Can I Use Deck Pier Blocks Instead of Footings?

Building a deck is a great way to add outdoor living space to your home, but it can be a daunting task if you're not familiar with the building process. One of the most important decisions you'll have to make is how to support your deck.

One option is to use deck pier blocks instead of footings. But can you really use pier blocks instead of footings? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the pros and cons of using pier blocks versus footings, so you can make an informed decision for your deck building project.

1. Introduction

• Explanation of the importance of proper deck support
• Overview of the debate between using pier blocks vs footings

2. What are deck pier blocks?

• Definition and explanation of pier blocks
• How pier blocks are used in deck building
• Advantages of using pier blocks

3. What are footings?

• Definition and explanation of footings
• How footings are used in deck building
• Advantages of using footings

4. Comparison of pier blocks vs footings

• Cost comparison
• Installation process comparison
• Durability and longevity comparison
• Code compliance comparison

5. Conclusion

• Recap of key points
• Final thoughts on using pier blocks vs footings
• Recommendations for readers considering a deck building project.

1a. The importance of proper deck support

Proper deck support is crucial for the safety and longevity of your deck. A deck that is not properly supported can sag, warp, or even collapse, putting the people using it at risk. Additionally, an unsupported deck can cause damage to the structure of your home or surrounding property. Proper support begins with the foundation, which is why it is important to carefully consider the type of support system you will use for your deck. Whether you choose to use deck pier blocks or footings, it is important to ensure that your deck is built to code and can withstand the weight of the decking, railings, and any additional features you plan to include. Proper deck support is not only about safety, but also about ensuring that your deck will last for many years to come.

1b. Overview of the debate between using pier blocks vs footings

The debate between using deck pier blocks versus footings as a foundation for a deck is a common one among homeowners, builders, and contractors. On one hand, pier blocks are seen as a cost-effective and easy-to-install option for a deck foundation. They can be made of concrete or plastic and typically come pre-formed with holes for attaching the posts of a deck. On the other hand, footings are seen as a more durable and long-lasting option for a deck foundation. Footings are usually made of concrete and are poured directly into the ground. They are typically deeper and wider than pier blocks and provide a more stable foundation for the deck. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, which is why it's important to consider your specific needs, budget, and local building codes before making a final decision.

2a. Definition and explanation of pier blocks

Deck pier blocks, also known as pre-formed deck foundation blocks, are a type of foundation used to support a deck. They are typically made of concrete or plastic, and come pre-formed with holes for attaching the posts of a deck. TuffBlocks are a composite, strong & lightweight alternative to traditional concrete deck blocks. They are designed to be placed directly on the ground, and do not require digging or pouring like traditional footings do. This is why pier blocks are considered an easier and faster option to install. They are also considered a cost-effective solution for those who want to avoid the expense of digging and pouring footings. Pier blocks are available in a variety of sizes and are suitable for decks that are relatively low to the ground and don't have many levels or heavy loads. They can be used for decks that are not attached to the house, such as a freestanding deck or a floating deck.

2b. How pier blocks are used in deck building

Deck pier blocks are used in deck building as an alternative foundation to traditional footings. They are placed directly on the ground, and do not require digging or pouring. They come pre-formed with holes for attaching the posts of a deck, making it easy to install. The process of using pier blocks in deck building typically involves the following steps:

1. Mark the location of the deck on the ground and level it if necessary.
2. Place the pier blocks at the locations where the posts will be attached.
3. Adjust the pier blocks to make sure they are level and stable.
4. Insert the posts into the holes of the pier blocks.
5. Use a level to ensure that the posts are vertical.
6. Secure the posts to the pier blocks using post anchors or other hardware.
7. Build the deck frame on top of the posts.
8. Install the decking and railings.

It is important to note that pier blocks are suitable for decks that are relatively low to the ground and don't have many levels or heavy loads. It's also important to check your local building codes to ensure the use of pier blocks is allowed for your area.

2c. Advantages of using pier blocks

There are several advantages to using deck pier blocks as a foundation for your deck. Some of the main advantages include:

1. Cost-effective: Pier blocks are typically less expensive than traditional footings, as they do not require digging or pouring.
2. Easy to install: Deck pier blocks come pre-formed with holes for attaching the posts, making them easy to install. They are also easy to adjust, level, and stabilize.
3. Suitable for low-lying decks: Pier blocks are suitable for decks that are relatively low to the ground and don't have many levels or heavy loads.
4. Flexibility: Pier blocks can be used for decks that are not attached to the house, such as a freestanding deck or a floating deck. They can also be used in areas where digging is difficult, such as rocky or clay soils.
5. Speed: The process of installing pier blocks is faster than digging and pouring traditional footings, which means the deck can be built in a shorter amount of time.

It's important to note that the use of pier blocks may not be allowed in certain areas, and the suitability of the use of pier blocks should be evaluated based on the specific situation and local building codes. However, for those situations where pier blocks are a viable option, they can be a cost-effective, easy-to-install, and suitable solution for deck building.

There are many more benefits to using pier blocks that we've covered in this article, that outlines 13 benefits of using TuffBlock deck blocks.

3a. Definition and explanation of footings

Footings are a type of foundation used to support a deck. They are typically made of concrete, and are poured directly into the ground. Footings are deeper and wider than pier blocks and provide a more stable foundation for the deck. They are specifically designed to distribute the weight of the deck and its occupants over a larger area, which helps to prevent settling and shifting. Footings are critical for decks that have many levels, heavy loads, or are attached to the house. They are also used for decks that will be built in areas with heavy snow or high winds, as they provide a stronger foundation to withstand the weather. The process of installing footings typically involves digging a hole in the ground, placing a form, and pouring concrete. The forms are removed after the concrete has cured. Footings are usually required by local building codes and must comply with specific depth and width regulations to ensure the safety of the deck.

3b. How footings are used in deck building

The process of using footings in deck building typically involves the following steps:

1. Mark the location of the deck on the ground and level it if necessary.
2. Dig holes for the footings at the locations where the posts will be attached. The holes should be at least 12 inches deep and the width of the hole should be at least twice the width of the post.
3. Place the forms for the footings in the holes and level them.
4. Pour concrete into the forms and make sure it is level with the surface of the ground.
5. Allow the concrete to cure for the recommended time before removing the forms.
6. Insert the posts into the footings and secure them with post anchors or other hardware.
7. Use a level to ensure that the posts are vertical.
8. Build the deck frame on top of the posts.
9. Install the decking and railings.

3c. Advantages of using footings

There are several advantages to using footings as a foundation for your deck. Some of the main advantages include:

• Increased stability and safety: Footings provide a more stable foundation for the deck and distribute the weight of the deck and its occupants over a larger area, which helps to prevent settling and shifting. This means a safer deck for the users.
• Greater load-bearing capacity: Footings are suitable for decks that have many levels, heavy loads, or are attached to the house. They can also be used for decks that will be built in areas with heavy snow or high winds.
• Code compliance: Footings are usually required by local building codes and must comply with specific depth and width regulations to ensure the safety of the deck. This means that using footings can make sure that the deck is built according to the regulations.
• Durability: Footings are typically made of concrete, which is a strong and durable material. They are also poured directly into the ground, which is considered a more permanent solution than pier blocks.
• Long-term cost savings: While footings are more expensive than pier blocks, they are considered a more durable and long-lasting option for a deck foundation. This means that in the long run, it can save the cost of repairs and replacements.

It's important to note that the use of footings may not be suitable for some situations, depending on the specific situation and local building codes. However, for those situations where footings are a viable option, they can provide a more stable, safe and durable solution for a deck foundation.

4a. Cost comparison

When it comes to cost, pier blocks and footings can vary greatly. Pier blocks are typically less expensive than footings. This is because pier blocks are pre-formed, and do not require digging or pouring like traditional footings do. Additionally, pier blocks are less labor-intensive to install, which can also cut costs. However, it is important to note that the total cost of a deck will depend on a variety of factors such as size, materials, and location, so it's hard to make a generalization about which is cheaper.

On the other hand, footings can be more expensive than pier blocks, as they require digging and pouring of concrete. The cost of footings will also depend on the specific location, such as the cost of labor, materials, and permits in the area. However, footings are considered a more durable and long-lasting option for a deck foundation, which can save the cost of repairs and replacements in the long run.

When considering the cost, it's important to take into account not only the cost of the foundation but also the cost of the decking, railings, and other features that will be included in the deck. Additionally, it's important to consider the local building codes, as some codes may require footings, which can increase the cost of the project.

4b. Installation process comparison

When it comes to the installation process, pier blocks and footings have some significant differences.

The installation process for pier blocks is relatively simple and straightforward. The pier blocks come pre-formed with holes for attaching the posts, making them easy to install. They are placed directly on the ground, and do not require digging or pouring. The process typically involves marking the location of the deck, placing the pier blocks at the locations where the posts will be attached, adjusting the pier blocks to make sure they are level and stable, inserting the posts into the holes of the pier blocks, using a level to ensure that the posts are vertical, and securing the posts to the pier blocks using post anchors or other hardware. The whole process can be done relatively quickly and with minimal labor.

On the other hand, footings installation process is more complex and labor-intensive. It typically involves digging holes for the footings at the locations where the posts will be attached, placing the forms for the footings in the holes and leveling them, pouring concrete into the forms, allowing the concrete to cure, inserting the posts into the footings and securing them with post anchors or other hardware, using a level to ensure that the posts are vertical, and finally building the deck frame on top of the posts. This process can take longer to complete, and requires more labor and materials.

It is important to note that the use of pier blocks may not be allowed in certain areas, and the suitability of the use of pier blocks should be evaluated based on the specific situation and local building codes. However, for those situations where pier blocks are a viable option, they can be a faster and easier solution for deck building.

4c. Durability and longevity comparison

When it comes to durability and longevity, pier blocks and footings have some differences.

Pier blocks, although considered a cost-effective solution, are not as durable as footings. They are typically made of concrete or plastic, which are not as strong as traditional concrete footings. They are also placed directly on the ground, which can be affected by soil conditions and weather, which can lead to settling and shifting over time. Additionally, pier blocks are usually shorter and narrower than footings, which means they may not be able to distribute the weight of the deck as effectively.

Footings, on the other hand, are considered more durable and long-lasting. They are typically made of concrete, which is a strong and durable material. They are also poured directly into the ground, which is considered a more permanent solution than pier blocks. Footings are deeper and wider than pier blocks, which means they can distribute the weight of the deck more effectively. Additionally, footings are usually required by local building codes and must comply with specific depth and width regulations to ensure the safety of the deck, which can guarantee the deck's stability and safety over time.

In summary, footings are considered more durable and long-lasting solution for a deck foundation, but pier blocks can be a suitable solution for decks that are relatively low to the ground and don't have many levels or heavy loads. It is important to evaluate the specific situation and local building codes before making a final decision.

4d. Code compliance comparison

When it comes to code compliance, pier blocks and footings have some differences.

Pier blocks are usually not required by local building codes, and may not comply with specific depth and width regulations to ensure the safety of the deck. While pier blocks may be suitable for decks that are relatively low to the ground and don't have many levels or heavy loads, they may not be suitable for decks that require more stability and safety. Additionally, local building codes may not allow the use of pier blocks, which can make it difficult to obtain the necessary permits for the deck.

Footings, on the other hand, are usually required by local building codes, and must comply with specific depth and width regulations to ensure the safety of the deck. They are considered a more stable and safe option for a deck foundation and are suitable for decks that have many levels, heavy loads, or are attached to the house. They are also used for decks that will be built in areas with heavy snow or high winds, as they provide a stronger foundation to withstand the weather.

Additionally, local building codes usually allow the use of footings, which can make it easier to obtain the necessary permits for the deck.

It is important to note that building codes can vary depending on the location, so it's crucial to check with your local building department to make sure that the foundation you choose is compliant with your area's codes and regulations.

5a. Recap of key points

In this article, we have discussed the debate between using deck pier blocks and footings as a foundation for a deck. We have looked at the advantages and disadvantages of each option and have compared them in terms of cost, installation process, durability and longevity, and code compliance.

It's important to note that pier blocks are considered a cost-effective and easy-to-install option for a deck foundation. They are suitable for decks that are relatively low to the ground and don't have many levels or heavy loads. They can be made of concrete or plastic and typically come pre-formed with holes for attaching the posts of a deck.

On the other hand, footings are considered a more durable and long-lasting option for a deck foundation. They are usually made of concrete and are poured directly into the ground. They are typically deeper and wider than pier blocks and provide a more stable foundation for the deck. They are usually required by local building codes and must comply with specific depth and width regulations to ensure the safety of the deck.

It's important to consider your specific needs, budget, and local building codes before making a final decision. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it's crucial to carefully evaluate each one before making a final decision.

 

5b. Final thoughts on using pier blocks vs footings

In conclusion, when deciding between using pier blocks or footings as a foundation for your deck, it's important to consider your specific needs, budget, and local building codes. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it's crucial to carefully evaluate each one before making a final decision.

Pier blocks are a cost-effective and easy-to-install option for a deck foundation and are suitable for decks that are relatively low to the ground and don't have many levels or heavy loads. However, they may not be as durable or long-lasting as traditional footings and may not comply with specific depth and width regulations to ensure the safety of the deck.

Footings, on the other hand, provide a more stable and safe foundation for the deck and are suitable for decks that have many levels, heavy loads, or are attached to the house. They are also used for decks that will be built in areas with heavy snow or high winds. They are usually required by local building codes and must comply with specific depth and width regulations to ensure the safety of the deck. They may be more expensive and labor-intensive to install, but they can save the cost of repairs and replacements in the long run.