What Type of Concrete to Use for Deck Footings?

There are many people who assume that concrete is just concrete and will work for all types of applications. Unfortunately, however, this is simply not true. Different types of concrete mixes are required for various types of construction.

With that in mind, let us take a look at what sort of concrete you are going to need when trying to secure your deck footing in Chicago.

Check the Strength

As you search around Deck Footing Twin Cities for the right type of concrete, many providers will assure you that their brand is the best for the job and that you should buy from them. Sometimes they may be right but what you really want to focus on is not the brand so much as the strength of the concrete.

Ensure that whichever bag of premixed concrete you buy, it specifies that it has 5,000 psi. This is the type of concrete you need.

Make Your Own

You can also attempt to make your own concrete mix though this is only recommendable if you really know what you are doing. The mix for this would be 1-part cement powder, 2 parts sand, and 3 parts gravel.

When pouring this type of concrete, make sure that you pour at 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit and consolidate it with something like a shovel or piece of metal to remove any unwanted air pockets. As you place it down it should have roughly the same width as it does height and it should be allowed to be set thoroughly before testing it.