How to Use Concrete Footings for Deck Posts
Concrete is, in fact, the most used material for construction in the world and has been in use since the age of the Roman Empire. Concrete is a mixture of aggregate (sand and gravel) combined with water and cement. Depending on the ratio of these parts, the concrete can be stronger or weaker. Concrete hardens in a process known as hydration, which is caused by the reaction between water and cement. Adding too much water can weaken the concrete.
For most deck projects, it is practical to buy bags of premixed concrete that are prepared by adding water and mixing. You can use a wheelbarrow and mix with a hoe to a consistency that is able to move and fill voids, but is not too wet and soupy. Hoes work better for mixing concrete than shovels. Renting a mixer can reduce your labor time by half. Be sure to follow the instructions listed on the packaging. It is possible to make your own concrete mix by combining 3 parts gravel, 2 parts sand and 1 part cement, but this requires more knowledge and skill than using premixed bags. Your footing should be at least as thick as it is wide at its base. The ideal temperature for pouring concrete is between 50-90 degrees F.
Make sure you use 5,000 psi concrete mix. Once you have poured half of the concrete into the tube, you should consolidate it with a shovel or a piece of rebar to eliminate air pocket voids. Pour concrete until it is overflowing the form tube and level off the top with a shovel.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
Soil Conditions
Learn how soil conditions can affect the size of your deck footings. Do you have gravel, sand or clay soil?
Monolithic Pier
Compare the pros and cons of installing a solid concrete deck footing using a cardboard tube or engineered forms.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Building a Balcony Deck
Learn information about balcony decks that use cantilevered joists that attach to house floor truss systems.
How to Brace a Swaying Deck
Learn how to install a diagonal brace on your deck frame to prevent racking. Check out our detailed image.
More Helpful Resources
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
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.
How to Install & Build Deck Footings
Learn how to install concrete footings to properly support your deck. Watch our step-by-step foundations video.
Monolithic Pier
Compare the pros and cons of installing a solid concrete deck footing using a cardboard tube or engineered forms.
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.
Building a Balcony Deck
Learn information about balcony decks that use cantilevered joists that attach to house floor truss systems.
How to Install Concrete Support Deck Posts & Columns
Learn how to install concrete deck piers to support your deck frame. Use cardboard form tubes to extend your footings above grade.
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