How to Cut Concrete and Pavers
If your deck will be built above a concrete patio, it is always best to have the deck footings in place before the patio is installed. However, if the patio exists, you will need to cut openings in the patio in order to install your frost footings. Using a sledge hammer or jack hammer can break up the patio, but will leave a broken edge and will likely crack the entire slab.
SaveIf you want a small, clean hole, this must be done by using a diamond-bladed concrete saw. These tools are expensive and require some skill. You may want to consider hiring someone to do this for you. If you decide you are up to doing it yourself, remember to pay special attention to safety. Cutting concrete will be extremely noisy and dusty. You should wear ear and eye protection and be careful not to breathe in the concrete dust. Once the footings are in place, you may be able to refinish the surface of the patio to its original condition.
Cutting a Concrete Pad
Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.
Soil Conditions
Learn how soil conditions can affect the size of your deck footings. Do you have gravel, sand or clay soil?
Layout Deck Foundations
Learn how to lay out your deck footings accurately using triangulation with our step-by-step instructions.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Deck Bracing
Learn how to install knee bracing in-between your deck support posts to provide extra strength against high winds and to prevent racking forces for tall decks.
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.
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 to Cut Concrete and Pavers
If your deck will be built above a concrete patio, it is always best to have the deck footings in place before the patio is installed. However, if the patio exists, you will need to cut openings in the patio in order to install your frost footings. Using a sledge hammer or jack hammer can break up the patio, but will leave a broken edge and will likely crack the entire slab.
SaveIf you want a small, clean hole, this must be done by using a diamond-bladed concrete saw. These tools are expensive and require some skill. You may want to consider hiring someone to do this for you. If you decide you are up to doing it yourself, remember to pay special attention to safety. Cutting concrete will be extremely noisy and dusty. You should wear ear and eye protection and be careful not to breathe in the concrete dust. Once the footings are in place, you may be able to refinish the surface of the patio to its original condition.
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.
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.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Using Shims to Level the Deck Surface
Install shims or notch joist bottom across uneven joists to level your deck surface.
How to Attach Deck Post Bases to Concrete Footers
Follow our step-by-step instructions on how to install a support post to a concrete deck footing using a post base connector and anchor.
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