Pylon Footings vs. Traditional Concrete Footings: Which is Best for Your Deck?

When planning a deck build, one of the most crucial decisions involves choosing the right type of footing to support the structure. At Ogden Deck Depot, we provide high-quality decking materials and expert advice to ensure your deck is built to last. Two common foundation options are pylon footings and traditional concrete footings. Each has its advantages and is suited for different applications. Let’s compare them to help you make the best decision for your project.

​Pylon Footings
​Pylon footings, often referred to as helical piers or screw piles, are steel shafts with helical plates that are driven deep into the ground using specialized equipment. This modern alternative to concrete footings has gained popularity for its efficiency and load-bearing capacity.

Pros of Pylon Footings:

• Faster Installation – Pylons can be installed quickly, often in a matter of hours, with minimal site disruption.
• Stronger Support – They reach deep into the soil, bypassing weaker layers and providing exceptional load-bearing capacity.
• Minimal Excavation – Unlike concrete footings, there is no need for extensive digging, making them ideal for areas with poor soil conditions.
• Weather Independence – Can be installed in various weather conditions, including frozen ground.
• Eco-Friendly – No need for heavy cement use, reducing environmental impact.

Cons of Pylon Footings:

• Higher Initial Cost – The materials and specialized installation equipment may cost more upfront.
• Professional Installation Required – Unlike concrete footings, which can be DIY-friendly, pylon footings require trained professionals.

Traditional Concrete Footings
Concrete footings have been the industry standard for decades, consisting of a concrete base poured into an excavated hole with a post anchor set into it. They provide stability and durability but require more time and effort to install.


Pros of Traditional Concrete Footings:

• Cost-Effective – Concrete is widely available and often cheaper than pylon footings.
• Proven Durability – When properly installed, concrete footings can last for decades without issue.
• DIY-Friendly – Homeowners with basic construction skills can install them without specialized equipment.

Cons of Traditional Concrete Footings:

• Time-Consuming Installation – Requires excavation, formwork, and curing time, which can delay your project.
• Affected by Weather Conditions – Cannot be poured in freezing temperatures without special considerations.
• Soil Dependence – If soil shifts over time, concrete footings can crack or become unstable.

Which Footing Type is Right for You?
The choice between pylon footings and traditional concrete footings depends on your specific project needs:

• If you need a fast and strong solution with minimal ground disturbance, pylon footings are the best option.
• If you are looking for a cost-effective and DIY-friendly approach, traditional concrete footings may be ideal.
• For areas with unstable soil conditions, pylon footings offer superior load-bearing support.

At Ogden Deck Depot (190 W 33rd Street #160, Ogden, Utah, 84401), we supply high-quality decking materials to support any foundation type you choose. Have questions about footings or need expert recommendations? Call us at (435) 222-5819, and let’s build something strong together!