s idea doesn't sound too bad. I guess I'll try that next year.