Measuring between the marks should be 5′ as illustrated. Which means mark from corner to 3′ on one leg, the other side should be 4′. One can measure diagonals or use the 3-4-5 multiples technique. Don’t use a 2′ level on 16′ lumber, it will rarely show actual level especially with treated lumber. Step #6 After placing blocks continually check your beam, or structure is level with the longest level possible and square it up. Step #5 Compaction or hand tamping is always a good idea for any foundation method. Step #4 Then calculate where your blocks will be located and prepare the area as needed using level string lines, a laser transit or other level method. Step #3 Different slopes may require other options or placement of your blocks depending on the steepness of the grade(ground). Gravel isn’t needed, but some like to use it. Step #2 Decide if excavation, compaction or placing gravel is needed to reach your overall structure height. Step #1 Start with a plan and write it down, so steps aren’t missed. That will require much more attention to level. If you’re using posts on the blocks, the grade level isn’t as important as if your beams etc. Since your structure will sit on the blocks, it’s important to level your blocks. #CONCRETE DECK BLOCKS HOW TO#How to Build a Shed Foundation with Deck Blocks There are too many factors to show how to use it, but a little research can aid your plan and give you a nice drawing. There are a few variables for the quantity of blocks so drawing everything out is a good idea or using an online calculator can be useful. An average 12′ x12′ can use around 18 blocks, but more is certainly ok, just space evenly. Generally speaking, you want support every 3-4′ for a normal use building and 4-6′ for lighter situations. Structures like small decks or sitting on a rock will require less. Softer soil or heavier structures will require more weight distribution. The quantity will depend on the soil conditions, weight, layout, and the size of your structure. Piers will provide a greater lateral (sideways) and overall support than blocks. The blocks can be buried but typically aren’t more than a couple of inches.Ĭoncrete footings will provide greater support due to the higher mass and surface area but will usually require more time and money. Blocks will allow minimal surface prep or digging as opposed to concrete piers which will usually require excavation of large amounts of dirt, more labor and associated costs. #CONCRETE DECK BLOCKS INSTALL#Deck Blocks vs Concrete Footings or Piersĭeck blocks will normally be quicker and cheaper to install than concrete footings. Especially in loose soils or wet conditions which requires more weight distribution. That’s why it’s a good idea to use more than less.ĭispersing the weight is the idea and diverting water away from the structure. The deck blocks can sink if the soil under them erodes for some reason or the weight is unevenly distributed. It would cause structural damage and separations. Obviously, you don’t want one section raising and lowering and another not. That is also a factor for underground mechanicals that raise to the structure. The blocks float on the ground and will raise and lower with the frost. The structure on blocks also can’t be fastened to a permanent structure with frost protection (foundation down to frost line). If your area has frost line restrictions which vary up 70” in northern areas, they won’t likely be allowed for permanent or residential structures. Will Deck Blocks Hold Up to Frostline Restrictions and Will They Sink?īasically they won’t be allowed. The block size will vary according to the manufacturer, but they are generally 10″-11” square and 7″-8” high. They are found at most big box home stores or check your local hardware store. They vary in price from $4 to $6 depending on location. How much are Deck Blocks and where do I get them? They will add lateral support and inhibit uplift in stormy or high wind situations. There are other types of ground anchors like used for Mobile Homes etc. Some areas may additionally require the use of auger type tie downs that are like a metal screw that goes into the ground then fasten to structural framing members. #CONCRETE DECK BLOCKS CODE#It’s best to check with your local building code office to see if they’re allowed for your type of structure.
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