Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - raising a sunken deck
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hugnik
05-07-08, 10:34 AM
I have a deck that 2 of the posts sunk this winter because of the weight of the snow. Any suggestions on how to lift the deck up so that I can put those posts on cement footings? The dirt around the deck is very loose already tried a jack on a piece of wood and that sinks too.
cwbuff
05-07-08, 11:15 AM
Use a half sheet of scrap 3/4" ply or OSB for each jack. Put a 2X12 on top for the jacks to rest on. Jack up the deck to level and remove the old posts.
chandler
05-07-08, 04:37 PM
And dig new footings, pour concrete, let it set, then install your posts using Simpson Strong Tie pier base. You didn't fill out your profile, so we don't know where you live. Footings will be dictated by your local authorities, so contact them.
lefty
05-07-08, 04:58 PM
hugnik,
Welcome to the Forums.
Your deck sunk because you have no footings under the posts (or at least not proper ones).
You're going to be working under the deck while it supported on jacks, and I wouldn't rely on plywood or OSB while that's happening.
Start by digging and pouring footings directly under the beam about half way between your existing posts. If frost is an issue, they need to be deep -- 6" below your frost line. Make the top of the footings about 2' square and embed standoff post bases in them (PBS, CBSQ, or similar), with the top of the concrete being about 6" above grade if possible.. Once the footings have cured, use THOSE to support the jacks, lift the deck and install new posts. Use PB's at the top of each post to connect it to the beam.
Welcome to the Forums.
Your deck sunk because you have no footings under the posts (or at least not proper ones).
You're going to be working under the deck while it supported on jacks, and I wouldn't rely on plywood or OSB while that's happening.
Start by digging and pouring footings directly under the beam about half way between your existing posts. If frost is an issue, they need to be deep -- 6" below your frost line. Make the top of the footings about 2' square and embed standoff post bases in them (PBS, CBSQ, or similar), with the top of the concrete being about 6" above grade if possible.. Once the footings have cured, use THOSE to support the jacks, lift the deck and install new posts. Use PB's at the top of each post to connect it to the beam.