How to Attach Deck Post Bases to Concrete Footers
The footings of your deck are exactly what they sound like – the feet of the deck. They’re the concrete foundations that support your deck. In order for posts to properly resist varying degrees of weight, posts must rest on and be anchored to concrete footings. It’s important to note that patios and pre-cast concrete piers do not qualify as proper footings for deck construction.
To anchor posts to concrete footings, you need to use a post base connector. Whether you’re using natural, decay-resistant or preservative-treated wood, it’s recommended that posts be elevated off the concrete by 1 inch to help prevent decay at the end of the post due to moisture.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
How to Slope a Deck for Water Runoff and Drainage
Learn if your deck needs to be sloped and how to do it.
Deck Floor Joists
Step-by-step instructions and tips on how to frame. Learn how to install treated wood joists and beams to build a strong deck.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Dos & Don'ts for Homeowners to Consider When Building a Deck
Your dream deck can take whatever shape you like. The trick is making it fit your budget and site conditions. While the deck doesn’t have to be built as a rectangle, there could be good reasons for doing just that.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
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
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.
Beam Span Chart
Learn how to size your deck beam using this easy-to-use span table. Just cross-reference the post spacing and joist length to determine the beam size.
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 Demolish & Remove a Deck
At some point, it might become necessary to remove an old deck, due to age or condition. Learn more about what's involved in a deck demolition and removal project.
How to Install Composite Decking
Learn about how to install composite decking. Topics include expansion and contraction issues and hidden fastener systems.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
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