Top 10 Reasons to Choose FootingPad Over Concrete for Deck Building
Building a deck requires careful consideration of the foundation, as it plays a critical role in the structure's stability and longevity. Traditionally, concrete footings have been the go-to choice, but an innovative alternative has emerged: FootingPad. This engineered composite footing system offers numerous advantages over traditional concrete footings. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 reasons why deck builders should consider using FootingPad instead of concrete. From versatility and code compliance to ease of installation and environmental benefits, FootingPad proves to be a superior option for deck construction.
1) Compatibility with Various Post Types: FootingPad is highly versatile and compatible with different post types, including treated wood posts, laminated columns, pre-cast, and poured concrete columns. Whether you prefer the natural aesthetics of wood or the durability of concrete, FootingPad can accommodate your choice, offering flexibility in design and construction.
2) Code Compliance and Certification: FootingPad post foundations have undergone independent testing and certification by the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES). They are proven to be a code-compliant alternative to concrete footings, ensuring that your deck meets the necessary building regulations. Although some building inspectors may not be familiar with FootingPad, they generally accept ICC-ES Evaluation Reports as documentation of code compliance. It is advisable to provide a hard copy of the ICC-ES Evaluation Report 2147 to your inspector for reference and clarification.
3) Exceptional Strength and Load Capacity: FootingPad footings are engineered using a specially formulated, fiber-reinforced composite that provides exceptional strength. These footings are designed to meet or exceed the load capacity of concrete footings, ensuring a secure and stable foundation for your deck. In fact, FootingPad has been tested to support over three times the maximum allowable load specified by building codes, making it a reliable and robust alternative to concrete footings.
4) Lightweight and Easy to Handle: One of the notable advantages of FootingPad is its lightweight nature. Unlike cumbersome concrete footings, FootingPad can be easily transported, maneuvered, and installed. The reduced weight simplifies the construction process, saving time and effort during deck building. Additionally, the lightweight design eliminates the need for heavy machinery, reducing the overall complexity and cost of the project.
5) Environmental Friendliness: FootingPad is an environmentally friendly choice for deck builders. The footings are made from a specially formulated composite material that dramatically reduces the energy used during manufacturing compared to concrete. Unlike concrete, there is no scrap in the production process, and less fuel is required for transportation. By choosing FootingPad, you are making a sustainable choice that minimizes the ecological impact of your construction project.
6) Suitable for Various Structures: FootingPad can be used as a support footing for various post-supported structures, including decks, gazebos, porches, and post frame buildings such as pole barns. It is suitable for both Type V construction under the International Building Code (IBC) and any construction under the International Residential Code (IRC). Whether you're constructing a small residential deck or a larger-scale project, FootingPad provides a reliable and efficient foundation solution.
7) Sizing and Installation Convenience: Determining the appropriate footing size for your deck is crucial. FootingPad provides a helpful sizing chart, simple sizing formula, and sizing calculator to ensure you choose the correct footing size for your application. The installation process is straightforward and can be completed in six simple steps. No concrete is required, saving you time and eliminating the need for specialized equipment.
8) Durability and Longevity: FootingPad's composite material is designed to resist decay, insects, and weathering, ensuring the longevity of your deck's foundation. Unlike traditional concrete footings that can crack and deteriorate over time, FootingPad's durability contributes to the overall lifespan of your deck. This means less maintenance and replacement, ultimately saving you money and effort in the long run.
9) Frost and Freeze Resistance: In regions where frost and freeze-thaw cycles are a concern, FootingPad provides a reliable solution. The composite material used in FootingPad is less susceptible to damage caused by freezing and thawing compared to concrete. This resistance to frost-related issues helps maintain the structural integrity of your deck even in challenging climates.
10) Time-Efficient Installation: Installing concrete footings can be a time-consuming process, involving digging holes, pouring concrete, waiting for it to cure, and ensuring proper alignment. FootingPad streamlines this process significantly. With its simple installation steps, you can save a substantial amount of time during construction. The absence of curing time means you can proceed with building the deck immediately after installation, minimizing project timelines.
Choosing FootingPad over traditional concrete footings for your deck construction offers a range of compelling advantages that cater to both practicality and sustainability. Its compatibility with various post types, code compliance, exceptional strength, and load capacity, as well as its lightweight and environmentally friendly attributes, make FootingPad an excellent choice. The convenience of sizing, ease of installation, durability, frost resistance, and time efficiency further solidify its position as a superior footing system. By embracing FootingPad, you're embracing innovation that enhances your deck's stability, durability, and overall quality while minimizing the environmental impact of your construction project. It's a smart choice for the present and a sustainable investment for the future of your outdoor space.
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