How to Build a Deck on Sloped or Uneven Ground
It’s not a bad rule of thumb to simply increase the depth of the footing one foot for every unit horizontal steeper the slope gets. Between 3:1 and 2:1 slopes, a minimum of two feet deep, and between 2:1 and 1:1 slopes, no less than 3 feet deep. For slopes steeper than 45 degrees, consulting an engineer may be the best choice. Beyond this generalization, you also need to consider if the soil is unstable, loose or sandy. In these cases, the lateral stability for the footings is even worse, and a little more depth is likely necessary to assure they don’t slide down the hill.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
How to Install & Build Deck Footings
Learn how to install concrete footings to properly support your deck. Watch our step-by-step foundations video.
Footing Size
You don’t need to be an engineer to figure out what size footings your new deck will need to safely support it. Everything you need to know is right here.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Engineered Deck Beam
Use treated engineered deck beams for long spans with fewer posts and footings. Engineered beams can be designed and specially ordered from your lumberyard.
How to Extend a Deck
A deck extension is a great option when you feel like you need more outdoor space. Learn the step-by-step process of extending 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?
Avoid a wobbly deck! Learn how to calculate the right number of footings to keep your structure safe and solid.
Can I reuse existing footings
Our inspector discusses the topic of reusing footings for a new deck.
How to Install & Build Deck Footings
Learn how to install concrete footings to properly support your deck. Watch our step-by-step foundations video.
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 Build a Multi-Level Deck
Multi-level decks are very popular. Learn how to build a deck that steps up or down using shared posts and footing connections.
How to Use Shared Load Deck Support Posts
Learn how to support an upper and lower deck using one support post and a larger footing by bolting the lower deck into the side of the post.
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