How to Build a Portable Deck for RV

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When simply the awning does not cut it, you need to build decks for RV trailers. Building a permanent deck structure is not a viable solution for people living in a motorhome. As they are constantly traveling, they need a portable RV deck that can be packed with other things when necessary. But, how to build a portable deck for RV? Does it need professional service or you can do it with a little carpentry skill?

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Portable Decks for RVs – Why Do You Need It?

When you are living in a travel trailer, a mobile decking is not just something for convenience or aesthetic, it is a practical necessity.

Most RVers are happy with an awning and a seating arrangement under it. But, what will you do in the rainy season when the ground is wet or the grass is muddy? Thinking of living in Charleston in South Carolina. Plenty of areas in that region gets water-trapped after a good amount of rain.

Also, you will need a deck if there are large trees with roots coming out of the surface on the campsites. It is inconvenient to sit or walk under the awning if the surface is uneven.

In the next section, we will discuss how to build a portable deck for RV so that you don’t have to face these problems when camping.

portable decks for rvs — Setting the square blocks.

Some people just lay out a mat on the ground to spend outdoor time and consider it good enough. But, if you are not one of them, you need to learn to build portable decks for RVs.

Low-profile decks are the best option for the convenience of transportation. Some RVers like to elevate it a couple of feet from the grounds. It depends on personal preferences. Follow these steps to learn how to build a portable deck for RV:

1. Join boards.

You can either purchase 2 x 4 boards (4-foot long) or cut them in that size with a circular saw. What kind of boards will be the right option? As you are building a portable decking for RV, plywood panels for the decking and PVC pipes and panels for the posts and sides (if you decide to add these features) could be the most practical choices. As these are lighter than woods, hauling them inside the motorhome will be easier.

If you really want to use wood, use wooden pallets instead. They are inexpensive and you can bolt and nail them easily. Cover the surface with plywood or carpet, or just paint the pallets with a nice color.

If you decide to go with the 2 by 4 boards, form an ‘L’ by joining two boards together at their narrow edges. Use a drill machine to drive galvanized through the edge of one board to the other. Put two screws at the two ends to make the joining stronger.

2. Form square blocks.

Join two ‘L’ shapes together to form a square block. Now, take a 4 x 4 PVC board and glue or screw it to one side of the block. Make as many blocks as you need.

3. Assemble the deck.

The last part is to put the blocks side by side across the length of your deck area. As they are separate blocks placed together, you need to find a way to make them stick with each other. Gluing can be an option, but it does not go well with the concept of a transportable deck. Joining the blocks together means you make the entire deck a single piece. An RV does not have that much of room to store an entire deck.

What can you do?

Well, there is a simple solution. Purchase a rubber mat or a carpet similar size or slightly bigger than the deck. After assembling the blocks together, lay the mat or carpet over them. Use tack pins or galvanizing screws (which may seem suitable) to attach them together. When you are moving, you just need to take out the screws, roll the carpet or mat, and store it with the square boxes.

portable decking for rv — Adding stairs and railings will make it look like a real deck.

You may also like: How To Convert From Manual To Electric Awning?

Some Tips for How to Build a Portable Deck for RV

You should have proper portable RV deck plans to execute the DIY task. Especially, do have a clear idea about the measurements. Fix the dimensions of the deck and then calculate how many and which size of boards you need.

Some other tips that you can exploit are:

Always use safety gloves and goggles when you are cutting the boards or using the drill machine.
You can get free wood pellets if you just ask around a bit. Go to the local shops, facilities, or pallet recycling center.
When assembling the square blocks, place them in alternating patterns if you want to create a parquet style.

Last Updated on January 12, 2019