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 reuse existing footings
Our inspector discusses the topic of reusing footings for a new deck.
How to Buy Concrete: Hiring a Ready-Mix Truck
Hiring a truck to deliver ready-mixed concrete for your project may make better sense than mixing it yourself. Learn how to order concrete for your deck at Decks.com.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
How to Build a Ground Level Deck
Adding a ground level or floating deck to your home may be the perfect addition to your outdoor space. Learn how to build a ground level deck at Decks.com.
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.
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.
Installing footings on a sloped yard
Our inspector explains how to install concrete deck footings on uneven ground.
Do I need to use rebar?
Our inspector discusses using steel rebar for deck footings.
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 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