BuildTuff Australia
The TuffBlock is an ultra durable instant foundation system for decks, sheds, platforms, raised walkways & more
TuffBlocks are a game-changer for anyone looking to build a deck without impacting surrounding vegetation. Whether you’re working around trees or other plants, TuffBlocks offer an easy, no-dig solution for your outdoor projects.
Thanks to Michael Z for sending in these photos!
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Adam just released an incredible video on his YouTube channel 'Haxman' where he shows you how to build a 16x16ft floating ground deck using TuffBlock deck blocks.
He takes you through all the steps to build your own deck, including a number of great building tips along the way!
Make sure to go check it out here:
https://buff.ly/3ywU9g3
Or find the link in our bio.
Contractors Hate Me For Showing You This! I built a backyard oasis with a floating deck, smokeless fire pit, and string lights. I'll show you the easiest and fastest way to build a DIY deck plus the ...
Weightlifting at the Olympics kicks off today in Paris, with the lightweights up first.
But none of them compare to our own champion...weighing in at only 680g and capable of holding 770 kgs, TuffBlock is the undisputed world champion of deck blocks!
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A bit of mid-week inspiration for you! Check out this stunning but simple backyard deck design nestled in the corner of a lush lawn, surrounded by pavers and a beautiful garden bed. Perfect for summer evenings and weekend gatherings!
This is probably our most frequently asked question...how do you combat uplift in the event of high winds/hurricanes?
The answer is earth anchors! They're cheap and simple to install.
This is a quick demonstration from the 'Square Shed' team that use duckbill earth anchors on their sheds.
Once you pull on the sinew, it locks the anchor into place and then once it's fastened to the subframe it ties to whole project down.
If you're building over concrete then you can dynabolt the TuffBlocks to the ground.
Floating decks don't always require a tie down method as the weight of the structure is typically as much as a small car, but it can't hurt to have peace of mind.
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If you're a solo DIYer then this tip could be a game changer.
Beau from Square Shed uses these levelling tools called 'Labor Saving Arm Jacks'.
They're a quick and easy way to level your outer frame and check it's 100% accurate before fastening in your posts.
Even if you build in a team, it's great not to need an extra set of hands to do this type of job.
A floating deck is a great way to extend the usable area of your shed by building a floating deck landing.
A big thanks to Melony for sending in these progress pictures, and for the kind words about TuffBlock:
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
"Tuff blocks were very easy to use and I’d highly recommend them for your project."
We have over 300 incredible reviews from our amazing customers. Thank you to everyone who's submitted theirs, and for showing us your great handy work.
See why Kamran made the switch from concrete to TuffBlock!
It allowed him to build this entire deck in a weekend without the need for digging holes, using cement of lugging around heavy concrete deck blocks.
It's also a great example of using TuffBlock on sloped ground with notched 4x4 posts.
The deck is perfectly level, and makes great use of what was an un-used area of his home.
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This is a perfect example of a sturdy, well constructed subframe that has:
1) A bridged overhang with fascia boards to create a seamless finish
2) Notched 4x4 posts to bear the weight (rather than fasteners).
Great work Peter, and thanks for sending in the photos! We hope you enjoy your deck this summer.
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Beau showed us an alternative method for prepping ground, but without removing the soil.
For his shed builds, he rakes the dead grass, tamps it down heavily, before then laying down crushed rock and levelling the TuffBlock.
This might be something to consider if you don't want to remove the grass from under the block, but still create a firm levelled surface.
This is what the DIY spirit is all about. Thanks Kristine for the kind words:
"Worked great! 69 and 72 yr old sisters built an 8x8 platform for an inflatable spa in a day! Added the deck boards next day. Planning to build another platform for a storage shed."
We hope you and your sister enjoy the spa. Best of luck with that shed build!
Another great project and another 5 star review for TuffBlock!
Great work Taylor on a wonderful deck. We hope you get great use from it.
Great progress Dom! Your subframe looks like it's coming together nicely.
Take note of the notched 90mm posts. That means the load bearing weight is going to be held up by the post and TuffBlock, rather than just the fasteners. So it's something we definitely recommend for a long lasting deck!
Build On.
Got a corner in your yard you're not using? This deck design could be exactly what your yard needs.
Best part? You can do it yourself in a single weekend. Check out this video from TwoFeetFirst who built a tutorial for a similar build using TuffBlock:
https://youtu.be/UOQPIUxFq6g?si=q4Cr6kOC5vz2pFbI
One of the cooler projects we're seen using our TuffBlocks! Here's what Christopher had to say about his build:
"With little construction experience, I was able to manage building a 32'x32' deck in a matter of days (and some help from a kind neighbor). It made leveling much easier and the proper placement was easy to adjust as the build continued. Much more manageable than concrete blocks."
You'll notice this subframe layout has a higher concentration of blocks in center portion. If you're planning to place a hot tub on top of your deck then this can provide re-assurance directly under the portion of the frame where the tub will sit.
However, it's not a necessity as TuffBlock's load rating of 770 kg per block ensures it's more than equipped to handle the load of a hot tub...but it can't hurt to have a few more for re-assurance!
We encourage each builder to use their best judgement as hot tubs can vary greatly in size and weight.
Thanks to 'Long Islander DIYer' for the photos.
We've seen a huge surge in shed projects used with TuffBlock, and this is another great one. Thanks Neia for sending these in and for leaving us such a great review!
"We used TuffBlocks as the base for two platforms that we've built our huge sheds on. Much easier than a bunch of heavy cement blocks (built by a couple of ladies)! So far they're holding up great.
12'x16' platform with a 12' high shed and an 8'x24' platform with an 16'x16' outbuilding and connected 8'x8' covered deck.
We found out about TuffBlocks from a Matt Risinger shed build on YouTube."
Thanks Megan for sending these photos through! This is a great example of a deck that's on variable height ground, and you've done a really good job of using posts to create a firm and level surface throughout.
Plus you've created the extra outer joist which is always great for hiding the TuffBlocks and having a clean finish.
All around...nice job!
Thanks Jess for sending in these great photos of your subframe...and for the awesome review!
"Super easy to use. Great customer service and fast shipping. Would absolutely use this product again!!"
Great job on the privacy fence. It adds a cozy, private touch that really makes your backyard feel like a little hideaway. Can't wait to see how it turns out when you're done!
Build On.
This Monday, we're showcasing a deck that's all about family fun. Whether you're mastering the grill, tossing pizzas, or just relaxing and waiting for the feast, this deck's for you!
Build On.
Thanks Wyatt for sending in your subframe layout! All that's left is to lay down the boards.
For anyone wanting to hide their TuffBlocks under the deck, check out the outer joist connected via bridging. If you want to go one step further, you can add a couple of TuffBlocks underneath the bridged joists and still hide them under the deck.
Build On.
We got asked if you can use 2 joists inside one TuffBlock to extend your joist's span...and the answer is yes. But with any butt joint you'll want to fasten the two joists together with screws at 45 degree angles going both directions, or with a lumber connector plate.
So if you're building a super long deck but can't get your hands on the right joist length then this could be great option!
Build On.
Your Monday deck-spiration is here!
Building a deck around trees? Using TuffBlocks means no deep holes or concrete, protecting those precious tree roots. If your next project involves decking around trees, TuffBlock could be your tree-friendly solution.
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If you're looking to build a shed, outdoor office, cubby house or even a gym...then this is a video you're not going to want to miss!
Chris from 'Hume DIY' has created a full step by step tutorial on the BuildTuff YouTube channel showing you how to create a mini outdoor office using TuffBlock deck blocks.
In this video you'll learn how to:
✅ Level your outer frame
✅ Lay aggregate
✅ Use notched posts to adjust for sloping ground
✅ Use two load bearing end joists with joist hangers
✅ Install insulation in the floor
✅ Use earth anchors to tie your project down
This is a 2 part series, with part 02 on Chris' channel 'Hume DIY'.
See part 01 below (or click the link in our bio):
https://buff.ly/3ywDfha
For more great content from Chris, visit his YouTube channel where he makes tons of great DIY content:
https://buff.ly/3ytKPsS
Happy Australian Made Week!
BuildTuff proudly designs and manufactures its products right here in Brisbane, Australia. Join us in celebrating all Australian Made products throughout the country!
Build On.
Shout out to Donald T (not the one you're thinking of) for sending over this great photo of your deck subframe! You’ve got the aggregate and w**d barrier spot on. Look like it'll make for a very sturdy deck. Nice work!
Welcome to your weekly deck-spiration! Check out this amazing multi-tiered patio deck that extends right into the yard. Ever thought about mixing and matching several decks at different levels to design a one-of-a-kind outdoor space? Let your imagination run wild!
Build On.
Thanks to Robert C for sending in progress photos of his low profile ground deck.
From demo, ground prep, laying out the subframe and then installing the deck boards, you've done an awesome job. It sounded like quite the journey:
"Tree removal and tear out of pavers began in the Summer of 2023 after of which I began the removal of numerous invasive roots from a nearby oak tree. Once the area was cleared, I removed about 20 yards of soil, rebuilt the 2 sump pump basins and brought in 3 tons of crushed limestone.
Construction of the deck began late Dec 2023. Work was put off several times due the weather, injury, re-orders and other commitments. Because we were limited to 2x4 joists, I ended up purchasing 6 boxes of TuffBlock to insure proper spacing and load distribution. All wood was pressure treated (ground contact). Butyl Deck Tape was applied to all joist before decking went down.
It was a lot of work but I am happy it’s done! The deck will get stained in 3 months."
Carlos is halfway through his deck build and he's done a great job at levelling his outer joists on his sloping yard. He's in the process of measuring the remaining posts, cutting them to length and then inserting them under his cross joists.
We have a full video tutorial showing you how to build a deck like this on YouTube. It's now been viewed a whopping 595,000 times! Most yards aren't perfectly flat, and so it's a great resource for building a deck whether it's a slight slope or a steep slope. Check it out here:
https://buff.ly/3w9nFat
Alternatively search the video title 'How To Build A Floating Deck - Start To Finish (On A Sloping Yard) Using TuffBlock Deck Blocks'
Happy Monday! Got a cozy little yard? Here's a deck idea that might just be your perfect match.
Remember, it's not just about the deck—think garden borders, neat hedges, a privacy fence, and some twinkling outdoor lights to truly transform your space.
This is a DIY project anyone can tackle. Ready to start building your outdoor haven?
TuffBlock - The World’s Easiest Foundation System for Decks
Deck blocks were introduced over 30 years ago in the USA and since then instant foundation blocks have been embraced worldwide for creating strong and stable foundations for both professional and DIY projects.
TuffBlocks are Australian Made for Australia and New Zealand and are Made in America for the USA and Canada. They are an ultra-lightweight concrete alternative, with each block weighing 680 grams and supporting up to 770 kilograms. They are 28 times lighter than standard concrete.
TuffBlocks are an extremely popular alternative to digging holes, mixing concrete and waiting for it to set.
TuffBlock is more than just a deck foundation, they are a versatile utility block and the options are endless for how you can use them to make completing your projects a breeze. TuffBlocks are a popular multi-purpose foundation for a range of home improvement projects including decks, garden sheds, landings, pathways, raised walkways, cubby houses, dog shelters and more.
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