Building Deck Footings | QUIKRETE: Cement and Concrete Products
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A great way to view and understand your building or repair project before you get started. Find out just about everything you need to know by watching the video below.

Building Deck Footings

Successfully construct a solid concrete footing for your deck  or other permanent structures.


Project Instructions

When working with cement-based products, always wear eye protection and waterproof gloves.

Step 1
Ensure a solid footing. Decks and other permanent structures require deck supports and footings made from structural strength concrete mix.

NOTE: it is important to check local building codes for construction requirements in your area; these requirements will include minimum diameter and minimum depth of the footings. Footings typically must extend below the frost line to prevent shifting during freeze-thaw cycles.  

Step 2
Dig footing holes about 6 inches deeper than required.

Step 3
Fill the bottom of the hole with 6 inches of gravel and compact the gravel with a 2x4 or wood post.

Step 4
Measure and mark the QUIK-Tube for the hole depth and use a handsaw to cut the tube to length.

Step 5
Place the QUIK-Tube into the hole and level the form.

TIP: it is best to use the uncut end of the tube for the top of the footing

Step 6
Add the concrete mix to the form. After half of the form is filled, consolidate the concrete with a piece of rebar or a shovel to eliminate voids and air pockets.

Step 7
Continue to add concrete until the form is overfilled slightly. Then consolidate and level the surface.

Step 8
Immediately after leveling the surface, align and inset any deck hardware and then smooth the surface of the concrete.

Step 9
Allow the concrete to cure for one day before constructing your deck or placing heavy weight on the footing (if standard concrete mix was used, wait about 3 days to begin construction).


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