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.
Layout Deck Foundations
Learn how to lay out your deck footings accurately using triangulation with our step-by-step instructions.
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 Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Building a Balcony Deck
Learn information about balcony decks that use cantilevered joists that attach to house floor truss systems.
How to Use a Triple Deck Beam to 6x6 Post Connection
Learn how to use a post beam connector to attach a 3-2x10 beam to a support post for a deck when there isn't enough material on the post to create a notched connection.
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
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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.
How to Install & Build Deck Footings
Learn how to install concrete footings to properly support your deck. Watch our step-by-step foundations video.
Layout Deck Foundations
Learn how to lay out your deck footings accurately using triangulation with our step-by-step instructions.
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.
Framing a Deck Parallel to a House
Learn about an alternative framing method that allows you to install your decking perpendicular to the house and makes the deck free standing.
Decks vs Patios: Cost, Pros, Cons, & Comparisons
Learn what factors affect the costs of decking and patios. Discover all the comparisons factors to help you choose the right space for your home with Decks.com.
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