Patent Publication Number: US-11643815-B2

Title: Modular deck apparatus

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates to free-standing deck apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to modular deck apparatus that readily assembles with one or more component frames and decking for a deck module, a deck ramp module, and a stairs module. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Often residential homes, shopping facilities, community centers such as pools and outdoor facilities, and office building complexes feature elevated deck structures. These decks provide ornamental and architectural appearances for the buildings and grounds as well as stable expanded usable space for entertaining, work, play and access to the adjacent facility and grounds. Typically, deck structures are designed and constructed with foundational supports, joists and decking secured for bearing loads imposed by persons engaged in activities on the deck. Stairs facilitate access to the elevated deck, and decks offer ornamental and structural features including multiple levels, deck board placements for designs, and built-in seating. 
     Typically, decks for home, offices and grounds are constructed according to engineering designs that account for loading, wind resistance, and stable foundational support. Alternatively, low height decks may be constructed as free-standing structures, in which the deck mass provides resistance to movement. There are a variety of components available for constructing decks including elongated boards for decking, beams for foundational support. stair risers that support in spaced-relation vertically and lateral offset treads, and railings that attach together with fasteners to support post. Stability requirements may necessitate foundational supports for low-height decks such as poured concrete footers having metal connecters to beams and molded concrete stabilizer blocks arranged in space-relation. Metal brackets, connectors, hangers, and fasteners join components of the decks together for a rigid stable structure. Deck boards may be wood or alternatively in recent years, plastic or composite material boards have become popular for longevity and weather resistance which may reduce periodic maintenance requirements. 
     Deck structures may be a desired feature for manufactured buildings such as mobile homes or offices. These manufactured buildings are typically installed above grade and supported by piers and ground anchors that connect to elongated longitudinal support beams of the manufactured building. The support beams are spaced-apart and provide a support for a floor having transverse joists and floor decking and from which the side walls extend to a roof for enclosing the building. During installation of the manufactured building at a site, a crew of installers place a foundation of a plurality of vertical piers between the ground surface and the support beams, for transferring loading from the manufactured building to the ground. The pier may seat on a rigid ground pan or connect to a footer in the ground such as for areas subject to ground freeze in winter weather. Because these buildings are installed at a height relative to the underlying ground surface, stairs or steps may be required for entrance and egress. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,634,150 discloses a foundation that provides resistance to lateral or longitudinal forces that may be exerted on the manufactured building, such as by strong winds or earthquakes. A lateral brace pivotably attaches at a lower end to the ground pan under one of the support beams and attaches at an upper end to the other of the support beams. A separate pier is installed on the ground pan contacts the support beam above the ground pan. The lateral brace enables the ground pan to resist lateral forces on the manufactured building while the pier supports the manufactured building. Similarly, the brace may be connected between the ground pan and the support beam over the ground pan, for resisting movement caused by longitudinal forces on the manufactured building. 
     The ground surface typically slopes, so the piers are of different heights for positioning the manufactured building level. The height of the doorway into building is in a range of about 1 foot to about 4 feet above the ground surface, and typically in a range of about the 2 feet to 3 feet height relative to the ground. Depending on the height of the door opening to the manufactured building, the stairs structure, or stairs with a small landing area, may be installed, for access to the building. Also, persons using mobility devices (crutches, canes, wheelchairs or scooter devices (powered or manual)) may find stairs difficult, and so buildings may be provided with ramps gently sloped to facilitate entrance and egress. Many organizations and construction guidelines provide for a 4 to 7 degree incline, preferably 1:12 or about 5 degrees incline. 
     Alternatively, an owner of the building may contract separately for construction of a deck with stairs for an area proximate the building and for a landing area for entrance into the building and egress. Often the deck is installed by a separate decking installation crew, and it may be some several days or weeks between the installation of the manufacture building, for example, and the installation of a deck and stairs. For the interim period, temporary stairs may be used, but such is not preferred. 
     Also, as noted above, component products from which decks and stairs may be constructed are typically available from home improvement stores. These components include wooden stair risers, deck boards (both wood and composite) for treads and deck surface, metal braces, hangers and fasteners, railings and posts, and blocks, support beams, and concrete for foundations and supports. Nevertheless, these deck components have the drawback of in-field custom measuring, cutting and constructing. 
     There is a need in the art for a deck, ramp, and stairs apparatus that readily assembles and installs in the field for buildings with minimal different components that do not require alterations or the use of specialized tools. It is to such that the present invention is directed. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention meets the need in the art by providing a deck module readily assembled and installed in the field to provide a deck structure for a building. The deck module comprises a deck apparatus, comprising a pair of opposing brace frames, each brace frame having two opposing vertical members connected by a transverse member. The pair of opposing brace frames connect together in spaced relation with a pair of opposing connector bases. Each connector base has an elongated member with a pair of posts extending in a first direction from respective end portions of the elongated member, the pair of posts for being received in a respective open end of the vertical members of the opposing brace frames to hold the brace frames in spaced-relation. A deck walking surface is provided by a deck board top frame having opposing end members and opposing side members attached at respective distal ends, with a plurality of projecting deck posts each extending from a respective connection of one of the end members and one of the side members, and each of the deck posts for being received in an opposing upper end of a respective one of the vertical members of the opposing brace frames. A ramp assembly for being attached at a first end proximate the deck board top frame and an opposing second end for bearing on a support surface vertically lower than the deck board top frame after attaching the first end thereto, said ramp assembly. The ramp assembly comprising: a plurality of ramp brace frames, each ramp brace frame having two opposing vertical ramp members connected by a transverse ramp member, the vertical ramp members in a first one of the plurality of ramp brace frames having a first length and the vertical ramp members in each of a subsequent one of the plurality of ramp brace frames having a respective second length, said respective second length less than the first length and said respective second length of a first one of a subsequent plurality of the ramp brace frames greater than the second length of a second one of the subsequent plurality of ramp brace frames; a plurality of ramp connector bases, each ramp connector base having an elongated base member with a pair of base posts extending at an oblique angle in a first direction from respective end portions of the elongated base member, the base posts for being received in a respective open end of a respective first vertical ramp member of a first one of the plurality of ramp brace frames and in a respective open end of a respective second vertical ramp member of a second one of the plurality of ramp brace frames to hold said first and second one of the plurality of ramp brace frames in spaced apart relation; and a ramp deck board top frame having opposing end members and opposing side members attached at respective distal ends, a plurality of projecting ramp deck posts each extending from a respective connection of one of the end members and one of the side members, each of the ramp deck posts for being received in an opposing upper end of a respective one of the vertical ramp members of said first and second ones of the plurality of ramp brace frames in spaced apart relation. A plurality of deck boards for disposing in adjacent relation between the end members of the deck board top frame and the ramp deck board top frame. 
     In another aspect, the present invention provides a deck apparatus, comprising a pair of brace frames, each brace frame having two opposing vertical members connected by a transverse member, said base frames for disposing in opposing spaced relation and a pair of connector bases at a first end and a second end to a respective one of the brace frames for holding the brace frames in spaced-relation. A deck board top frame having opposing end members and opposing side members attached at respective distal ends, and configured for receiving the respective upper ends of the vertical members of the opposing brace frames held in spaced-apart relation. A ramp assembly for being attached at a first end proximate the deck board top frame and an opposing second end for bearing on a support surface vertically lower than the deck board top frame after attaching the first end thereto. The ramp assembly comprising a plurality of ramp brace frames, each ramp brace frame having two opposing vertical ramp members connected by a transverse ramp member, the vertical ramp members in a first one of the plurality of ramp brace frames having a first length and the vertical ramp members in each of a subsequent one of the plurality of ramp brace frames having a respective second length, said respective second length less than the first length and said respective second length of a first one of a subsequent plurality of the ramp brace frames greater than the second length of a second one of the subsequent plurality of ramp brace frames. A plurality of ramp connector bases each connectable at a first end and a second end to a respective first and second one of the plurality of ramp brace frames for holding said first and second one of the plurality of ramp brace frames in spaced apart relation. A ramp deck board top frame having opposing end members and opposing side members attached at respective distal ends configured for receiving the respective upper ends of the vertical ramp members of said first and second ones of the plurality of ramp brace frames. A plurality of deck boards for disposing in adjacent relation between the end members of the deck board top frame and the ramp deck board top frame. 
     Objects, advantages and benefits of the invention may be readily ascertained upon a reading of the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a modular decking apparatus that assembles with a deck module and a stairs module for installation of a free-standing deck according to the present invention. 
         FIGS.  2 A- 2 D  illustrate a brace frame for the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views. 
         FIGS.  3 A- 3 D  illustrate a second brace frame for the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views. 
         FIGS.  4 A- 4 D  illustrate a connector base for the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views. 
         FIGS.  5 A- 5 C  illustrate a leg for selectively adjusting the height of the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, and top plan views. 
         FIGS.  6 A- 6 D  illustrate a top frame for the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views. 
         FIGS.  7 A- 7 D  illustrate a corner post for supporting a railing installed on the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views. 
         FIG.  7 E  is a detailed top plan view of  FIG.  7 B  showing features of a footer plate. 
         FIG.  7 F  is a detailed front view of an upper end portion of the corner post illustrated in  FIG.  7 A . 
         FIGS.  8 A- 8 D  illustrate a midpost for supporting ends of opposing railings installed on the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views. 
         FIG.  8 E  is a detailed top plan view of  FIG.  8 B  showing features of a footer plate. 
         FIG.  8 F  is a detailed front view of an upper end portion of the midpost illustrated in  FIG.  8 A . 
         FIGS.  9 A- 9 D  illustrate an end post for supporting a railing installed on the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top views. 
         FIG.  9 E  is a detailed top plan view of  FIG.  9 B  showing features of a footer plate. 
         FIG.  9 F  is a detailed front view of an upper end portion of the end post illustrated in  FIG.  9 A . 
         FIGS.  10 A- 10 D  illustrate a railing in perspective, front elevational, cross-sectional elevational view taken on lines  10 C- 10 C in  FIG.  10 B , and side view, for installation on the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  10 E  is a detail view of a portion of a tip rail shown in  FIG.  10 C . 
         FIGS.  11 A- 11 D  illustrates a stair riser for the stair module illustrated in  FIG.  1    in perspective, front elevational, side elevational view, and top plan view, 
         FIG.  11 E  illustrates in perspective view an alternate embodiment of a stair riser for the star module illustrated in  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  12    illustrates a stair railing for attaching to the stair riser illustrated in  FIG.  11   . 
         FIG.  13    illustrates a first adjustable leg for selectively setting a foot in contact with the ground. 
         FIG.  14    illustrates a second adjustable leg for selectively setting a foot in contact with the ground. 
         FIG.  15    illustrates a ground anchor for securing the deck module or stair module fixedly to the ground with a helix disposed below a frost line as a pier for holding the structure up and resisting uplift and movement. 
         FIG.  16    illustrates a panel closing assembly, illustrated with closing an open gap between adjacent treads of the stair riser. 
         FIG.  17    illustrates in side elevational view an embodiment of a module deck with a ramp using deck modules of the present invention modified with opposing different heights to construct a sloping ramp from a ground level to a deck level. 
         FIGS.  18 A and  18 B  illustrate a ramp connector base in perspective view and in front elevational view, respectively, for use with the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT 
     With reference to the drawings, in which like parts have like identifiers,  FIG.  1    illustrates a modular decking apparatus  20  that assembles with a deck module  22  and a stairs module  24  for installation of a deck that may be free-standing on a ground surface  25 , according to the present invention, in proximity to a building  27  with a doorway  29 . The deck module  22  has a pair of opposing brace frames  26  joined by opposing connector bases  28  and a top frame  30  to which a plurality of deck boards  32  attach. 
     The stairs module  24  has a stair riser  34  with a pair of opposing spaced-apart riser arms  36  from which supports extend for holding a pair of deck boards as treads  38 . A railing  40  orientated at an angle attaches to the riser arms  36  for lateral framing of the stairs module  34  (one railing  40  is shown). 
       FIG.  2 A  illustrates in perspective view the brace frame  26  for the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1   , while  FIGS.  2 B- 2 D  illustrate the brace frame in front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views, respectively. The brace frame  26  includes two opposing spaced-apart vertical members  50  joined by a span  52 . The vertical members  50  are elongated square tubing and open at opposing ends. The span  52  welds to the vertical members  50 . An inner face of the vertical member  50  includes a fastener guide hole  53 . A pair of receivers  54 ,  56  attach in spaced relation at opposing distal ends on an outward face of each of the vertical members  50 . The receivers  54 ,  56  are open-ended tubes and include a fastener guide hole  55 ,  57 . The receivers  54  receive a connector base  28  for an adjacent deck module  22 . The receivers  56  receive pegs or posts extending from the top frame  28  discussed below. The brace frame  26  as configured thus provides a support for one deck module or alternatively for two adjacent deck modules as discussed below. The guide holes  55 ,  57  on one vertical member are formed on a face transverse to the guide holes for the receivers on the opposing vertical member. A leg receiver  58  attaches to an inward face of the vertical member  50  and includes a fastener guide hole  59 . 
       FIG.  3 A  illustrates in perspective view an alternate embodiment  66  of the brace frame  26  for the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1   , while  FIGS.  3 B- 3 D  illustrate the brace frame  66  in front elevational, side elevational, and top views, respectively. The brace frame  66  is the same as the brace frame  26 , but does not includes the pair of receivers  54 ,  56 . A particular embodiment of a single deck module  22  uses two of the brace frames  66 ; another embodiment configured for joining adjacent deck modules uses one of the brace frames  66  and one of the brace frames  26 . 
       FIG.  4 A  illustrates the connector base  28  in perspective view for interconnecting a pair of the opposing brace frames  26  (or  66 ).  FIGS.  4 B- 4 D  illustrate the connecter base  28  in front elevational, side elevational, and top views, respectively. The connector base  28  is an elongated tube  71  having projecting legs  72  attached at respective distal ends and extending perpendicularly in a first direction. A pair of holes  74  are formed in spaced relation in a side face of the connector base  28 . The legs  72  insert into the lower open end of the vertical members  50  in opposing brace frames  26 ,  66 . Fasteners extending through aligned holes  74  maintain adjacent modules  22  square and together so the deck remains level while adjustable feet members enable adjusting the supported height of the deck by bearing on the ground  25 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  5 A- 5 C , a plurality of legs  80  may be used for disposing the deck module  22  a selected vertical distance from the ground surface  25 .  FIG.  5 A  illustrates the height adjusting leg  80  in perspective view.  FIGS.  5 B and  5 C  illustrate the leg  80  in front elevational and top plan views, respectively. The leg  80  includes an elongated vertical member  82  attached to a lateral corner portion of a plate  84  as a foot that contacts the ground surface  25 . The size of the plate may be selected depending on soil conditions; for example, a larger area plate is preferable for softer (sandy) soil while a smaller area plate may be sufficient support on a more dense (clay) soil. The vertical member  82  slides in the open end of the receiver  58  of the base fame  26 . A fastener extending through the opening  57  engages the vertical member  82  to secure the leg  80  at a selected positon relative to the base frame  26  for positioning the base frame vertically from the ground  25  but maintain the deck surface level. The plate  84  includes an opening  86 . A stake or a lag screw (not illustrated) may be inserted through the opening  86  and into the ground or for example securing into concrete, asphalt, or wood, resists movement of the leg  80  relative to the ground. 
       FIG.  6 A  illustrates a top frame  90  that provides a deck platform for the deck module  22  illustrated in  FIG.  1   .  FIGS.  6 B- 6 C  illustrate the top frame  90  in front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views, respectively. The top frame  90  includes opposing end members  92  connected at respective distal ends to opposing side members  94  with a plurality of spaced-apart transverse support members  96  attached at distal ends to the side members. A post  98  extends from each of the corner distal ends of the attached end and side members  92 ,  94 . The end members  92  include a pair of spaced-apart holes  100 . The side members  94  include a pair of spaced-apart holes  102 . In the illustrated embodiment, the side members  94  include two sets of the pairs of holes  102 . The holes  100  and  102  are spaced a pre-determined distance apart for receiving fasteners to secure adjacent deck module  22  together. As discussed below, the deck boards  32  shown in  FIG.  1    attach with fasteners to the upper surface of the top frame  90 . The posts  98  insert into the open upper ends of the brace frames  26 ,  66  for the deck module  22 . In an application having multiple deck modules  22  in adjacent relation, the posts on one side of the top frame  90  insert into the upper receivers  54  of the brace frame  26  of the adjacent deck module. 
     The opposing brace frames  26 , ( 66 ), the connector bases  28 , and the top frame  90  define a deck module box for the deck module  22 . The boxes of adjacent deck modules  22  interconnect together for rigidity and stability of the free-standing deck and to maintain the deck surface level, with fasteners that connect adjacent braces, adjacent connector bases, and adjacent portions of the respective top frames. 
     Decks above the ground surface  25  may require side railings for preventing persons from stepping off or falling off the elevated deck. The modular deck apparatus of the present invention includes an elongated railing  150  (discussed below and shown in  FIGS.  10 A- 10 E ), and one or more railings  150  may be interconnected and supported on the deck module with selected end posts  112  (discussed below and shown in  FIGS.  9 A- 9 F ) midposts  114  (discussed below and shown in  FIGS.  8 A- 8 F ), and corner posts  116  (discussed below and shown in  FIGS.  7 A- 7 F ). 
       FIGS.  7 A- 7 D  illustrate the corner post  116  for supporting a railing installed on the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1   , in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top views, respectively. The corner post  116  supports a pair of railings that extend therefrom in perpendicular planes. The corner post  116  includes a post  122  with a footer plate  124  attached at a bottom end. The footer plate  124  includes a pair of spaced-part openings  126  for receiving fasteners to secure the corner post  116  to the deck boards  32 . Two pairs of stubs  128  attach to and extend from respective transverse faces of the post  122  at upper and lower portions of the post. The first pair of stubs  128  are spaced a predetermined distance from the second pair of stubs.  FIG.  7 E  is a detailed top plan view of  FIG.  7 B  illustrating the footer plate  124  and openings  126 .  FIG.  7 F  is a detailed front view of an upper portion of the connector post  116  shown in  FIG.  7 A  illustrating a gap  129  or space between a distal end of the post  122  and the stub  128 , for accommodating a hand rail of a railing level with the distal end, as discussed below. 
       FIGS.  8 A- 8 D  illustrate the midpost  114  for supporting ends of opposing railings installed on adjacent deck modules in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views, respectively. The midpost  114  includes a post  132  with a footer plate  134  that attaches at a lower or bottom end. The footer plate  134  includes a pair of spaced-part openings  136  for receiving fasteners to secure the midpost  114  to the deck boards  32 . Two pairs of stubs  128  attach to and extend from opposing faces of the post  132  at upper and lower portions of the post. The first pair of stubs  128  are spaced the predetermined distance from the second pair of stubs. The stubs  128  in each pair extend coaxially in opposing directions.  FIG.  8 E  is a detailed top plan view of  FIG.  8 B  illustrating the footer plate  134  and openings  136 .  FIG.  8 F  is a detailed front view of an upper portion of the midpost  114  shown in  FIG.  8 A  illustrating the gap  129  between a distal end of the post  132  and the stub  128 , for accommodating a hand rail of a railing level with the distal end, as discussed below. 
       FIGS.  9 A- 9 D  illustrate the end post  112  for supporting a railing installed on the deck module illustrated in  FIG.  1   , in perspective, front elevational, side elevational, and top plan views, respectively. The end post  112  includes a post  142  with the footer plate  124  attached at a lower or bottom end. A pair of stubs  128  attach to and extend in the same direction from the post  142  at upper and lower portions of the post. The stubs  128  are spaced the predetermined distance apart.  FIG.  9 E  is a detailed top plan view of  FIG.  9 D  illustrating the footer plate  124  and openings  126 .  FIG.  9 F  is a detailed front view of an upper portion of the end post  112  shown in  FIG.  9 A  illustrating the gap  129  between a distal end of the post  142  and the stub  128 , for accommodating a hand rail of a railing level with the distal end, as discussed below. 
     The end post  112 , midpost  114  and the corner post  116  connect to and support the railing  150  illustrated in perspective view in  FIG.  10 A .  FIGS.  10 B- 10 D  illustrate in the railing  150  in front elevational view, cross-sectional elevational view taken on lines  10 C- 10 C in  FIG.  10 B , and side view, respectively.  FIG.  10 E  is a detailed cross-sectional view of  FIG.  10 C . With reference to  FIGS.  10 A and  10 B , the railing  150  includes a top rail  152  and an opposing bottom rail  154 . A plurality of spaced-apart rods  156  extend between and attach at distal ends to the rails  152 ,  154 . The rails  152 ,  154  are tubes with open opposing distal ends. An embodiment uses 1-inch square tubing for the rails. The rods  156  are 0.25 inch diameter steel rods. An alternate embodiment attaches an elongated wood member (not illustrated) as a grippable or hand-slidable hand-rail to the top rail  152 . 
       FIG.  11 A  illustrates in perspective view a stair riser  160  for the stairs module  24  as illustrated in  FIG.  1   .  FIGS.  11 B- 11 D  illustrate the stair riser  160  in front elevational, side elevational view, and top plan view, respectively. The stair riser  160  includes opposing riser arms  162  and an intermediate longitudinal support  164 . A plurality of transverse support members  166  disposed in spaced-apart relation attach to the riser arms  162  at respective distal ends and to the intermediate support  164 . The transverse support members  166  may be angle irons having an L-shape in longitudinal end view. The riser  160  provides for a plurality of steps  168 . The illustrated embodiment has five spaced-apart steps  168 . Each step  168  has three aligned tread support arms  170  that attach at first ends to the respective riser arms  162  and intermediate support  164  and extend laterally as a cantilever. The tread support arms  170  attach at an oblique angle relative to the riser arm and intermediate support. Treads  172  attach to the support arms  170 . In the illustrated embodiment, the treads  172  are elongated 1 inch by 6 inch (nominal) boards cut to length for extending between the support arms  170  on the riser arms  162 . A pair of upper railing support tubes  174  attach to the riser arms  162  at an upper end. A pair of leg receiving tubes  176  attach to a lower portion of the riser arms  162 . As in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  1   , the leg receiving tubes  176  attach proximate the second tread from the bottom of the stair riser  160 , preferably between the lowermost tread and an adjacent second tread. A pair of lower railing support tubes  178  attach on opposing sides between a distal end of the respective tread support arm  170  and the riser arm  162  adjacent leg receiving tube  174 . The lowermost tread  170  defines a landing at or proximate the ground surface. In an alternate embodiment, the lowermost tread support arms bolt to the riser arms  170 , in order that the lowermost step may be angled towards the ground surface to facilitate walking transition from ground to tread or from tread to ground. 
       FIG.  11 E  illustrates in perspective view an alternate embodiment of a stair riser  270  for the star module illustrated in  FIG.  1   . The stair riser  270  includes two outer riser arms  272  and an intermediate riser arm  273  disposed in space-apart relation. The risers  272 ,  273  comprise elongated tubes  274  with a plurality of angle iron members or plates  276  attached in L-shape stair-step order along a longitudinal length of the riser arm. The horizontal plates  276  define supports for the treads  172  while the vertical plates define back supports for a tread closing panel for the stairs. The plates  276  define spaced-apart openings  278  for receiving threaded fasteners for securing treads  172  and back panels to the horizontal and vertical plates  276 . A pair of receiver tubes  280  attach at a first end and an opposing second end of the riser arms  272 . A collar  281  attaches on an inward face of the receiver tube  280  extending towards the opposing receiver tube. A pair of railing receivers  282  attach laterally of the receiver tubes  280  at the first end and laterally of a leg receiver tube  284  at the second end of the riser arm. A threshold arm  286  extends from the second end of the riser arm. The intermediate riser arm  273  includes a support tube  288  attached to the plate  276  proximate the second end aligned transverse with the collars  281 . A pair of elongate tubes  289  insert between the collar  281  and the support tube  288 . The tubes  289  connected to the support tube  288  and the opposing collars  281  provide lateral stability for side rails that attach in the rail receives  282 . A pair of transverse supports  290  engage the opposing first and second ends of the stair riser  270 . The transverse supports  290  have an elongated transverse member  292  with three spaced-apart pegs  294 . The pegs  294  of a first transverse support  290  engage open lower ends of the respective receiver tubes  280  at the first end of the stair riser  270 . The pegs  294  of a second transverse support  290  engage the threshold arms  286  at the second end of the stair riser. Treads  172  (and back panels) seat on or against the horizontal or vertical plates  276 , and screws extend through the plates and into the treads to secure the treads to the plates. The lowermost tread attached to the threshold arms  286  defines a landing at or proximate the ground surface. The threshold arms  286  may flex, or secure with bolts, in order to angle the lowermost step towards the ground to In an alternate embodiment, the lowermost tread support arms bolt to the riser arms  170  to facilitate walking transition from ground to tread or from tread to ground. 
       FIG.  12    illustrates a stair railing  180  for attaching to the stair riser  160  illustrated in  FIG.  11   . The stair railing  180  has a hand rail  182  and a spaced-part bottom rail  184 . An upper support member  186  attaches to the ends of the hand rail  182  and bottom rail  184  with a portion extending as a leg  188  below the bottom rail. A lower support member  190  attaches to the hand rail  182  and the end of the bottom rail  184  with a leg  192  extending below the bottom rail. The hand rail  182  and the bottom rail  184  attach at an angle  194  to the upper and lower support members  186 ,  190 , for aligning with the vertical and horizontal offsets of the treads in the stairs module  24 . A plurality of spaced-apart rods  196  extend between and attach at distal ends to the hand rail  182  and the bottom rail  184 . The rods  196  are 0.25 inch diameter steel rods. For example, the rods  196  may attach to the bottom rail and insert into spaced-apart openings in a bottom surface of the handrail  182 . 
     The modular decking apparatus  20  assembles as a deck that may be free-standing on the ground  25  with one or more deck modules  22  connected together and may include at least one stairs module  24 . With reference to  FIG.  6   , the deck boards  32  attach to the upper surface of the top frame  90 . The deck boards are positioned transverse to the end members  92  and the support members  96 . A first deck board  32  is placed on the upper surface with a side edge aligned with one of the side member  94  and opposing ends aligned with the opposing end members  92 . Placement holes are drilled into the deck board in alignment with the underlying end member  92  and the support members  96 . Self-taping screws extend through the drilled holes and into the end members  92  and the support members  94  to secure the deck board  32  to the top frame and thereby defining the deck surface. Additional deck boards are placed sequentially on the top frame  92  abutted to or slightly spaced from the adjacent secured deck board  32 . For each, the installer drills placement holes that then receive fasteners and the fasteners screwed into the underlying end members  92  and the support members  94 . Preferably the deck boards  32  may be attached to the top frame  90  during manufacture at a manufacturing plant and shipped as an assembled unit for field installation. Alternatively, it is to be appreciated that field installation of elongated deck boards across multiple adjacent deck module boxes further secure the deck modules  22  together (for example, an elongated deck board that extends over and attaches to the top frames of three deck modules  22  assists in interlocking the three adjacent modules together unitarily). As noted above, the deck boards  32  may be wood, plastic, or composite material. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  2 - 6   , the deck module  22  assembles with opposing brace frames  26  ( FIG.  2   ) (or  66 ,  FIG.  3   ) interconnected with opposing connector bases  28  ( FIG.  4   ) and the top frame  90  ( FIG.  5   ) having the attached deck boards  32 , with legs  80  ( FIG.  6   ) for selectively setting the height of the deck module  22 . First, the height of the deck is determined. Typically, the walk-on surface of the deck (i.e., the top surface of the deck boards  32  attached to the top frame  90 ) is positioned slightly below the threshold of the doorway to the manufactured building; for example, no more than about 7½ inches lower than the threshold. This provides a step from the deck surface into the doorway and being below the threshold, water does not flow from the deck surface through the doorway. A measurement is made to determine a distance H between a selected deck height below the threshold and the ground. The legs  80  are then attached to one of the brace frames  66 . The legs  80  provide adjustability for vertical spacing of the deck  20 . The vertical member  82  of the leg inserts into the leg receiver  58  that will be positioned next to the building sufficiently for the extending leg and the length of the vertical member  50  to equal the height H. The leg  80  is secured in place with a self-tapping fastener extending through the guide hole  58  and into the member  82 . Another leg  80  is inserted into the opposing leg receiver  58  sufficiently so that the decking will be level or have a slight slope downwardly away from the building. 
     A second brace frame is prepared with adjustable legs  80 . If the deck is to have another deck module  22  positioned adjacent to the first, the brace frame  26  is used. The brace frame  26  includes receivers  54 ,  56  for interconnecting with the adjacent deck module. Otherwise, the brace frame  66  may be used. The legs  80  are similarly inserted and secured in the leg receivers  58  sufficiently to maintain the deck surface level. That is, a height is determined for the brace frame next to the building so that the adjustable leg  80  inserts sufficiently into the receiver  58 . The height outward of the building is similarly determined and the leg  80  inserted and secured in the opposing leg receiver  58  outwardly of the building. 
     The opposing brace frames then connect together using a pair of the connector bases  28 . The legs  72  of the bases  28  insert into the opposing lower open ends of the vertical members  50  on the opposing brace frames. The deck frame  90  with the attached deck boards sits on top with the posts  98  inserted into the open upper ends of the vertical members  50 . A stake or screw as appropriate inserts through the opening  86  of the plate  84  to secure the leg  80  to the ground (or ground surface such as concrete, asphalt or wood) and resists movement of the deck. 
     If the deck is to have an adjacent module, the brace frame  26  or  66  is prepared. The brace frame  26  is used if that module is to continue to a subsequent module; otherwise the brace frame  66  may be used. The brace frame in the prior deck module is also used for the support brace frame for the next adjacent deck module. 
     Adjacent deck modules  22  connect together with fasteners that secure the adjacent components of the deck module boxes together; i.e., fasteners secure through the aligned openings  100  in the end members  92  of end-to-end adjacent deck modules; of aligned openings  102  in the side members  94  and/or aligned openings  74  in the connector bases  28  of side-to-side adjacent deck modules; and adjacent posts  50  and spans  50  of adjacent deck modules. Also, a respective set of openings  100  or  102  may be used for attaching the stair riser  160  to an end or a side of a particular deck module  22 . 
     The stairs module  24  attaches to one of the deck modules  22 . First, the vertical spacing of the stair riser  160  is accommodated by installing a respective one of the legs  80  into the leg receiving tubes  176 . The leg  80  is secured with a fastener in a selected position based on the determination discussed above for the height of the deck. The stair riser attaches to the deck module  22  by inserting the upper railing support tubes  174  into the open end of the respective receivers  54 . It is to be noted that the brace frame  26  is used for the deck module  22  that engages the stairs module  24 , with the receivers  54 ,  56  outwardly for receiving the upper railing support tubes  174  of the stair riser  160 . With each of the end members  92  and side members  94  having the openings  100 ,  102  respectively, the stair riser  160  readily installs on either the end or the side of the deck module with bolts that extend through the respective openings ( 100  or  102 ) into the upper transverse member  166  of the stair riser  160 . The upper transverse member  166  includes openings that align the respective openings  100  or paired openings  102  in the end and side members  92 ,  94 , respectively. 
     Railings may attach to an upper surface of the deck  20  on perimeter portions for preventing persons from stepping off or falling off the elevated deck. The railings assemble with a plurality of the elongated railing  150  that interconnect with end posts  112 , midposts  114 , and corner posts  116 . One of the end posts  112  positions on the deck as a starting point for the railing. Fasteners through the openings  126  secure the end post  112  to a deck board  32 . For an adjacent corner, one of the corner posts  116  attaches to a first end of one of the railings  150  by insertion of the stubs  128  into the open ends of the top and bottom rails  152 ,  154 . The stubs  128  in the end post  112  insert into the open ends of the top and bottom rails  152 ,  154  at the opposing end of the railing  150 . The corner post  116  positions on a corner of the deck module and secures in place with fasteners though the openings  126  into the deck board  32 . The stubs  128  received in the open ends of the rails, with placement and securing of the post to the deck board, assembles the side perimeter railing without having to separately fasten the rails to the posts such as with set screws. In an alternate embodiment, the stubs  128  are open-ended tubes that extend laterally from the post as an open collar. The top and bottom rails insert into the respective collar. A fastener (such as a screw threadly inserted from a bottom portion) may secure the top and bottom rails within the collar. 
     The midpost  114  connects intermediate two railings  150  on portions of the deck having two adjacent deck modules  22 . Continuing with the example in the preceding paragraph, one of of the midposts  114  connects to an end of another railing  150 . The stubs  128  insert into the open ends of the top and bottom rails. The stubs  128  extending from the corner post  116  extend into the opposing open ends of the rails. The midpost  114  stands on the proximate deck board  32 . Fasteners extend through the openings  126  to secure the midpost  114  to the deck board. 
     The railing members are further similarly joined with the stubs  128  and the open ends of the railings  152 ,  154  in perimeter portions of the deck with the appropriate end posts  112 , midposts  114  and corner posts  116  secured to the deck boards. 
     The stairs railing  180  attaches to the stair riser  160 . The upper railing support tube  174  receives the leg  188  of the stairs railing  180  and the lower railing support tube  178  receives the leg  192 . The railing  180  may be secured with fasteners, such as self-drilling screws drilled through the support tube  174 ,  178  and into the leg  188 ,  192 , respectively. 
       FIG.  13    illustrates a first adjustable leg  200  for selectively setting a foot  202  in contact with the ground  25 . A threaded rod  204  welds vertically to the foot  202 , and receives a nut  206  attached to a lower end of an insert post  208 . The open end of the post  50  of the brace frame receives the insert post  208 . The distance between the foot  202  and the post  50  may be adjusted by rotating the nut  206  on the threaded rod  204  for selectively positioning the foot  202  on the ground  25 . 
       FIG.  14    illustrates a second adjustable leg  210  for selectively setting the foot  202  in contact with the ground. For one embodiment, the nut  206  attaches to a lower end of the post  50 . The threaded rod  204  rotatably inserts into the post  50  on rotation through the nut  206  for selectively positioning the foot  202  on the ground  25 . In a second embodiment, the nut  206  is not attached to the post  50 , but freely movable on the threaded rod  204  for bearing movement on the post  50  for selective height adjustment, for example, adjusting for post-installation settlement to keep the foot bearing on the ground  25 . The nut  206  is dimensionally larger than the cross-section of the post  50  that seats on the nut. 
       FIG.  15    illustrates a ground anchor  220  for securing the deck module  22  (or the stairs module  24 ) to the ground  25 , such as for use in geographical areas susceptible to ground freeze. The ground anchor includes an elongated shaft  222  having helical flights  224  for driving the ground anchor below grade during installation. A cap  225  that is open towards the ground  25  seats on the shaft and a nut  227  welds in place. The cap  225  includes a depending side wall  229  for bearing engagement with the ground  25 . The nut  227  receives a socket of a power driven tool for drilling the anchor  220  into the ground  25 . An opposing end of the shaft  222  is threaded  226 , which receives the nut  206  of the insert post  208 . The post  208  inserts into the vertical member  50  of the deck module  22  (or the leg receiver  176  of the stair riser  160 ). Rotation of the nut  206  on the threaded end  226  adjusts the height of the deck module or stair riser relative to the ground  25 . Attachment of the deck module or the stairs module to the ground anchor  220  secures the deck  20  in cold climates, as well as resisting movement from winds and prevents settling. The ground anchor holds the deck module or stair module up and keeps the deck module or stairs module secured to the ground. 
       FIG.  16    illustrates a panel closing assembly  230  having opposing U-channels  232  that receive a panel  234  for closing an open gap between adjacent treads of the stair riser. A first U-channel  232 U mounts to a forward portion of a first tread  32  while an opposing second U-channel  232 L mounts to a rearward portion of a second adjacent lower tread  32 . The panel  234  slides laterally into the opposing channels  232  for closing the open gap between the treads. Similar U-channels may gainfully close the open side between the deck boards and the connector base  28  of the deck modules  22 . 
     The brace frames may be provided selectively for different base heights adjustable within a range by the adjustable legs  80 . The vertical members  50  in the illustrated embodiment have lengths selected as 22.5 inches, 30 inches, and 37.5 inches, in order to provide for deck heights when using the legs  80  in ranges of between about 22.5 inches to about 30 inches, from about 32 inches to about 39.5 inches, and from about 37.5 inches to about 45 inches, respectively. These ranges accommodate a step gap between the deck board  32  and the threshold of the doorway into the building. Also, the brace frames  26 ,  66  in the different heights allows decks made with multiple modules to have a portion of a first height and a second portion of a second height. 
     With reference to  FIG.  17   , the deck assembly  20  may be configured with an elongated ramp  250  having a slope angle  252  (rise over run) suitable for movement of a wheelchair (manual or powered) or a mobility device, such as a scooter or battery-operated wheeled vehicle. Such ramp may have a rise over run at about a 4 degree angle to no more than about a 7 degree angle, based on recommendations of disability organizations and ramp specification guidelines. Preferably, the slope is 1:12 providing 1 inch of vertical rise per 12 inch length of ramp, or about a 5 degree incline. Thus, a deck height of 36 inches would preferably have a ramp length of 36 feet. In an alternate embodiment, an elongated grab rail (not illustrated) readily installs for hand-gripping/hand-sliding movement when a person walks along the ramp, as may be required. 
     The ramp  250  assembles with deck ramp modules  22   a  in which adjacent brace frames  26  (or brace frame  66  at the lower leading end of the ramp) are of different heights and interconnected by opposing connector members  254  shown in perspective view in  FIG.  18 A  and side elevational view in  FIG.  18 B . The connector member  254  is an elongate tube  256  having projecting legs  258  attached at respective distal ends and extending at an oblique angle  260  relative to the tube  256  in a first direction and parallel to the opposing leg. The oblique angle of the legs  258  define the slope angle  252  of the tube  256  while the legs  258  extend into the open upper ends of the vertical members  50  of the adjacent brace frames  26  ( 66 ), which open ends matingly receive the legs coaxially with the axis of the vertical members  50 . The adjacent brace members of the deck ramp modules  22   a  receive top frames  90   a  modified in that the posts  98  are attached to the side members  92 ,  94  at the oblique angle based on the slope angle, for similar coaxial engagement with the receivers  54  of the brace frames  26 . 
     In assembly of the ramp  250 , the brace frames are sequenced selectively with decreasing heights (i.e, by decreasing the length of the vertical members  50 , for example, or adjusting with the adjustable legs  200  (or  210 ) for progressively sloping the ramp from the deck level to a leading lower end of the ramp proximate the ground surface. As an illustrative example, a brace frame  26  at a first end of a deck ramp module  22   a  that has a run length of four (4) feet positions the deck at 36 inches; an opposing brace frame  26  (or  66 ) would be of a shorter length to position the deck at 32 inches; thus, the deck ramp slopes from the first end to the second end on a 1:12 slope. A plurality of the ramp modules interconnect in sequential adjacent relation to form the ramp of appropriate length. In an alternate embodiment, a deck module or multiple deck modules define an intermediate transition or switch-back between first and second ramp portions in the event the ground space does not accommodate a single run ramp in its full length. In such embodiment, the first portion has a downward slope in a first longitudinal direction and the second portion has a downward slope in a second longitudinal direction, for example, opposing and parallel to but spaced-apart from the first longitudinal direction or alternatively, at an angle to the first longitudinal direction such as an L-shaped ramp structure. 
     The adjustable legs  200  and  210  discussed above in reference to  FIGS.  13  and  14    gainfully facilitate ramp height positioning in the plurality of sequenced ramp modules. 
     The present disclosure of the brace frames in a range of heights, the connector braces interconnect opposing brace frames, and the top frame, which interconnect as a deck module box, for deck boards to define a decking surface, the stairs risers, with railings and posts for perimeter deck installation, and for ramp connector braces for defining a sloped ramp, provide simple and readily assembled components for the modular deck apparatus, with multiple modules securely connected together for rigidity and stability of a deck, free-standing or ground secured, for an ornamental and structural addition for buildings and grounds. The elongated tubes used for the components are open-ended and of appropriate cross-section length and width for respective members to receive engaging portions as discussed above. Generally, the structural members and posts are 1 inch×1 inch square steel tubing, 1.25 inch×1.25 inch square steel tubing, or 0.75 inch×0.75 inch square steel tubing. The feet  84 ,  124  may be 3 inch by 3 inch by 0.1875 steel plate. The stubs  128  are 0.75 inch round tubing. The deck boards  32  may be 5/4 pressure treated wood or a plastic or composite material suitable for outdoor deck applications. 
     The disclosed invention provides a deck apparatus in a first form as a deck module that assembles from a pair of opposing brace frames, each brace frame having two opposing vertical members connected by a transverse members. The opposing brace frames are held in spaced-apart relation by a pair of opposing connector bases, each connector base having an elongated member with a pair of posts extending in a first direction from respective end portions of the elongated member, the posts for being received in a respective open end of the aligned vertical members of the opposing brace frames to hold the brace frames in spaced-relation. A plurality of deck boards attached to a deck board top frame provides a walking surface for the deck assembly, which deck board top frame has opposing end members and opposing side members attached at respective distal ends, and a plurality of projecting posts each extending from a respective connection of one of the end members and one of the side members, each of the posts for being received in an opposing upper end of a respective one of the vertical members of the opposing brace frame and the plurality of deck boards disposed between the end members. In an alternate embodiment, the deck board top frame further comprises at last one transverse member connected at opposing distal ends to the opposing side members, to provide intermediate support for the deck boards. 
     In another aspect, the deck apparatus comprises a second deck module configured for attaching to the first deck module to provide a larger deck area. The second deck module connects to one of the brace frames of the first deck module in which each of the vertical members of at least one of the brace frames further comprises a lower receiver and an upper receiver attached in spaced-apart relation to a respective first side of the vertical member. The second deck module uses a third brace frame having the two opposing vertical members connected by the transverse member. A second pair of opposing connector bases interconnect the third brace frame and the at least one base frame of the first module. Each connector base of the second pair have the elongated member with the pair of posts extending in the first direction from respective end portions of the elongated member. A respective first one of the pair of posts of the second pair of opposing connector bases are received in a respective open end of the lower receiver of the vertical members of the at least one of the brace frames and a respective second of the pair of posts of the second pair of opposing connector bases are received in a respective open end of the vertical members of the third brace frame to hold the at least one of the brace frames in spaced-relation to the third brace frame. A second deck board top frame has deck boards for the second deck module, which deck boards are disposed on the opposing end members and the opposing side members that attach at respective distal ends to form the deck board top frame. The plurality of projecting posts each extend from the respective connection of one of the end members and one of the side members. The posts are received in an open upper end of a respective one of the vertical members of the at least one of the brace frames and the third brace frame. 
     In another aspect, the deck apparatus may be configured with extension legs to accommodate seating of the brace frames in firm contact with a support surface, typically a ground surface proximate a building such as a manufactured building. This is accomplished by providing each of the vertical members of at least one of the brace frames a second lower receiver attached to a respective second side of the vertical member. The second lower receiver receives a leg member of a leg device. The leg device includes a plate a plate for bearing support on a surface and a leg member such as an elongated tube, connected at a first end to the plate and an opposing second end for being received in the open lower end of a respective one of the second lower receivers. The leg member is received into the second lower receiver and positioned with the plate in contact with the ground. A fastener driven through the vertical of the base frame and into the leg member secures the leg device at a selected length. The plate may further include an opening for receiving a support connector therethrough. The support connector may be a ground anchor with a threaded end that extends through the opening and receives a nut, a stake driven through the opening into the ground, a screw driven through the opening into the ground, or other fastener to secure the plate in contact with the ground. 
     The deck apparatus may include a stairs riser assembly for being attached at a first end to the deck board top frame and an opposing second end for bearing on a support surface vertically lower than the deck board top frame after attaching the first end to the deck board top frame. The stairs riser comprises a pair of opposing riser arms, each riser arm having an upper post attached at an oblique angle at the first end. A plurality of transverse supports are disposed in spaced-apart relation and connect at opposing ends between the pair of opposing riser arms. A plurality of pairs of tread support arms attach at a first end in aligned relation to the opposed riser arms and extend outwardly as a cantilever. The pairs of tread support arms are disposed in space-apart relation to the riser arms and a tread member, such as a wood, plastic, or metal planar member or board attaches to a respective pair of aligned tread support arms. One or more leg members may further support the stair risers based on ground slope. A leg receiving member attaches to a respective one of the riser arms proximate the opposing second end of the stair risers, for receiving a leg member in the receiving member and positioned for bearing contact with a support surface. A fastener secures the leg member to the leg receiving member. 
     In another aspect, the deck apparatus uses a ramp assembly to provide a walkable ramp sloped at an angle appropriate for wheelchairs and personal walking mobility devices. The ramp assembly assembles with a plurality of ramp brace frames. Each ramp brace frame has two opposing vertical members connected by a transverse member and sequentially the ramp brace fames has differing heights. The ramp frame braces are disposed in spaced-apart relation along the rampway sequentially to define a slope line across the upper ends of the ramp brace frames. The vertical members in a first one of the plurality of ramp brace frames has a first length and the vertical members in each of the subsequent ones of the plurality of ramp brace frames have a respective second length, which said respective second length is less than the first length and said respective second length of a first one of the subsequent plurality of the ramp brace frames greater than the second length of a second one of the subsequent plurality of ramp brace frames. The ramp assembly includes a plurality of ramp connector bases for connecting adjacent ramp brace frames. Each ramp connector base has an elongated member with a pair of posts extending at an oblique angle in a first direction from respective end portions of the elongated member, The posts are received in a respective open end of a respective first vertical member of a first one of the plurality of ramp brace frames and in a respective open end of a respective second vertical member of a second one of the plurality of ramp brace frames to hold said first and second one of the plurality of ramp brace frames in spaced apart relation. In embodiments having more than two ramp brace frames, the intermediate ramp brace frames include a lower receiving tube attached to a face of the vertical member for receiving the post of the adjacent connector base for securing the spacing to the adjacent brace frame. A ramp deck board top frame has opposing end members and opposing side members which attach at respective distal ends. A plurality of projecting posts each extend from a respective connection of one of the end members and one of the side members at an oblique angle to conform to the slope of the ramp defined by the ramp brace frames. A plurality of deck boards disposed between the end members attach with fasteners to the end and side members. Each of the posts for being received in an opposing upper end of a respective one of the vertical members of said first and second ones of the plurality of ramp brace frames in spaced apart relation. 
     The foregoing has disclosed a deck apparatus readily assembled on site at a building such as a just-installed manufactured building and provides convenient access into the building with the optional stairs and/or ramp modules disclosed herein, while railings may be secured to the deck board surface to restrict persons from stepping off of the deck surface at a height above the ground, including corner posts, end posts, and midposts for supporting elongate railing assemblies. Variations and changes thereto may be made to deck apparatus and its components within the scope of the appended claims.