How deep do footings need to be for a deck?

By code, the bottom of a footing must be at least 12 inches deep and below the local frostline—whichever is deeper—and bear on stable, undisturbed soil that is free of organic matter. And the code requires a minimum compressive strength of 2,500 psi for the concrete.

What is code for deck footing?

Footings need to be at least 12 inches below settled soil to prevent lateral movement. In addition, they need to be dug below the frost line, which varies according to climactic zone.

Are footings required for decks?

A deck needs to be supported by a footing, and the size of the footing is regulated by the local council based on the type of soil in your area. After setting out the shape of the deck, you’ll need to mark the position of the footings on the soil, then excavate the area, digging holes for the footing.

What do you put under deck blocks?

You can put gravel, sand, or limestone screening under a deck block. Deck blocks can also be set on poured concrete columns dug to below the frost level. You should not install deck blocks on wood, organic material (Grass) or loam (dark soil).

How many footing do you need for your deck?

For an attached 12 x 12′ deck, you’ll need at least 3 footings, plus at least 2 more if you’re planning on building stairs with it. If your deck will be a different size, it’s easy to figure out how many you’ll need. Just decide its size and shape, then calculate and measure each element of the design as detailed step-by-step below.

How deep do my footings need to be for a deck?

When solid ground is reached, it is recommended to dig an additional 50mm into the solid ground. Regardless of reaching solid ground before a minimum depth of 600mm, the deck footing should be at 600mm deep (always dig bigger, never smaller). If your engineer has specified a minimum depth, you need to dig to that depth.

What size footings are required for decks?

Sizing Deck Footings Assuming a minimum soil bearing capacity of 1,500 psf, 8-inch-diameter concrete piers bearing on square footings measuring 2 feet on a side and 9 to 11 inches thick are adequate for most single-story decks where beams are spaced 14 feet apart or less and joist spans are 14 feet or less (see table below).

Do deck footings need to be spaced evenly?

If you’re building a simple deck, footings and posts should be placed less than 8 feet apart. However, if your deck will include a hot tub or roof, you must support that weight with additional footings.

How deep do footings need to be for a deck? By code, the bottom of a footing must be at least 12 inches deep and below the local frostline—whichever is deeper—and bear on stable, undisturbed soil that is free of organic matter. And the code requires a minimum compressive strength of 2,500 psi for the…