Spacing Dek-Block® Piers

There are two spacing requirements for the Dek-Block® pier. The spacing along the support board and the spacing from support board to support board. The maximum spacing between blocks along the support board is 5 ft. from center to center. The spacing of the support board is dependent upon the type of surface/decking material that will be used.

Spacing Along Support Boards

8', 10' and 12' Support Boards

Place one Dek-Block® pier 12 inches in from each end of the support board, then center the third.

14', and 16' Support Boards

Place one Dek-Block® pier 12 inches in from each end of the support board, then evenly space the remaining two Dek-Block® piers.

When Two or More Support Boards
are Joined End-to-End

Place one Dek-Block® pier 12 inches in from the end of each support board. Next, place one Dek-Block® pier under the connection of the two support boards. Then, depending on the length of the support boards, evenly space one or two more Dek-Block® piers. Secure a Metal Truss Plate on both sides of the connecting support boards.

Support Board Spacing

Surface Material:
2"x6" Treated Surface Boards

When using 2"x6" surface boards, the maximum spacing from row to row is 30 inches on center.
45 Degree decking? Click here

Surface Material:
5/4"x6" and Composite Surface Boards

When using 5/4"x6" or composite surface boards, the maximum spacing from row to row is 16 inches on center.

The reduced span is to account for the decrease in strength of the thinner surface materials.

Summing Up Spacing

The maximum distance between any two piers along the support board should not exceed 5 ft.

Using 2"x6" surface boards:
The maximum distance between the support boards should not exceed 30 inches.

Using 5/4"x6" surface boards:
The maximum distance between the support boards should not exceed 16 inches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are so many more Dek-Block® piers required when using 5/4 treated or composite decking?

Can I use 2"x8" or 2"x10" support boards?

Can I use 2"x4" support boards?

Can I do anything to reduce the number of Dek-Block® piers?

What is a metal truss plate?

Deckman's Tip

Metal truss plates can be substituted with a piece of 2"x6" or 2"x4" scrap. Place a 12 inch piece of scrap lumber on both sides of the connecting support boards and secure with deck screws.