I am building the 12' X 12' side pool deck using 5/4 decking for the floor boards. Why does this design have 9 more Dek-Blocks and support posts compared to the plan that uses 2 x 6 floor boards? I'd rather not use the 9 additional blocks and supports if possible.
Also, is it truly ok to put the Dek-Blocks on bare ground or should I put a layer of gravel/stone down first, then the blocks on top of that.
Excellent question. The design has 9 more piers because there are more support boards. There are more support boards because 5/4 lumber can only span 16 inches while 2x6 lumber can span as far as 30 inches.
Yes. You can put the blocks right on the ground. Just pick the block up a couple of times and drop it to tamp the area.