How To Build A Cheaper Deck Using Wood Pallets And Concrete Blocks

Decks are perfect for hosting gatherings, relaxing with a nice book, or giving yourself another place to decorate if you're already out of room. Unfortunately, they're not perfect for budgets. A simple, inexpensive deck tends to cost around $30 per square foot, which means you could be paying thousands for a relatively small one. But there is a much cheaper DIY approach: use concrete blocks as the base and wood pallets as the deck surface to create a simple, low-cost platform for your yard or garden.

You may be able to find free wood pallets in your community, as businesses or organizations sometimes have extras they don't need. Even if this isn't an option, pallets are generally pretty affordable. They generally cost less than $25 each, unless you're investing in extra-large or heavy-duty ones, and cinder blocks are typically only a few dollars each. How many of each you'll need will depend on how large you want your deck to be. You'll need enough wood pallets to fill the entire space, laid flat, with one cinder block at each corner to rest on. Adjacent pallets can share blocks at their corner intersections, reducing the number needed. You'll also need a drill and screws, and optionally a shovel, construction fabric, sand, and any paint, stain, or other decorative elements you want to add.

It's important to note that a deck built solely from blocks and pallets can be used for outdoor spaces like gardens or as a temporary entertainment solution, but it isn't meant to be permanently attached to a house. Without proper footings, parts of the deck can lift and become uneven. You also likely need a permit to attach one to your home.

If you're reusing wood pallets from elsewhere, make sure they're in good condition. You can clean mold and mildew from wooden decks, but full rot or heavily damaged boards are a different story. It's better to know now if you'll need a replacement than find out later by putting a foot through the deck. Look for intact pallets with no signs of major splitting, decay, or chemical contamination.

Level the area so your cinder blocks don't wobble, then place them regularly throughout the area. If you aren't sure how far to space them, lay your pallets out and mark each place where the corner of one or more will fall. You may need to dig slightly to lower some cinder blocks if you're building on a hill to ensure they're level. A stable surface is especially useful here; small height differences can leave the finished deck uneven or bouncy.

If your deck is only meant to be temporary, then placing the blocks on a flat surface may be enough. However, for a sturdier structure that'll be staying for a bit longer, you can create a better base for your deck by digging holes, lining them with construction fabric, then filling them with sand and packing it in. The sand provides a stable resting place for your cinder blocks, and the fabric keeps it in place. All that's left is to lay your wood pallets on top, screw them together, and add your decorative elements! You can add extra wood between the slats to create a sturdier top if you want, and seal it to protect it from the rain. Check out these small deck ideas for tips on decorating your new outdoor space.