Deck Foundations

Decks, like all buildings, require a strong base that will keep them anchored to the ground. Deck foundations are made up of footings and concrete piers that act as supporting structures imperative to give the deck stability and a needed fundamental base.

Holes for the foundation need to be dug often with the assistance of machinery, including a power auger or posthole digger.

Footings are important to the foundation. In colder climates, the footings should be placed well below the frost line. Footings use concrete for strength.

Concrete piers can be precast and these are solidified to the footings using a cement mix.

Piers can also be made with concrete using tubes. Tubes sometimes made of hard cardboard are sold in all shapes and sizes and are great in creating an easy form in which the concrete is filled. Reinforcing bar or rebar is also placed in the tubes for added strength.

Anchor bolts are placed into the wet concrete in the pier. Anchor bolts will later connect to the deck's structural beams.

Different areas and building codes may call for different foundation requirements, so it is always wise to check with them before you begin. Size, depth and layout of the deck's piers and footings depend on the type and size of the deck as well as the geographical location.