How To Attach 4x4 Post To Deck Block
Most states now require a specific bolted connection where deck rail posts attach to the floor frame with reinforcement for joists and blocking.
How to attach 4x4 post to deck block. Codes are getting tougher on outdoor decks. To attach the porch swing eye bolts i drilled two 1 2 holes into the center of the 2x4 base truss and through the 1 board below the base each hole being 17 from the side of the house and the side of the post support. This is a deck i built in ledyard connecticut and the important part i would like to point out is the blocking under the rails. Deck blocks stand in for the posts or provide a foundation for a post.
The main difficulty in using deck blocks with posts is that the indentation for the posts. They should be laid out similarly to deck posts with the caveat that the spacing should be a little closer together around five feet or so beneath the beams. A third option for attaching a post to solid concrete or concrete block is side mounting which works well on an elevated masonry base such as steps or a raised concrete porch. Also if you drop set the framing into the groove the underside of the joist is still 5 6 above grade.
However concrete deck blocks can be used without restriction for a freestanding deck that s not attached to your house. However most concrete deck blocks can only hold 4x4 posts not 6x6s and they have no lateral strength at the base of the post. Some blocks have a hole in the center. So you may want to build a deck that is lower to the ground.
Locate one bracket and hole 2 inches down from the top of the joist and the other bracket and hole 21 2 inches down. Across this span is a 1 board below the 2x4 truss base used to attach the vinyl bead board ceiling. Rails often can be real solid. A good rule of thumb when side mounting is to attach at least one third of the post below the top level of the concrete.
Align one set of blocks with the rim joist of the narrow deck section.