Options for Deck Foundations

Want to learn about a fast and easy way to install deck foundations?

You all know how much work and effort and money it takes to install traditional concrete deck foundations - or deck footings. Not to mention time waiting for concrete to cure. It's sthe hardest part of deck building.

In some cases, given the height of a deck, you have connect it to the ledger of the home. And I am afraid that means you must install proper concrete footing foundations that go below frost line so the deck doesn't move independently in relation to the home.

Most Decks Can Be "Free Standing" or "Floating"

Did you know this?

If your deck is 6 feet or less, with proper post to beam and joist bracking your deck is a perfect candidate for a floating deck.

This means you you have some options for your deck foundation that can save you money, time and effort.

Here are your deck footing options:

Surface Deck Blocks

EngineeredHelical Piers

Ground Spikes

Something even Better!

 

Deck Blocks

The cheapest deck foundation is a concrete deck block that just sits on the ground. Usually less than $10 a piece.

You have to buy a lot of them to make sure that you spread the weight of your deck out over enough soil surface area that they don't sink due to the weight.

But if you are in a high wind zone - and much of the US is - you have to also install ground anchors with tie-down cables over the deck framing to make sure it won't achieve "Lift-Off" in a worst case scenario.

But they only hold 4x4 posts, not 6x6s and they have no lateral strength at base of the post. And if you drop set the framing into the groove the underside of the joist is still 5-6" above grade. You may want a lower set deck.

But these are the cheapest deck foundations solutions anywhere.

Engineered Helical Piers

Been around for a long time. Proven technology.

But usually require heavy machinery to install and are most common for foundation repair to homes and all of this requires close review by engineers and of course the cost reflects this as it is a top notch high end solution.

Usually way too expensive for a light weight deck structure.

Ground Anchored Spikes

You have seen ground spikes used for fence posts.

Some of them can use modified load plates and are less expensive than an egineered helical pier and provide more lateral strength than surface block deck block footing.

But the installation method is either brute strength with a sledge hammer or use a jack hammer.

A lot of home owners aren't interested in learning how to use or take time to rent a jack hammer.

Plus if the spike goes in crooked or you have to back it out to re-angle or re-install it is really tough to do without special pulleys and tools.

Despite these issues, they are an affordable option.

Titan Deck Foot - The Best of Both Worlds

If concrete deck blocks are too weak, or you have wind zone concerns, or you're using 6x6 posts, or you want to get the deck framing within 2-3" above grade the Titan Deck Foot may be the foundation solution you've been looking for.

Let me explain...

The Titan Deck Foot is a helical anchor with a cap plate to spread weight over 1 square foot. But it can take both 4x4 and 6x6 post brackets.

But most important for the average guy is it installs in minutes with practically no effort using a common, light weight hand held impact wrench.

Even better - it can go in or out easily which is great if you hit an obstacle or you went in crooked.

The only thing you have to sure of - as with any deck foundation - is the bearing capacity of the soil. The softer the soil, the more footings you need to safely spread out the weight.

Let's Let The Titan Deck Foot Speak For Itself

 

 

So there you have it. A lot of options for your deck foundations. From the very cheapest to the most expensive to the everything in between. Only you will know what is right for your exact situation.

The Titan Deck Foot is available here.

---

Back to top of Deck Foundations

Take advantage of our Scratch and Dent sale for 33% savings on post anchors! View Store

Deck Devil Board Straightening Tool Is Now Available! Learn more here.

Check out our new Deck INSIDER Newsletter! Click here to find out more and sign up.