Grainy soils with sand or gravel do not retain a lot of moisture compared to clay soil. Grainy soil is the best type for burying concrete pier blocks. This is because some types of soil can hold a concrete pier block in place better compared to other soils. However, you can reduce the chances of your structure moving by building it on solid ground.Īs we mentioned before, the type of soil in which you put the concrete pier blocks should be considered when preparing holes for the blocks. Structural foundations can move due to soil erosion, extreme weather, or other natural causes. This will help prevent the materials from moving too much due to a lack of stability. You need to make sure that the object is securely in place. Secure the concrete pier block in the ground by filling up the surrounding space with soil. Once you have figured out the correct depth for the concrete pier block, you can prepare the area by digging the holes in which the concrete blocks will be installed. You should contact your local building authorities to find out how deep concrete pier blocks should be buried in your area. The type of structure, the type of soil, and the climate in your location should all be considered when digging holes for concrete pier blocks. Various factors can influence the actual measurement that you should use when burying a concrete pier block. It is important to note that this depth level for burying concrete pier blocks is also not fixed. Undisturbed soil refers to soil that has not been excavated. The block should be buried at least 12 inches under undisturbed soil. To use a concrete pier block, you will need to dig holes where the blocks will be situated. This means that the method to follow when using a concrete pier block is similar to using a concrete deck block. Once you have figured out how many concrete pier blocks you will use, you can plan where each will sit under the structure.Īs we mentioned earlier, concrete pier blocks with wood caps are similar to concrete deck blocks. Not all concrete pier blocks have the same size and degree of sturdiness, so you should consider all of these variables when planning out how many pier blocks you will need. The distance will change depending on the weight of the deck, the function of the structure, and how much weight your pier blocks can support. It is important to note that four to six feet between each concrete pier block is not a fixed distance. From this measurement, distribute the pier blocks four to six feet apart. If you are building a deck, refer to the overall length and width of the walking surface. The number of pier blocks you will use depends on your project. The size and weight of both materials are different, but they have the same function.īelow is a simple guide you can refer to when using a concrete pier block with a wood cap. While concrete pier blocks are also precast, they are much lighter and can be easily used in small home projects. However, a precast concrete pier block is larger and heavier. A precast concrete pier is a construction element that has the same function as a concrete pier block. The difference between the two materials is that concrete deck blocks do not have a wood cap.Ĭoncrete pier blocks should not be confused with precast concrete piers. Both materials serve the same function to support a standing structure.Ĭoncrete pier blocks with wood caps and concrete deck blocks are lugs that hold up posts for either a deck or a patio cover. How Do I Use Concrete Pier Blocks With Wood Caps?Ĭoncrete pier blocks with wood caps are similar to concrete deck blocks. Continue reading as we discuss all the essential information you will need when using concrete pier blocks with wood caps in your building project. It depends on the project you are working on.
There are a number of ways you can use a concrete pier block with wood caps.