Do I have to wait for the wood to dry and shrink before working with it?
#1
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Do I have to wait for the wood to dry and shrink before working with it?
Specifically the wood I'd be using for the posts. I plan on placing the posts in the hole and pouring concrete all around it. However I fear that if I do this right when the lumber is shipped to me, that after time, the lumber will have shrunk and will not be completely surrounded by concrete any more. If that makes any sense.
If I do have to wait, how long?
** Using pressure treated lumber
If I do have to wait, how long?
** Using pressure treated lumber
#4
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I doubt it would shrink enough for it to be an issue but most of us frown on embedding deck posts in concrete. It's better to pour a footer and then secure the post to the concrete above ground. The posts will last longer that way.
#9
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Concrete attracts and holds moisture which is the main reason you are always supposed to use PT wood when there is direct contact with masonry. Embedding the post doesn't allow the air to help dry the post back out.
#10
What Marksr has said. Will your local code entity require you to use footings, or can you make the deck free standing and use dek blocks for support? Others on the forum have advocated it is an "ok" thing to do up north, but I have my reservations. Bottom line is the wood should be above grade and held in place using dek blocks or Simpson Strongtie post bases embedded in your footings.
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Yup local code requires footings at least 48 inch deep with a 6 inch extrusion above grade. So I don't think I can get away with deck blocks. Well if it's strongly encouraged to avoid embedding the post in concrete I guess it will save me a few bucks. 3 inches of wood post is fine though right? As long as it's above grade.