Protecting Your Holes from Collapse
Once your holes are in place, how do you make sure they don’t cave in and waste all of your hard work? One easy solution is to purchase cardboard form tubes and place them in the holes to prevent the holes from collapsing. These tubes are sold in different sizes. You will probably want 12” or 16” diameter tubes that are at least 6’ tall. For about $20 each, you can save yourself the frustration of redigging collapsed holes. You can remove the tubes after the footing inspection or leave them in the ground to naturally degrade in the soil.
You will also want to cover the holes with something to keep water out. If your holes fill with water, they are more likely to collapse and you will not be able to pass a footing inspection while water is in the bottom of the hole. You can use plywood or tarps, some people have even used garbage can lids. Try to coordinate your footing inspection so that you don’t have to leave the footings open for a long period of time.
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 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 Size
Learn how large to make your deck footings. Use our table for maximum allowable loads to determine the proper size for your soil type.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
How to Use Steel Metal Deck Support Posts and Columns
Steel deck posts with base plates can be used as an alternative to wood posts for supporting your deck.
Roof Top Deck Construction
Rooftop decks transform otherwise wasted space into beautiful planes for entertaining, dining, relaxing and even gardening. The views will make your deck the talk of the neighborhood and draw frequent guests to your home or business.
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 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.
Water in deck footing holes
Find out what to do if your deck footing holes fill up with water.
Soil Conditions
Learn how soil conditions can affect the size of your deck footings. Do you have gravel, sand or clay soil?
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 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.
Building Your Deck For A Hot Tub
Learn how to build a deck to properly support a hot tub or spa. Hot tubs are very heavy. Never place a hot tub on a deck that wasn't designed for the additional load.
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