Ground level decks less than 12" above grade are generally easy to build because they don't involve climbing on ladders and usually don't involve installing guard rails and stairs. They are also easier to blend into the landscape, but there are some unique issues you need to address before you get started.

The first issue is clearance. If your door is very low to the ground you may not have enough room to install deck framing and decking without excavating. Digging a few extra inches of soil and grass away will allow you the room you need to build your frame. Building a low profile frame is necessary. You will need to use a flush beam which is set at the same level as the joists as opposed to a cantilever beam. If the bottom of your deck frame is less than 6" above the ground or partially buried you should use pressure treated wood that is rated for ground contact. The higher level of preservative will prevent the wood from rotting and decaying better than standard pressure treated wood.

It is best to leave space for a few inches of air flow under the deck frame for ventilation and water drainage. Ground level decks may breed mold without proper ventilation. Some builders even install vents along the rim joists of ground level decks to improve cross ventilation. It is also a good idea to space your decking to allow the underside of the deck to breathe. Some deck builders install a layer of gravel beneath the deck to help drain water away. Don't use tongue and groove decking products for ground level decks. Some composite decking materials may not be recommended for decks less than 24" high.

If you are attaching the deck to your house you will need to install footings below the frost line to anchor the deck and prevent the deck from moving as a result of frost heave. Free standing decks may use floating pier blocks which allow the deck to move along with the ground. Some builders build ground level decks directly on top of existing concrete patios using sleepers.