0

I am extending my deck and plan to make it a freestanding deck (just to avoid attaching to the current one but it will be close on top).

I plan to have a row of 4 posts on the lower level (left). Each post has 4x4 on top of pier block with metal bracket (same as existing deck):

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Concrete-Pier-Block-with-Metal-Bracket-8053112/202820094

Then on the upper slope, I am planning to use 2x8 and put on top of this pier posts:

http://www.homedepot.com/p/10-in-x-10-in-x-8-in-Concrete-Deck-Block-012023A/205613606

enter image description here

Do you think this is OK?

5
  • Depends how you plan to use those blocks. Are you planning to bury them 30" deep? decks.com/how-to/573/…
    – Tyson
    May 13, 2016 at 13:18
  • I won't be burying them completely but leave like 1/3 above the ground.
    – HP.
    May 13, 2016 at 23:22
  • Did you read the article I linked? That type block should be sunk to be below the frostline. @benWelborn answer is awesome.
    – Tyson
    May 14, 2016 at 0:28
  • Yes I read all the articles in that link. We are in Seattle so no frost line. But I am planning to dig 1 foot deep, fill with 5/8" minus like 3-4 inches, then put the blocks on top.
    – HP.
    May 14, 2016 at 18:04
  • Depending which map you look at the frostline in Seattle is either 18" or 24"
    – Tyson
    May 14, 2016 at 18:09

1 Answer 1

2

Those pier blocks or deck blocks are a waste of money. It's not going to be as difficult to dig a few holes and install some real posts now as it will be after the deck is complete and has sunken (unevenly). They might be okay for a light duty shed or dog house, but nothing significant, like a deck.

Edit based on comment:

enter image description here

4
  • Sure. But from architecture stand point, do you think it's OK to have 1 side using 4x4 post while the other side using the 4x8 as the beam directly on the pier footing?
    – HP.
    May 13, 2016 at 23:23
  • @HP 4x8 or 2x8? (or two 2x8s together?); the concrete blocks are made for 2x8... or various sizes. Supposing that you had solid footing, it would be ok. Editing answer with pictures. May 14, 2016 at 3:04
  • The block is for 4x8 like lowes.com/… because it's the beam right? I mean I can't just use 2x8 for beam, no? I guess my main concern is if it's OK architecturally to have 4x4 posts on one side and just beam directly on blocks on the other side.
    – HP.
    May 14, 2016 at 18:01
  • @HP Whether you set the beam on a block or a post doesn't make the difference. Without getting distracted by technical exceptions, you could use a 2x8 if you have it thouroghly supported. If you use a 4x8 beam, then it should be able to hold more weight, and/or require less support. But since the support will be blocks placed on the ground, I would probably use 4x8 plus extra blocks for support (distribute the weight). Sinking blocks/support is the primary concern. May 16, 2016 at 12:32

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.