Soil Conditions For Deck Footings
Before you can calculate the size of your footings, you will need to know what kind of soil is present in your yard. Most soils can be classified into three categories: gravel, sand and clay.
Gravel: This type is primarily composed of small stone pebbles that you can see easily with the naked eye. Gravel feels rocky. You cannot roll this soil into a ball. Gravel will drain water very easily and can support the greatest amount of load (3000 lbs/sq ft).
Sand: Sand is composed of tiny particles that are difficult to see with the naked eye. Most sand is tan or white in color. Sand has a rough gritty texture. If you try to roll sand into a ball, it will not hold its shape. If you add water to sand, it will run through very quickly. Sand can support a load of 2000 lbs/sq ft.
Clay: You cannot see clay particles without a strong magnification. Clay feels sticky and can easily be rolled into a ball. It doesn’t drain water very easily. Clay can be many different colors depending on what other minerals it is mixed with. It is the weakest common soil type supporting a load of 1500 lbs/sq ft.
If you are unsure what soil type you will be working with, always use the worst case scenario, which is clay, to make your calculations.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
Water in deck footing holes
Find out what to do if your deck footing holes fill up with water.
Deck Footing Depth
Find out how deep you need to dig your footings in your area. Look at our U.S. map of extreme frost penetration.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Deck building tools
As with any professional job, having the right tools can make all the difference.
How to Nail a Deck Beam
Learn how to nail a beam together. How many nails should you use? What type of nails should you use?
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Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights