Hello All!
I’m adding a deck to a new house that was built on a sidehill composed mosty of rock. I’ve got to figure a way to tie the posts via footers into the rock. My initial idea was to drill out the rock with a roto hammer and use rebar anchored with epoxy and create forms in which I’d pour my concrete.
The other dilemma is this; One of my posts needs to be located around the general vicinity of a dry stacked retaining wall consisting of large boulders. Is there a load bearing issue involved with this. I’d rather tie into the wall vs. set footing into the backfill, in that I’m concerned with settleing and heave. ???
Any ideas would be great!
Whitefish, MT
Replies
You didn't mention the seasonal frost depth which will affect heaving if you're not on bedrock. But for where the footing rests on bedrock, use rebar if the face is not horizontal. I'd skip the expoxy, just drill a 1/2" hole and pound in a section of #4 rebar which will friction-fit that size hole nicely.
You need to talk to your local Building Official, if applicable.
I was building a free-standing porch last year next to a rubblestone foundation. Two feet down I hit a monster rock that was part of the foundation. I wanted to tie into the rock, the BI said "No way." I spent two hours with a Bosch breaker chipping away at the rock so I could get a pier past it.
Different localities have different interpretations of the code, and best building practices. You need to find out what is acceptable in your area.
"I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul." Invictus, by Henley.