Deck blocks should only be used on soil types that provide adequate drainage, like sandy or gravel-like. Deck blocks work best on these soils since they drain quickly during autumn and prevent frost heave during the winter.
Easier to install with minimal excavation required, these footings offer greater ease in terms of installation time. Unfortunately, their durability cannot compare to concrete footings; furthermore they’re susceptible to settlement issues.
They are easy to install
Deck blocks are precast foundations designed to support the frame of a new deck. They’re an easy solution for creating raised porches, patios and balconies without needing concrete footings, as they don’t take nearly as much time or money to install than traditional footings; plus they’re less frost-sensitive!
However, it’s important to keep in mind that deck blocks may not be as strong or suitable for all applications compared to concrete footings and may not always be appropriate for permanent structures on solid and well-compacted soils. When installing permanent structures underground it would be prudent to opt for concrete footings instead as deck blocks cannot support such weight loads as effectively.
Another drawback of deck blocks is their dependence on the load-bearing capacity of the soil, particularly if it prone to movement. If this happens, deck blocks could sink and become unstable – something which is problematic as this reduces their height while potentially leading to structural damage to your deck itself.
If you are contemplating using deck blocks to support your structure, it is crucial that you determine how many you require for proper support. A great place to start would be by drawing out a plan of the deck and marking where and how many supports will be required; generally speaking, every 3-4 feet should have support; this may vary depending on soil conditions and weight considerations.
They are affordable
Deck blocks are inexpensive and easily available at most home improvement stores, making installation a straightforward process without needing excavation or concrete mixing. Though great for many applications, deck blocks won’t support structures requiring strong foundations such as deck blocks – for these situations, concrete footings would provide better support and could potentially last much longer than deck blocks alone.
Deck blocks’ primary drawback lies in their tendency to sink under heavy loads and move unevenly due to soil conditions or not evenly dispersing weight distribution – something which could cost your structure several inches of height, as well as cause structural damage.
In order to avoid this scenario, it’s critical that the ground where your deck will be built is prepared carefully. This means clearing away any grass and making sure that soil levels out evenly before adding a layer of gravel beneath your deck to help stop water pooling and creating freeze-thaw issues during winter months.
Deck blocks may be affordable, but their lack of firm support makes them vulnerable to moisture penetration and wood-destroying insects – meaning that they should only be used for freestanding structures on small, ground-level sites. In comparison, post holes provide more support and are adaptable enough to suit whatever designs are desired for your deck.
They are durable
Deck blocks can be an effective solution to support and prevent moisture penetration of a deck, but this solution has its own drawbacks that may make them unsuitable in certain instances.
Pier blocks may become damaged from exposure to weather elements and don’t last as long when placed in soil with wet or loose conditions; additionally, wet or loose conditions could cause them to sink or shift over time and compromise its structure, leading to problems for deck posts as well as compromised structure integrity.
Also note that for best results they must be placed a minimum 12 inches below grade or the depth of local frost depth for best results.
Deck block foundations are much simpler and cheaper than concrete footings to install, making them an excellent option for DIYers with limited construction experience. Plus, deck block foundations require no excavation – meaning DIYers with limited knowledge don’t need special equipment like sod cutters to clear away debris and vegetation before using this foundation option!
Just ensure the ground is free of debris before beginning installation with any sod cutter or digging equipment.
As part of a secure foundation, it’s also vitally important to space out deck blocks evenly for an even surface. Heavy structures should have at least three to four foot-supports every four or five feet; lighter structures need six foot supports every six to seven feet.
This will evenly distribute weight distribution, helping prevent snow or high wind damage and keeping things looking their best! For optimal drainage and support purposes, add gravel or sand underneath each deck block as a drainage source or sturdy base layer.
They are prone to settling
Although deck blocks offer an easy, cost-effective solution for creating low freestanding decks, they can become vulnerable to settling due to being made out of concrete blocks that do not support enough load; furthermore they expose wooden posts to moisture penetration and wood-destroying insects; additionally many do not comply with local building code requirements and lack reinforcing steel reinforcement; this poses serious foundational and structural damage issues including separation between columns.
Deck block construction requires less excavation and expertise than other options, making them a suitable option for DIY builders. They’re lightweight and easy to work with – ideal for DIY builders with basic carpentry knowledge – though molded concrete and composite materials may become vulnerable over time, leading to cracks appearing in your deck which shorten its lifespan while creating potential safety risks.
Before beginning construction, prepare the area where you will place the deck blocks by excavating and clearing away any roots or stumps, levelling the ground, removing grass or weeds that might have taken root, and evenly spacing your blocks – this may seem like an innocuous task but is essential to making sure the foundation of your deck remains safe and sound.
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