Saturday 15 March 2014

Tips On Installing Concrete Piers

Posted by Unknown at 13:05
By Luisa Sharpe


Backyard decks are essential as they can boost the beauty and the living space of your home. When constructing these structures, people should know and follow various steps one of which is installing foundation piers. Even though there are many materials that can be used to construct a pier, constructors usually prefer concrete as it is resistant to water, strong and durable. Installing concrete piers can be done through various steps.

One of the main steps to prepare for the installation of a pier is through excavating the ground where such structures would be installed. The constructor should dig a trench, which is wider than the pier footings and not less than 12 inches deep than the frost line. Afterwards, you should then place the waxed pier fiber tubes into firm plastic footings. The purpose of the footings is to ensure that the pier does not sink into the ground.

You also need to place the footings and tubes to the trench. The setting work should be done with much care to reduce the problems that can be caused by improper setting. You also need to check the footing building specifications to know if they are in line with the ones specified in your area.

In order to strengthen the structure in position, the trench should be filled by use of stone debris. You also have to inspect the footing to know if they are in line with the structure. The main reason for checking the pier for alignment is to avoid the potential problems, which can be caused by the pier and the footings not lying on the same level.

The next step is placing another footing over the polished fiber tubes. The main purpose of this footing is to allow for the passage of the concrete into such tubes when you pour it. While this footing can be created from different materials, concrete-based materials would offer better strength and durability.

The other essential step is the pouring of the concrete-based components into the tubes. It is advisable that when pouring the material, you keep mixing the materials after every 8 to 10 inches with a shovel to reduce the air that may have accumulated in such tubes. When you fill the tubes completely, you will then have to remove the footing and level the material using a trowel.

Another great step is to install the metal brackets or rebar that would be used to connect the pier and the deck. You would also need to give the structure enough time to dry and set. After your pier is dry and set, it is advisable to use a utility knife to cut the tubing in the pier.

There are various steps in constructing a pier, which people should know of. The amount of work required in each step varies depending on the materials used. As a result, you should make sure you know how each step should be handled and the tools to be used. By doing this, you can enjoy numerous benefits since you would not need to worry of getting poor results due to using the wrong tools and techniques.




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