They usually weigh around 48 pounds each and are typically between 10- and 11-inches square and 7 to 8 inches high. You can find them at many local hardware stores. Deck blocks vs concrete footings – cost differencesĭepending on your location, deck blocks can cost between $4 each and $6. Where location means mixing concrete is difficult or transportation of concrete is difficult.When below-grade concrete footings aren’t needed.For free-standing and floating structures.With heavy clay soils that hold lots of water.When frost heave of the soil is likely.In places with high uplift or high wind. When frost heave regulations apply, you need to use concrete footings instead of deck blocks.If you are building a permanent structure that needs frost protection.When should you use concrete footings?Ĭoncrete footings are needed in various situations. They are sometimes unstable depending on the ground they’re placed upon.There may be manufacturing faults or damage from transportation.They’re largely resistant to corrosion.They can be handled by one person usually.They come in different sizes and shapes.They require lots of labor and often need more than one person working on them.They are difficult to repair when damage occurs.Installing concrete footings can be expensive.They support greater loads compared to deck blocks.They’re very common and construction workers have been using them for years.They provide great stability and support.They are a great option for places with cold winters.Concrete ingredients are readily available all over.As concrete footings are made on-site, there won’t be any flaws or defects from the manufacturing process or transportation.Concrete footings are made in-situ, which makes it easier to transport materials.Though they can be used for outbuildings like sheds. Deck blocks look rather crude but they’re useful.Īs their name suggests, they’re most often used to support deck constructions. They also need to be placed 12 inches below the frost line. This is the space that the block covers on the ground. These blocks are recognized in building codes and are subject to the same requirements when used in foundations.ĭeck blocks need to have an adequate bearing area. The difference is that these aren’t cast in their final location. What are Deck Blocks?ĭeck blocks are simplified precast foundations. Usually, concrete is poured into a form that is removed once the concrete has dried into the desired shape. This is to provide drainage as well as a base level. You’ll usually put compacted gravel at the very bottom before pouring the concrete. Concrete footings need to be both stable and strong, especially if the soil around them is weak.ĭepending on the structure, many footings will go deep underground below the frost line. What are concrete footings?Ĭoncrete footings serve the purpose of supporting whatever weight is placed on top of them.įor some footings, this is a whole building, while others simply support a single fence post. Typically, footings are made by excavating a hole, inserting reinforced steel rebars, and pouring in concrete. Whether you’re building a retaining wall, deck, shed, or a large building, you’ll need footings. Also Helpful What are concrete footings?Ĭoncrete footings are an important element of a foundation.Conclusion – deck blocks Vs concrete footings.What type of concrete is used for deck footings?.
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