Do we need footings to widen our top landing while securing a deck over structurally sound steps, or can we use deck blocks for the overhang?
Asked by Bill Payne 
2 months ago
Last Updated: October 28, 2024
We’re thinking about building a deck over these steps and widening the top landing to the right by about 24 inches. If we attach it to the existing steps (which are sturdy), do we need footings for support? Or can we use deck blocks for the part that overhangs? Any other things we should keep in mind? I’ve done a lot of research online, but haven’t found much info on this specific topic. I even searched through the group, but couldn’t find detailed advice on how to go about it.
Depending on where you’re located, up here in the northern plains, they now opt for deck blocks with extra long anchors that go below the frost line. Personally, I see it as a good compromise.
Are you talking about the helical posts, ? Or the Handipier?
I’m not exactly sure what they’re called, . I’ve come across a few projects where they have been utilized.
Make sure to grab 1 or 2 helical posts for extra security. They’re way better than concrete blocks and just as easy to set up.
No worries, Marc! I didn’t know what they were called either. They can be a bit pricey, but definitely worth it to avoid digging down 42 inches. Oh, my mistake, they’re actually called Handipiers and they’re not as expensive as I initially thought.
Those tiles are definitely worth the investment. They’re so sturdy, they won’t sink or heave. I used them to redo my entire front porch, and even with massive snow drifts, they’ve stayed perfectly level for two years now.
Are you referring to the block style or the metal ground anchor style for ?
Described the metal auger bit as a game-changer in construction over the past 25 years, with its unique design of a plate and saddle on top.
All you need is one post for the outer right corner. Attach a ledger board along the house on the right and the left sides will be supported by the existing concrete. Does that make sense?
Do you think that’s based on using 2×8? Our space really only fits 2×6.
Mentioned I would use 2×8 for the framing, and cut it down to fit under the door. Although 2×6 might work for such a small porch, it’s quite small for deck framing.
Wasn’t sure if making that change would compromise the integrity too much. He thought having it on the cement would be helpful. It’s good to know it should. Thank you so much for your assistance. There’s a lot to consider and think about.
What would you use an extra 2 feet for?
It seems like package delivery is mainly the focus.
How about placing a 2×4 on its side in the middle of the top step and extending it across the house to about 24 inches? Then you can fasten 2x6s to the sides to match the height of the 2×4, with a 2×6 across the front and out to 24 inches to support the cantilever. Tied into another 2×6, the 2×4 across the back will provide the structure for decking.
This DIY method involves using a jackhammer to remove the steps, installing ledger boards, and pouring concrete footings.
Thanks Sharon, but we’d rather not remove them. We understand the work involved in closing off the underside of the porch, and we’d prefer not to deal with that.
You can build right on top of them, just remember to leave space for drainage to prevent rotting.
It appears that there won’t be enough space to add fir strips due to the smaller size of the bottom step compared to the top 2.
Was definitely taken into consideration. Thanks for the assistance. I was thinking about using stone pavers, but I realized they slant towards the house and to the right. 😒
Christina, you might want to consider using 1×3 strips attached to concrete 16 inches apart as a base for your composite decking.
I probably should have mentioned before (I *think* I’ve got that part under control), but we plan on expanding the platform even more. This means we’ll have to redo the steps, which is going to be a pain because I’ll have to redo the landscaping too. The current steps don’t meet code requirements because of the screen door.
Is this the front part of the house? If yes, then you’ll have to deal with engineering and permits. If it’s the back part of the house, definitely make use of footings as they provide much better support for the structure.
Here’s a recent project example. The carpenter treated the existing concrete as a footer, which may not meet code as the slab wasn’t below the frost line. It looks good for now, though.
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I must say it does look quite nice.
You’ll definitely regret all of it in three years. I learned my lesson the hard way. Even with treated wood, I had to replace everything this spring due to water damage.
Morris only time will reveal the truth. Good thing the slab has a slope for proper drainage.
I just realized we don’t have enough room for the 4 ft Handipier rods. 🤦🏼♀️
If I’m not mistaken, I think you need footings if the structure is attached to the house. If it’s not attached, then it can be supported by deck blocks.
Meghan, we plan to attach it to the current steps. We need to make sure the ground doesn’t heave and damage the siding, as we have 42-inch footing requirements.
One question, ten different opinions! 😂 Just use some common sense. It’s your project, build it however you like. If code enforcement comes knocking, just follow their instructions. We’ve all learned through trial and error.
Our team is firmly in the camp of asking for forgiveness rather than permission. We won’t be pulling a permit.
I mentioned to my husband that I plan to design it based on my knowledge, and then verify if it can be proven wrong. If it can, I’ll make adjustments.
Your expertise will definitely serve you well. I’ve always relied on my own experiences, whether good or bad, and tend to overprepare for the worst. It’s frustrating to see so many people acting like experts without knowing what they’re talking about.
I was thinking, “Can I really make it extra beefy?” 🤪 We always aim to exceed standards, but I wasn’t certain if that extra 2 feet hanging off would put too much stress on the cement deck blocks. I had to trim down a board and wasn’t sure about the cantilever. I’ve been searching Google for new ideas based on the advice I received here. Every bit of knowledge is valuable. The different responses can be a bit much to handle. I’ll trust my instincts in the end.
Fifteen years ago, I did the same thing. I drove by the old house last year and they’re still holding up. You have enough space to simply place it on the top step. Stick to synthetic decking only. Avoid using any wood. You can find recycled fiberglass 2 by 4’s now. They may be a bit pricey, but in three years you’ll be glad you did.
Morris, I personally wouldn’t rely on composite for an overhang. Keeping a similar footprint sounds like a good idea to me.
I’d recommend avoiding using steps as the main support since they tend to sink over time. Building your own structure over them ensures everything is set and level consistently.