Deck Foot - Floating - Ground Contact

HOW MANY FOOTINGS DO I NEED?

The Rule of Thumb is 6'-0" apart for each footing.  This corresponds to a design load of 50 psf and tributary areas over each footing of 36 sqft.  

So the total load imposed on the soil below each footing would be a maximum of 1800 psf as the footing is just slightly larger than 1 sqft.

If you have a large deck where three or more beams are going to be used, consider adding one additional footing along the interior beam.  This is because the tributary loads of any structure are always greatest in the middle.

CONVEX PLATE FOR GROUND CONTACT

Designed for direct ground contact, the convex load plate ensures stability on compacted gravel or soil. Pairs perfectly with our Shorty or Tall Boy style Post Saddles.

• Installs directly into the ground—no need for a hard surface.

• Ideal for use on gravel, soil, or other compacted bases.

• Provides a secure, anchored footing for your structure.

FLAT PLATE OVER PAVER STONES

Our flat load plate allows simpler installations over pavers or stone. Pairs perfectly with our Shorty or Tall Boy style Post Saddles, or Pergola Brackets.

• Remove enough pavers to allow the helical blade to clear.

• Load plate rests on a hard surface.

• Also useful over asphalt.

WHAT IF MY POSTS AREN'T 6x6 OR 4x4

For projects with posts that aren't using traditional 4x4 or 6x6 posts—or if you just prefer a more versatile mounting solution—our Pergola Post Brackets are the perfect choice.

They accommodate a wide range of post types, including wood, metal, hollow, and closed-bottom posts.

When using a solid wood post or a closed bottom metal post, an access hole for the drive head of the auger must be bored into the post (1-3/4" to 2" dia.).

A common bi-metal hole saw can be used to cut a hole in the flat bottom of metal post.  This hole allows the drive head of the auger to reside inside the post.

INSTALLATION OVER PAVERS

This installation guide will walk you through securing the flat load plate over pavers using our Pergola Post Brackets, providing a strong and versatile foundation for your structure.

The flat plate rests on a hard surface while the helical anchor drives into the ground for added stability

If you prefer a more traditional approach, the brackets can be swapped out for our Shorty or Tall Boy Post Saddles, allowing you to customize your installation to fit your needs.

HOW DOES FROST AFFECT THE ANCHOR?

The Deck Foot Anchor™ is designed to remain securely in place, unlike traditional fence posts that can gradually lift out of the ground over time. It stays anchored while moving with the natural expansion and contraction of the soil during freeze-thaw cycles, ensuring long-term stability.

The Deck Foot Anchor - Floating™ is not promoted as a frost footing and falls under Section R403.1.4.1. Exception 3 (IRC) and Section 9.12.2.2.(7) (NBC). Therefore it is recommended for use with freestanding decks.

If you want a true frost footing that also accommodates ledger attached structures check out the Deck Foot Anchor - Ledger or the Ledger - Load Max

Optimal Times for Installing the Deck Foot Anchor

To ensure the best results and avoid potential damage, it's important to install the Deck Foot Anchor when the ground is fully thawed and free of frost. Attempting to drive the auger into frozen or partially frozen soil can cause excessive stress on the anchor, potentially leading to bending or breakage.

We recommend scheduling your installation during late spring, summer, or early fall — typically once overnight temperatures consistently stay above freezing and any frost has fully melted from the ground.

If you're unsure whether the frost line has completely thawed, it's best to test the soil with a metal rod or soil probe before installation. Soft, unfrozen soil will allow the Deck Foot Anchor to perform as designed, giving you a secure and lasting foundation.