Water In Deck Footing Holes
If you have a high water table or it has just rained, you may find that your footing holes have flooded with water. This is not usually a problem. Water can be bailed or pumped out, and the soil at the base of the hole can be compacted. The concrete you pour into the hole will displace the water, this is called wet-placing concrete. Big Foot form tubes can also be installed to keep the water out of your concrete pour. The bell shape of the footing form will help keep the footing in place and prevent it from floating up to the surface. Once the footing is poured, you may want to backfill some gravel around the footing to promote drainage. Concrete poured in wet conditions will actually have more strength. The slower the concrete cures, the stronger it will set.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
Can I use pier blocks?
Our inspector explains the pros and cons of using pier blocks for deck foundations.
Can I reuse existing footings
Our inspector discusses the topic of reusing footings for a new deck.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Framing a Deck Parallel to a House
Learn about an alternative framing method that allows you to install your decking perpendicular to the house and makes the deck free standing.
How to Size a Deck Beam
Learn about how to choose the correct size beam for your deck. We discuss engineered beams and "sandwiched" style beams.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
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Learn structural framing methods

Decking
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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
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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
How many footings do I need?
Learn how to determine the number of footings and support posts you need for your deck when designing your deck frame.
Prevent Deck Sinking
Sinking deck footings can lead to serious problems. Learn what can cause concrete footings to sink. Properly installed footings will resist sinking.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
Why is Joist Protection so Important for Your Deck?
If you’ve ever seen a piece of wood left out in the weather for any period of time, you know what happens: decay. Whether through wet rot, insect damage, or mildew, the fibers begin to break down.
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?
How to Sister Deck Joists
Learn about how to sister deck joists over a beam for framing a large deck or adding onto an existing deck.
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