How To Do Footings For Steel Posts

Step 1

Dig a 24-inch-deep hole 12 inches in diameter. If your post is larger than 6 inches in diameter, make the hole larger — at least twice the diameter of the post.

Step 2

Place gravel 6 inches deep in the bottom of the hole and pack it down. The gravel allows water to drain away from the post.

Step 3

Place the steel post in the hole on top of the gravel and center it. Keep it in position by placing a wood beam on each side. Clamp the two beams together so they squeeze the post between them. Check the post to make sure it's level.

Step 4

Step 5

Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer's directions. Fill the hole with concrete, then fill beyond the top of the hole. Angle the concrete into a mountain shape with a trowel, so the post is sticking through the top. This will help water drain away from the post.

Step 6

Allow the concrete to dry. Remove the wood supports. Recheck the post to verify it is still level and centered. Very small differences in level are acceptable.

Step 7