Decks5 March 2023by dimitar0

How to Build A Deck Foundation

How to Build A Deck Foundation

What you need to know

OVERVIEW

Building a deck foundation is a crucial step in the construction process of a deck. A proper foundation is essential to ensure the stability, safety, and longevity of your deck. While it may seem like a daunting task, building a deck foundation is relatively simple and can be done by a homeowner with some basic tools and knowledge. In this blog post, we will be discussing the various types of deck foundations, the materials and tools required, and the steps involved in building a deck foundation.

image of deck footings being prepared for installation

Inform Yourself

Learn about deck foundations

First, it is important to understand the different types of deck foundations. The most common types of deck foundations include concrete footings, precast concrete piers, and helical piers. Concrete footings are the most commonly used type of foundation and are typically used for decks that are attached to a house. Precast concrete piers are similar to concrete footings but are pre-formed and can be set into the ground quickly. Helical piers are another popular option and are typically used for decks that are being built on a slope or in an area with unstable soil.

Pick the Right Tools & Materials

These vary from context to context

The materials and tools required to build a deck foundation will vary depending on the type of foundation you choose. For concrete footings, you will need concrete mix, form tubes, and a post hole digger. For precast concrete piers, you will need precast concrete piers and a sledgehammer. Helical piers require special equipment such as a torque motor and a hollow steel shaft.

Image of solid deck footings installed

Pro Tip: Hire Deck Foundation Building Experts

Hire a company of experienced contractors with the most advanced equipment on the market.

If you engage a professional company like Post2Fence for building your deck foundations, you can have confidence that the task will be completed with precision and speed. Our crew will consider all the critical elements, including regional construction regulations, soil composition, and any subterranean utility lines. This guarantees that the foundation holes will be excavated at the appropriate depth and angle to provide optimal stability.

Contact us for a free estimate and trust Post2Fence to handle your deck foundation building needs:
Image of a deck footing project in progress
Placeholder image
Image of a Deck installed by Post2Fence
Image of a Deck installed by Post2Fence

Deck Foundation Building Process

Site Preparation
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials and tools, it is time to begin building your deck foundation. The first step is to prepare the site. This includes removing any debris, leveling the ground, and marking the location of the footings or piers.
Concrete Footings - Dig Footing Holes
For concrete footings, the next step is to dig the holes for the footings. The hole should be at least 12 inches deep and twice the width of the form tube. Once the holes are dug, the form tubes are placed in the holes and the concrete mix is poured into the tubes. The concrete should be leveled and smoothed and then left to cure for at least 24 hours.
Concrete Footings - Place Piers
For precast concrete piers, the piers are placed in the holes and then leveled and tamped into place. The piers should be set at least 12 inches below the frost line and should be level with each other.
Helical Footings - Drill & Position
For helical piers, the holes are drilled into the ground using a torque motor and a hollow steel shaft. The piers are then screwed into the ground until they reach a suitable depth and level of resistance. This type of foundation is particularly useful for decks built on a slope or in an area with unstable soil, as it provides a stable support system that can withstand movement and shifting of the soil.
Install Deck Posts
Once the foundation is in place, it's time to install the deck posts. The posts should be level and plumb, and they should be anchored to the foundation using post anchors or post brackets. The posts should be spaced at regular intervals, usually no more than 8 feet apart, and they should be cut to the appropriate height.
Beams, Joists & Decking
Finally, the beams and joists can be installed, and the decking can be added. This process will vary depending on the type of decking you choose, but it generally involves securing the decking boards to the joists using decking screws or nails.

CONCLUSION

Building a deck foundation is an important step in the construction of a deck. A proper foundation will ensure the stability, safety, and longevity of your deck. There are various types of deck foundations to choose from, including concrete footings, precast concrete piers, and helical piers. The materials and tools required will vary depending on the type of foundation you choose, but the process of building a deck foundation is relatively simple and can be done by a homeowner with some basic tools and knowledge. Remember to follow all local building codes and to consult with a professional if you are unsure about any aspect of the process.

Images of deck footings installed by Post2Fence

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