Frequently Asked Questions

PREPERATION AND INSTALLATION

Can I really do this myself?

Yes! We have many customers who are amazed at how easy the process was to install their new blokDEK® deck, many with no experience at all.

Is the blokDEK® decking system expensive? How does it compare to hiring a contractor to build a traditional deck?

At blokDEK®, we provide a quality decking system that is competitive or cheaper than hiring a deck builder. We regularly get feedback that our system was cheaper than hiring a contractor to do the work (and a lot faster, too!).

Does everything I need to build my blokDEK® arrive together?

Yes. We ship all the components you need to complete your blokDEK® together. There is no need to run to the hardware store, source other components, or use any tools.

In what sequence do I set up my new blokDEK® deck?

Always start with the frames first. Lay them all out in your desired location, then simply connect them together with our proprietary no-tool connection system (estimated time 30 minutes). Next, level the frame assembly (estimated time 15 minutes). Finally, lay the board panels on top of the frames and step on the panels to snap them into place (estimated time 15 minutes).

How do blokDEK® frames connect together?

Once you’ve laid out your modular frame bloks in order, use the provided pins to easily connect the bloks together with no tools.

How are the board panels fastened to a blokDEK® frame?

Our proprietary blokDEK® system features deck boards that are pre-installed into "board panels" that click into the aluminum decking frame. This hidden fastener style is perfect for looks as well as deck board longevity. With no screw holes in the tops of the boards, the surface dries quickly, leading to better board life.

How heavy are the components of the deck? Can I lift this myself?

Frame modules are on average 50lbs. The deck surface panels will range from 35 lbs to 50lbs depending on the type of surface (cedar is lighter than composite) and the size of the panel. We recommend two people for lifting the components to reduce strain.

Where can a blokDEK® deck be installed?

blokDEK® can be installed over gravel, dirt, concrete, grass, and just about anything else you can think of. We’ve seen it all.

Do I need a building permit?

If your blokDEK® deck is set-up as intended as a freestanding, ground-level deck, then a building permit is likely not required. In most jurisdictions, residential customers do not need a permit if their deck is under 600mm (24”) in height off the ground. Building permit requirements vary by location, so it is essential to check with your local building department to determine if a permit is needed for your project.

Is blokDEK® a freestanding deck?

Yes, blokDEK® is designed to be a freestanding, ground-level deck.  The deck's unique design creates a very strong and stable platform.

Can a blokDEK® deck be anchored to another structure?

Yes, it can. Be sure to check your local building code for rules and permitting requirements regarding “attached uncovered decks” If you want your blokDEK® system to be anchored, please contact us, and we will try to provide additional information as needed.

What kind of decking foundation is required?

If you are installing the deck on a concrete pad or hard ground, simply use the rubber feet that come with the product. For softer ground or grass, we recommend placing paving stones (customer supplied) under each leveller to spread out the load and reduce the chance of sinking. Remember, if you do notice a low spot developing, blokDEK® is easy to re-level over time.

Do I need to dig holes for footings? Does the deck require piers or piling?

No. blokDEK® is a freestanding deck and does not require any deck foundation preparation like screw piles or concrete piers. There is no digging or mixing concrete required for our products. If you wish to install your blokDEK® deck permanently, you CAN easily fasten the bloks to concrete piles, screw piles, and/or structural beams. Please contact us, and we will try to provide additional information as needed.

Does the ground need to be level before installation?

No. What makes the blokDEK® system so unique compared to other "modular" decks is that you don't need to have perfectly level ground. The blokDEK® aluminum deck frame features built-in levelling feet, allowing you to adjust the level of the deck in multiple positions up to 4". If you require leveling greater than that, we recommend simply placing the leveling feet on paving stones for additional height.

Do you recommend concrete pavers below the levelling feet?

Yes. Although not required, the addition of some simple paving stones will go a long way to provide a flat surface for the feet and reduce the chance of sinking over time.

Can I elevate the deck above the ground?

blokDEK® is designed to be a ground-level deck. While resting on the ground, the deck will finish 6-8" above the ground and can be further adjusted with the leveling feet by an additional 4" (10-12” total deck height). If only a few inches of additional height is required, we recommend stacking paving stones under the leveling feet. If further deck elevation is required (i.e. for a multi-level deck), please reach out to our team, and we will make sure you get the knowledge required for your specific application.

Can a blokDEK® deck be disassembled?

Yes! blokDEK® is easy to disassemble if you want to move it to another location or just store it for the off-season (although not required). Our unique blokDEK® modular decking system disassembles even faster than it assembles.

DESIGN AND APPLICATION

How is a blokDEK® deck so perfectly flat? Does that really matter?

A smooth, level surface enhances the overall appearance of a space, but it also ensures even load distribution, preventing stress points that could lead to structural failure. A blokDEK® deck is perfectly flat due to both our unique deck panel system and the meticulous inspection of our decking boards prior to being selected for our decking panels.

Can I expand my blokDEK® later if I want a larger deck in the future?

Yes. The beautiful thing about the blokDEK® modular system is that additional bloks can be added at any time if you decide you want to expand your deck.

Can I make an "L-Shaped Deck" or "Multi-Level Deck" using the blokDEK® system?

Absolutely. blokDEK® aluminum deck frame modules can be set up in a variety of different formats to achieve your design goals. Have a look at our customer gallery for ideas or send us examples of what you are trying to achieve, and our customer service team will be happy to assist.

What if I don’t want a square or rectangular deck shape? Can you make other shapes?

We can build many non-standard decking shapes that are not available through the website. If you have a unique design in mind, feel free to sketch it down on paper and send it over to us. We are happy to figure out the bloks that are required to build it. We do not guarantee we can do all projects, but will try our best to find you a solution within our existing decking system.

Can you make curved decking edges?

At this time, we only offer blokDEK® in straight-edge designs.

Is it possible to get “picture frame” boards using this product?

Our standardized decking system does not allow for picture framing. Our deck panels are designed with each deck board aligned parallel to the next. If you require a custom project, please connect with our team to request a quote. We do not guarantee we can do all projects, but will try our best to find you a solution within our existing decking system.

Can the blokDEK® system be cut to fit an area if it's not the exact correct fit?

No. Our decking system is built on standardized aluminum frame sizes that cannot be easily modified on the customer's end. If you require a custom project, please connect with our team to request a quote. We do not guarantee we can do all projects, but will try our best to find you a solution within our existing decking system.

Can I install a hand railing on the finished deck?

Yes. Most standard hand railing systems can be mounted to our decking system just as you would on a normal deck. Please contact us, and we will try to provide any additional information as needed for fastening the railing.

Do you offer level changes or steps?

Yes. We offer single, double, and triple steps in a wide variety of lengths. Each step offers a 6" rise and is freestanding like our decks.

Can I put a hot tub on the deck?

It depends on the weight of the hot tub. If that is the intention of the deck, then we recommend you to reach out to our custom solutions team to check the weight and location on the deck for confirmation. If you are uncertain of the total weight, you may also consider installing the deck around the hot tub. Many find this design more functional as the deck will come up higher on the hot tub for easier entry.

Is a blokDEK® decking system good to use for seasonal RV lots?

Yes! A blokDEK® decking system is an excellent choice for seasonal RV lots because it is designed for easy setup, durability, and low maintenance.

MATERIALS, SPECIFICATIONS & MAINTENANCE

What are the benefits of using Aluminum Deck Framing over other materials?

There are several reasons. Aluminum is significantly stronger than other decking materials and maintains its structural strength for decades with minimal maintenance. Aluminum is resistant to fire, warping, rotting, and cracking, as it does not absorb moisture and is unaffected by insects or mold. Plus, aluminum resists corrosion, making it suitable for installation near saltwater.

What are the biggest drawbacks of using Aluminum Deck Framing?

Before blokDEK®, aluminum deck framing was significantly more expensive than wood deck frames. It is also difficult to cut to size and build with, which makes labor costs very high and nearly impossible for a DIY project. However, this is why blokDEK®'s proprietary decking system is so unique. The modular deck framing is simple to use and allows end users to DIY for a fraction of the price of other aluminum systems (our decks are often even cheaper than wood decks!).

Is paying more for the composite decking surface worth it?

Composite decking is a great option for those who want little to no maintenance on their deck. It may come with a higher upfront cost, but the minimal upkeep and longevity of composite over wood will provide a great return on investment.

Is the increased cost of aluminum framing worth the investment?

Yes. While aluminum deck framing may have a higher initial cost, the long-term savings in maintenance, repairs, and replacement make it a more cost-effective option over time. Additionally, the increased lifespan of an aluminum-framed deck means you can enjoy it for many years without worrying about major repairs or replacements.

Is Aluminum stronger than wood framing?

Aluminum is much stronger per pound than wood making an aluminum-framed deck capable of handling higher loads with significantly less material. Additionally, aluminum will never weaken over time due to moisture, pests, and rot like other decking materials do.

Is blokDEK® a sturdy and stable deck?

Yes! blokDEK® decks are extremely stable and sturdy, thanks to their high-strength aluminum frame, secure no-tool connection system, and adjustable leveling feet. Designed to withstand heavy use and outdoor conditions, blokDEK® provides a solid, wobble-free surface for decks, patios, RV setups, and more.

Will there be issues with expansion and contraction?

Our Natural Cedar Wood Decking will have minimal expansion or contraction due to temperature but will see some change due to moisture. blokDEK® bloks have properly spaced boards to account for any expansion and contraction. Our advanced composite board panels have mineral-based technology that offers virtually no thermal or moisture expansion or contraction. All of our components are designed to move with each other without causing product malfunctions.

Is there any maintenance or staining required for the natural cedar wood deck surface?

Yes, we recommend a good water-based protection system such as Sansin Corp. This will not only keep the deck looking great, but will extend the life of your investment by several times. Be sure to always follow the application instructions provided by the manufacturer.

How durable is this product?

Extremely durable. The frame is made of industrial gauge aluminum and is powder-coated. There is no need to worry about damaging the frame, as it is very difficult to do and is backed by a Limited Lifetime warranty. For the most durable surface, choose a composite deck surface. Our composite is the highest quality and backed by a 25-year structural and fade warranty.

If one deck board is damaged, would I have to replace the whole system?

No. If a single deck board becomes damaged, it can be easily replaced.

How strong is the blokDEK® system? Or how much weight will it support?

Really strong. The blokDEK® system uses a structural aluminum frame, each individual blok is rated for 1,600lbs live load (10/40lbs/sqft DL/LL). So go ahead and invite the neighborhood over.

How do the deck boards hold up under extreme sun, heat, or cold weather?

Our blokDEK® Aluminum Deck Framing will see no effect from extreme weather conditions. As for the decking surface, Natural Cedar Wood, if not properly maintained, will degrade over time. For the most durable deck in all weather, we recommend our Advanced Composite decking surfaces, which are guaranteed not to fade or degrade for 25 years. For very hot climates, we recommend a lighter color.

Is aluminum framing suitable for decks in coastal areas?

Yes, aluminum deck framing is an excellent choice for decks in coastal areas due to its corrosion resistance and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Does an aluminum deck get hot?

The aluminum is in the frame/substructure of the deck, not on the top of the deck, so there is no temperature difference between a blokDEK® decking surface and a traditional deck. The temperature underfoot has everything to do with the surface and almost nothing to do with the structure. If surface temperature is a concern, choose a lighter composite color or go with our Natural Cedar Wood deck.

WARRANTY, SHIPPING, AND RETURNS

What is the warranty on the Aluminum Deck Framing?

blokDEK®'s proprietary aluminum deck framing system is backed by a limited lifetime warranty for residential applications and 10 years for commercial applications. Please review our Warranty policy in detail for limitations to the general warranty.

What is the warranty on blokDEK® composite decking panels?

Our composite decking panels are backed by a 25-year structural and fade-and-stain limited warranty for residential applications and 10 years for commercial applications. Please review our Warranty policy in detail for limitations to the general warranty.

What is the warranty on blokDEK® natural cedar wood decking panels?

Our natural cedar wood decking panels are backed by a 2-year structural limited warranty for residential applications and 1 year for commercial applications. Please review our Warranty policy in detail for limitations to the general warranty.

How long does it take to receive my blokDEK® order?

Standard products will be shipped 4-5 days after receipt of order or on the date selected at checkout. Transit times across North America vary from 2-10 business days. A tracking number will be provided to the email you provided at checkout at the time of shipment.

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Where are blokDEK® products manufactured and ship from?

blokDEK® products are proudly made in and shipped from our Canadian facility located in Edmonton, Alberta.

Are there duties or tariffs for US customers?

blokDEK® pricing for American customers includes all cross-border duties, tariffs, and brokerage charges (shipped as DDP / Delivered Duty Paid). What you pay at checkout is the total price to receive your product(s).

I'm not ready to receive the deck, can I delay the shipment date?

Yes. Just send us an email letting us know when you would like to receive your deck, and we will hold the product until then.

Can you ship it directly to my RV lot?

In most cases, yes. We just need a valid street address. You will have to be present to help the delivery team deliver to your specific site.

What freight method do you use to ship the deck?

In most cases, our deck products will ship via LTL (Less Than Truckload). LTL shipments should arrive wrapped, strapped, and in good condition. Customers should check the packing slip and condition of the package prior to signing off on it.

Will the delivery driver carry my deck to the desired location or offer any sort of "white glove" assistance?

Unless additional arrangements are made prior to your delivery, the delivery driver WILL NOT carry your order into your desired location or assemble your products. If you request additional services from the delivery company, charges for those services will be the customer's (your) responsibility.

What if the product(s) don't work for my space? Can I return it?

Yes. Returns and exchanges are accepted on blokDEK® standard products (products available for purchase through our website) in new or like-new condition within 30 days of receipt of shipment. Returns and exchanges WILL NOT BE accepted on custom-made products (non-standard deck sizes or shapes). Please review our Returns and Exchanges policy for further details.

What if the product is damaged during shipping?

We fix it. We are committed to your satisfaction and will send replacement parts at no cost to resolve the situation. If the deck is unfixable, we will send you a new one.