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Deck Support Columns

How to Install Wood Deck Support Posts

Written By: Decks Team
Published on August 04, 2004
In the past, many decks were built with 4x4 support posts (also called structural posts). But these can bow seriously, even if a deck is only 3 feet off the ground. For that reason, we strongly recommend that you use 6x6s instead, even if your building department does not demand them. And if a deck is over 10 feet tall, you should install bracing.
 
This article shows installing non-notched posts on top of concrete footings that rise above the ground, to support framing that has already been built on temporary supports. 
 
[tip] Wait for the Concrete to Cure
 
Allow at least two days for the concrete to cure before drilling holes and installing a post. If you install the post the same day as you poured the concrete, the footing could crack.
 
 
Mark the post’s corner on the footing.
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Mark the post’s corner on the footing.
1. The support post’s side should be flush with the outside of the beam or doubled header.
Draw the outline.
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Draw the outline.
Use a level to mark the post’s corners, then use a square or straightedge to mark its outline.
Heavy-duty hammer drill.
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Heavy-duty hammer drill.
You can try to drill holes in concrete with a standard 3/8-inch drill, but it will be very slow going. Save yourself time and energy by using a standard-voltage heavy-duty hammer drill like this one, which will bore down with ease.
Sleeve anchors.
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Sleeve anchors.
Use sleeve anchors of a size recommended for your post base. The packaging will tell you the size of the drill bit to use, as well as how deep to drill the holes.
Mark for the hole.
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Mark for the hole.
2. Position the post base as shown with its inside area aligned with the pencil lines.  Scribe a circle where the base’s lag screw will go.
Drill the Hole.
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Drill the Hole.
Drill a hole of the recommended size, a half inch or so deeper than the sleeve anchor. Pull out most of the dust by lifting the drill bit quickly as you drill, two or more times.
Tap the anchor in.
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Tap the anchor in.
3. Reposition the post base, aligned with the layout lines, and tap a sleeve anchor down into the hole.
Tighten the bolt.
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Tighten the bolt.
Use a crescent wrench or a socket wrench to tighten the nut, which will cause the anchor’s sleeve to expand so that it grips the concrete firmly.
Measure for post
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Measure for post
4. Install a post cap, also called a post-to-beam connector, onto the beam or doubled joist above; use a level to be sure it is plumb with the post base.
Tap in the post.
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Tap in the post.
Measure the distance between the two hardware pieces, then subtract 1/16 inch or so to account for imperfect cuts. 
Use a hand sledge to tap the 6x6 into place, check for plumb, and drive nails into all the hardware holes to secure the post.
Finish with nails.
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Finish with nails.
Use a hand sledge to tap the 6x6 into place, check for plumb, and drive nails into all the hardware holes to secure the post. With the posts in place, you can remove the temporary supports.
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Looking for a professional to build your deck?
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By clicking FIND A BUILDER, you acknowledge that you have read Trex's Privacy Policy.
Related article topics
Icon Footings Icon Decking Icon Ledger Icon Framing Icon Stairs Icon Railings Icon Features Icon Design Icon Planning Icon Porches & Patios Icon Care Icon Materials
VIEW ALL TOPICS
Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Footings

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Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing

Framing

Learn structural framing methods

Decking

Decking

Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs

Stairs

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

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Railings

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Features

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Design

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Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches and Patios

Porches & Patios

Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

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