Deck questions

[Odd Job]

Hi first post,
I have read through many of the deck threads. Allain Stains book was mentioned in nearly every one, so i bought it before starting my first deck.
This has lead to me needing clarification on a couple of things.

1 Why dosent he or others on this forum use concrete stumps.
2 why does he list the deck level to be at least 50mm below floor level.

Thanks in advance

[Vernonv]

Welcome Odd Job,

To try and answer your questions:

1. Probably because they are heavy and more difficult to "level". Personally I prefer steel (galvanised) - light, easy to handle, won't rot, but is only slightly easier to level than concrete (unless you use something like uni-piers which are probably easier than timber).

2. Don't know why 50mm, but generally you don't want water from the deck running off and inside your house.

[Odd Job]

Thanks Vernon,

That all makes sense. I've never seen steel stumps so will look into them.

Odd Job.

[Vernonv]

Odd Job,
One more thing - if you are doing a low deck, you can also use those steel post stirrups. They are easily available and pretty cheap.