Do I need rebar in deck footing?

Most deck builders don’t place steel reinforcing rebar in footings, but in areas with expansive or other unstable soils rebar is usually required.

How long should concrete deck footings cure?

Allow the concrete to cure for one day before constructing your deck or placing heavy weight on the footing (if standard concrete mix was used, wait about 3 days to begin construction).

How do you build a deck without footings?

Instead of using footings, adding a level of gravel will give you the drainage aspect you are looking for. You can then add a frame of wood that anchors in concrete blocks that sit in the gravel, creating your new deck. Concrete blocks won’t rot, making them an ideal option for those who don’t want to use wood.

How do you build a concrete deck footing?

When you pour concrete footings, hold the cardboard concrete form tube about 12 in. up from the bottom of the footing. Do this by nailing the sides of the tube to the center of a tic-tac-toe grid of 2x4s at the top of the hole. Then dump concrete through the tube into the bottom of the hole.

What can you use instead of footings for a deck?

Instead of using footings, adding a level of gravel will give you the drainage aspect you are looking for. You can then add a frame of wood that anchors in concrete blocks that sit in the gravel, creating your new deck. Concrete blocks won’t rot, making them an ideal option for those who don’t want to use wood.

How big of a hole do you need for a deck footing?

Use a post hole digger to dig a hole deep enough to penetrate the frost line. Footings 12 inches in diameter will be sufficient for deck supports. Fill the bottom of the hole with 6 inches of gravel to divert water from the footing.

Can a Floating Deck be built without footing?

However, a small deck, that is a few inches off the ground, will be able to sit securely on concrete blocks. The block should be reinforced with some rebar through the center and Ready Mix Concrete. A floating deck that is built close to the ground will not need to have any kind of deck footing.