Category: Deck Planning & Budgeting

Yep, that’s a hole. It’s also one of the most important parts of the whole deck.

Every deck we build starts with its foundation, and on most decks that means piers: concrete footings set into holes like this one. Each pier carries its share of the deck’s weight, plus the furniture and everyone standing on it, down into the ground.

Code says a pier like this has to be at least 14 inches wide and 36 inches deep. We dug this one 18 inches wide and 36 inches deep.

Why go bigger than the minimum? It all comes down to how the weight is spread out. If the piers aren’t sized for the deck they’re holding up, the deck can start to sag. And since most decks are attached to the house, a sagging deck can end up damaging the house too.

Footings are also the part of a deck you never see again once it’s built. That’s exactly why we don’t cut corners on them. We stay up to date on code and size every footing for the deck it’s carrying, so we go into every job without any concerns about what’s underneath.

Planning a new deck, or wondering what’s holding up the one you have? Give us a call at (816) 656-1874 or request a free quote.

At Patriot Deck Co., every project starts with a conversation, not a blueprint. Recently, we had the pleasure of working with a homeowner who initially envisioned a 400-square-foot deck. But instead of simply building what was requested, we took the time to understand how the space would actually be used. What followed wasn’t just a redesign. It was a complete shift in perspective.

By walking through their goals, priorities, and how they planned to enjoy the space, we introduced an alternative: a thoughtfully designed 200-square-foot deck that delivered everything they wanted, while saving them thousands. Through detailed visual tools and collaborative planning, we helped them clearly see how “less” could actually be “more.” It’s not about size. It’s about purpose, flow, and creating a space that truly fits your lifestyle.

What stood out most in this experience wasn’t just the final design. It was the trust built along the way. Like the kind words shared in a recent 5-star review, we pride ourselves on listening, guiding, and sometimes even encouraging clients to pause and think before moving forward. Because at the end of the day, our mission isn’t just to build decks. It’s to help you discover the right one for you, and then bring it to life when the time is right.

He took the time to walk us through every aspect of what to expect and what he can provide. The tools he used to show us what our deck would look like were most certainly far beyond what others can provide.

Tanner S., 5-star Google review

Planning a deck and not sure how big it needs to be? Call us at (816) 656-1874 or request a free quote, and we’ll help you find the size and design that fit how you’ll actually use it.