Hi,
Sure will appreciate your expertise. I have learned a good bit already from previous posts on similar subject.
I have a fairly new (4-5 yrs) deck. It replaced an older deck which was in really bad shape. The new deck used the old support posts from the previous deck. Sadly, the condition of these posts was not checked very well. As I check below the ground level, I am noticing various degrees of rot / sponginess in the posts. I know I need to replace them. The deck overhangs a slope. The tallest posts are 10-12 ft high.
Overall, the posts still seem quite solid still - so I feel I have some time to get this done. But I think the sooner the better.
I have 3 parts to my questions.
1)Do I have the sequence down right? The job will entail: jacking in a temporary support post and securing it. Removing the existing post. Digging out the footer. Pouring new footer. Attaching new post and securing it. Removing temporary support post.2)New footers. What is the best strategy here? Should I simply sink the new post into concrete (ensuring that there is no below ground exposed wood) or should the footer come above ground and have the new post attach to it there?
3) Temporary measures. I think I have time to do this job based on condition of the posts (and I will need it based on how long it takes to find willing/capable person and then the typical failure to meet project timeline, etc). In the meanwhile, would it be smart for me to dig down to where each post goes into the footer and pour some redi-mix concrete in there. Thinking it will provide some level of protection to the below ground post and slow down further damage until the posts are permanently replaced. Any other ideas here would be appreciated.Thanks. I will be most grateful for any advice or ideas.
Russ