To start, you will need to dig below the frost line so you will have space to pour the concrete footing. Pros of Precast Stackable Cement FootingsĬons of Precast Stackable Cement Footingsīuried post footings are a lot like the poured concrete ones, but they’ll save you some labor. Once you stack each piece on top of one another, you’ll be left with a permanent structure that will keep you and your family safe. You’ll still need to dig a deep enough hole and drop the heavy pieces into place. You don’t have to worry about mixing the concrete, achieving the right consistency, or pouring it into a hole. However, they do not require any pouring on your part. Precast stackable cement footings are similar to the previous method. They are also perfect for supporting the weight of a hot tub or other large items. They are ideal for large decks that are high off the ground.

You can attach your deck’s posts to the top of each pillar using metal brackets.ĭuring the pouring process, you can either pour the concrete in on its own or use a cardboard form to help guide what you’re doing.Įven though they take a lot of work to build, concrete footings are some of the strongest materials available. Once you’ve dug a hole of the appropriate depth, you will pour concrete into it. In some northern states, the frost line can be as deep as 70 inches. The DIY Network notes that the frost line in most areas is usually between 36 and 48 inches. The first step involves digging a deep enough hole below the frost line. Poured concrete footings can be very labor-intensive depending on where you live. This footing material involves digging a hole and pouring concrete directly into the ground. Will not be effective in areas with high winds.Be sure to check your area’s regulations before you spend the time and money on the installation process. However, they’re not the strongest or most durable, and they may not meet building codes in certain cities. Precast cement blocks are an affordable option if you have a deck that is close to the ground and not attached to your house. Every block has a convenient notch that you can fit ground-treated lumber into. The blocks should be placed close together, so you may end up needing quite a few blocks even for a small deck. Precast cement blocks are probably the cheapest and easiest footings to install.Įach block is buried right beneath the ground’s surface. Let’s go over a few different techniques and materials you can use. Each one serves different purposes and falls into different budgets. There are various methods and materials to use when building your deck footing. What Are the Different Types of Deck Footings? If you neglect to add the proper footing, you could face trouble with your local government-or your deck could even collapse. Footing prevents your deck from rotting away by keeping it high and dry above land.ĭeck footings are also required by certain legal codes and regulations, depending on your city. Why Is Deck Footing Important?Ī deck footing will ensure that your deck doesn’t tip or cave in after installation. If you have a large surface that’s going to be supporting a lot of people and furniture, you will need to build a footing. Only very small decks that are close to the ground can go without this kind of support. They are how your deck connects with the ground, so they’re key to having a firm, secure deck. Deck Foundations: What Is Deck Footing?ĭeck footing is a structure that serves as a sturdy foundation for your deck. Not sure where to start? We’re here to help you make the right choice so you and your family can have a safe outdoor deck for years to come.

For example, is your deck going to be attached to your house, or is it going to be a standalone structure? What are the building codes in your area? How tall and wide is your structure going to be? All these details will help you decide on the right type of deck footing to install. The type you pick will depend on your answers to a few questions. There are several different types of deck footings to choose from, each suited for different uses. But one of the most important technical considerations that some people overlook is the type of deck footing you need to install. When you’re planning to build a deck for your home, you need to consider several factors before you begin any work-like what kind of wood to use, where it should be placed, and who’s going to construct it.

Concrete deck piers