Loading

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.


Popular Footings Articles
Concrete

Cutting a Concrete Pad

Learn how to use a concrete saw to cut a hole in a patio slab to install a deck footing.

Footing Installation

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.

Concrete

Working With Concrete

Learn tips from the pros on how to mix and pour concrete for deck footings.

Next Step: Framing Articles
Deck Support Columns

How to Decorate Deck Support Columns

Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.

Deck Framing

4 Tried and True Methods on How to Square a Deck Frame

Discover the secrets to perfectly squaring your deck frame. Our guide simplifies the process, ensuring your deck is flawlessly shaped and structurally sound.

Deck Support Beams

How to Size a Deck Beam

Learn about how to choose the correct size beam for your deck. We discuss engineered beams and "sandwiched" style beams.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Popular Footings Articles
Footing Installation

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.

Footing Installation

Can I use pier blocks?

Our inspector explains the pros and cons of using pier blocks for deck foundations.

Footing Installation

Digging Foundations

Learn how to hand dig or mechanically dig your deck footings with step-by-step instructions. Learn what to do if you hit a rock.

Next Step: Framing Articles
Deck Framing

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.

Deck Framing

Deck Blocking: Bridging, Spacing, Methods, and How to Install Like a Pro

Learn the importance of deck blocking and how to install it when building your deck.

Deck Framing

Building a Deck Around a Tree

Learn how to build a deck around a tree to allow the tree to grow and not damage its root system while digging footings.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic