Bracing Helical-Pile Decks

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Q. Can helical piles be used on a freestanding deck? How do you brace them for lateral stability?

A. Greg DiBernardo, author of “Helical Pile Deck Foundations” (May/June 2012), responds: There are several ways to brace freestanding helical-pile decks. Diagonal 2×4 cross-bracing can be fastened below the joists, or the helical piles can be cross braced using galvanized steel angle welded to the posts. Most times, though, 6×6 or 4×4 posts are used on top of the piles, so traditional “Y” bracing can be used, too.

Greg DiBernardo owns Bergen Decks and is a partner in Techno Metal Post of Northern New Jersey, in Waldwick, N.J.

About the Author

Greg DiBernardo

“Passionate” is the best word that can be used to describe Greg DiBernardo. His professional world revolves around constructing beautiful outdoor spaces for his clients using cutting edge materials and methods that will stand the test of time.Greg is a nationally recognized figure in the deck building industry. He’s a regular contributor to the industry’s trade publication, Professional Deck Builder magazine, writing feature articles that dictate the deck and outdoor industry’s best practices for design, construction and management. He’s also a Contributing Editor for Tools of the Trade magazine and a frequent author for The Journal of Light Construction and Fine Home Building.He has been a presenter and speaker for the National Association of Remodelers (NARI) and large building supply companies on advanced deck building and business topics.A deck and construction industry insider, Greg’s notoriety affords him close personal connections with major industry manufacturers assisting them with product development, design and testing of new and existing building materials. Greg has also made TV appearances on the The Today Show, DIY Network, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, House Smarts, and the Food Network. He resides in Canton, GA with his wife and daughter.

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