TuffBlock is a multi-purpose foundation system used for a range of home improvement projects including low profile decks, garden sheds, landings, pathways, cubby houses, dog shelters and more.
TuffBlocks are an extremely popular alternative to digging holes and mixing concrete, which saves both DIY enthusiasts and professional builders time and money.
Not only are you building more effectively and efficiently, you’re building smarter with 100% recycled plastics.
Product Dimensions | Size & Weight |
---|---|
Width | 11.81” |
Height | 3.54” |
Length | 11.81” |
Height from ground to base | 2" |
Weight | 1.5lbs |
Specification | Instant Foundation System |
---|---|
Model Name | TuffBlock Instant Foundation System |
Model Number | 14010001 |
Dimensions | Width 11.81", Height 3.54”, Length 11.81” |
Weight | 1.5lbs |
Material | High strength closed loop recycled polyolefin material with an ultra-high UV rating |
Material Color | Black |
Load Rating | 1,700 lbs |
Stirrup Width | Suits 1½ - 2-inch joists and bearers, 3½ x 3½ inch or 4 x 4-inch square posts |
ICC Certification | 2021 & 2018 International Building Code (IBC)
2021 & 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) |
Questions that are answered in this TuffBlock FAQ video:
0:00 What is a floating foundation system?
0:31 How much weight can each TuffBlock support?
0:43 Are TuffBlocks UV resistant?
0:58 Can I use TuffBlocks on sloping ground?
1:14 Do I need council approval?
1:34 How do posts/joists sit in the TuffBlock and do they require fixing?
1:56 Can TuffBlocks be used on wet surfaces?
2:22 Can I use TuffBlocks on sand?
2:35 Will TuffBlocks sink into the ground?
3:08 Can I use TuffBlocks in high wind areas?
3:27 How many TuffBlocks will I need for my project?
3:57 What if I have ground movement in my area?
Please note. This FAQ video relates to both the TuffBlock and Evo-Crete Handi Block products. BuildTuff offers this information as a general guide only. You should rely only on relevant building codes and standard industry established construction methods in any construction project. For our Master FAQ, please click here.
Posts: Accepts 3.5" x 3.5" or 4" x 4" Posts
Joists & Bearers: Accepts 1½ - 2" Joists & Bearers
Deck Area Calculator & TuffBlock Estimator
Please use our custom TuffBlock Calculator to estimate your TuffBlocks or use the table below.
Deck Length (feet) | Deck Width (feet) | Deck Area Calculator (square feet) | Estimated TuffBlocks |
---|---|---|---|
8 | 12 | 96 | 24 |
20 | 10 | 200 | 42 |
20 | 12 | 240 | 42 |
30 | 10 | 300 | 60 |
20 | 16 | 320 | 56 |
35 | 10 | 350 | 72 |
The number of TuffBlocks required is based on 16 inch centers when calculated.
Geometric calculations only (imperial). Check local building regulations for required material, sizes and spacing.
Simple Foundation Steps
Prepare Ground
Prepare the ground by removing any loose top soil or vegetation. Compact the ground with a tamp, and consider using aggregate like crushed rock or paver base.
Layout Frame
Build the outer frame to get level and square. Then fill in the cross joists with TuffBlocks spaced in accordance with the allowable spans for your lumber.
Install Deck Boards
Finish off by installing deck boards with spacing for airflow, and complete the outer section using fascia to hide the TuffBlocks for a seamless finish.
Ultra-Lightweight
TuffBlock is an ultra-lightweight concrete block alternative with each TuffBlock weighing just 1.5 lbs. A TuffBlock is 19 times lighter than a concrete block and 11 times lighter than the Evo-Crete Handi Block.
TuffBlock Versatility
TuffBlock's versatility means it can be used across a range of projects. TuffBlocks can also be used as an intermediary solution when used in combination with traditional in-ground concrete methods, where the application requires anchoring.
Strong & Tough
Made in America for professionals and home improvement renovators. Each TuffBlock is incredibly strong, with its vertical load designed to support up to 1,700 lbs and is break tested to 11,000 lbs.
Circular Economy
TuffBlocks are 100% recycled and made from high strength closed loop polymers. Each TuffBlock is made from materials destined for landfill and our oceans. Even better than that, each off-cut is repurposed into a future TuffBlock.
ICC CERTIFIED PRODUCT
TuffBlock has been assessed by the International Code Council and is shown to be compliant with the following:
2021 & 2018 International Building Code (IBC)
2021 & 2018 International Residential Code (IRC)
Along with a range of specific city building codes:
2020 City of Los Angeles Building Code (LABC)
2020 City of Los Angeles Building Code (LARC)
2019 California Building Code (CBC)
2019 California Residential Code (CRC)
2020 Florida Building Code - Building
2020 Florida Building Code - Residential
DISCOVER SMARTER WITH
- What are TuffBlocks made from? TuffBlocks are made from high strength recycled plastic. The lightweight material means they’re easily stacked and transported to job sites, unlike traditional concrete deck block methods.
- What's TuffBlock's warranty? TuffBlocks will not chip, crack, corrode or grow mold. We're so confident in our TuffBlocks, we offer a 25 year warranty
- How does TuffBlock save me time? TuffBlocks are perfect for all skill levels and can be used in conjunction with traditional methods to save time and cost. It removes the need for the digging of holes, the pouring of concrete and shifting any subterranean obstacles, like tree roots or pipes.
As seen on:
- Award Winning
- Highly Versatile
- 100% Recycled
- Won't Crack or Chip
- Load Rated
- 25 Year Warranty
USA Wide Shipping
We deliver across the USA with Free Shipping
Our Guarantee
We're so confident in our products and service, we offer a 25 year warranty on your TuffBlocks
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It is completely dependent on the project. As a general rule, if you’re supporting joists directly on the TuffBlocks, you will need to support the joists with a TuffBlock at every 4.92 feet intervals. Joists will need to be spaced at a distance appropriate to the finished material. For example; it is recommended that some decking timbers be spaced at 17 inches. It is always best to check with your timber material supplier for material specific recommendations.
Deck blocks were introduced over 30 years ago in the USA and since then, instant foundation blocks have been embraced worldwide for creating strong and stable foundations for both professional and DIY projects. TuffBlock's are an extremely popular alternative to digging holes, carrying heavy concrete blocks, mixing concrete and waiting for it to set. TuffBlock's are a versatile utility block and the options are endless for how you can use them to make completing your projects a breeze.
Yes. Especially when you consider the time and effort taken to dig multiple holes and then mix the concrete to fill them back in, not to mention the cost of buying the steel post supports and bags of concrete in the first place. Generally a steel post support and two bags of concrete will set you back around $24-30 USD. Even if you use a few more TuffBlocks, you are still well ahead of the old conventional footing method.
TuffBlocks have been engineered for structures up to 36" above ground. Having said this, many people have built structures higher than this using the composite foundation method (TuffBlocks in combination with concrete-in-ground footings). We recommend that you consult with a qualified builder or engineer regarding your project.
TuffBlocks have been engineered to be stackable and only weigh 1.5 lbs each, compared to that of a traditional concrete deck block that weighs 41.5 lbs each!
Made in America for professionals and home improvement renovators. Each TuffBlock is incredibly strong, with its vertical load designed to support up to 1,700 lbs and is break tested to 11,000 lbs.
You can find our Master FAQ here, with our full list of TuffBlock questions answered.