Do you need to hide unattractive concrete deck footings? Homeowners often face the dilemma of deciding how to make these pesky eyesores inconspicuous without having to demolish existing structures. Luckily, there are a handful of ways that you can effectively conceal concrete deck footings and keep your home looking polished.
In this post on how to hide concrete deck footings, we’ll discuss step-by-step instructions on how to do just that — from using plants or gravel as an easy camouflage technique, all the way up to constructing creative enclosures utilizing materials like wood lattice or decorative stone walls. Keep reading for some helpful tips on making those unsightly fixtures disappear!
Simple Step-by-step Instructions on How to Hide Concrete Deck Footings
Step 1: Put in Some Plants
A great way to hide concrete deck footings is with a variety of foliage. Place large potted plants around the area, or create a flower bed with taller, more vibrant flowers and plants to distract from the view of the concrete. Before choosing plants, take into account the amount of sunlight that hits the area.
Some plants require more light than others, so opt for a variety that suits the footings’ environment. It will also help to create a more aesthetically pleasing design. If your yard has a slope, try planting tall grasses or shrubs to help break up the uniform look of the concrete.
Step 2: Cover it in Gravel
If you want an even easier solution, consider covering the area with gravel. You can choose any kind of material depending on your preference — from pea gravel to larger stones — and make sure that it’s secured against wind and rain. It’s also important to make sure that the gravel is thick enough to cover the concrete footings completely.
If done correctly, you won’t even be able to tell that the footings are there! If you’re worried about weeds, throw down a layer of landscaping fabric before laying the gravel.
Step 3: Build a Wooden Lattice Fence
For something more permanent, construct a wooden lattice fence around the footings to disguise their appearance. This is especially effective when used in combination with other techniques like planting shrubs or vines along the fence for added texture and color.
It’s important that you use treated lumber and galvanized fasteners, so ensure that the materials are suitable for outdoor use. Once built, stain or paint the fence to match your home’s aesthetic.
Step 4: Create a Rock Wall
If you’re willing to invest more time and money into the project, rock walls are a great way to hide concrete deck footings. Not only do they look elegant and timeless, but you can also customize them with stones of varying sizes and colors for an even more attractive final result.
But before you begin building, make sure to secure a permit from your local government. Constructing rock walls can be tricky so it’s best to hire a professional if you’re unsure of the process. Although it’s more costly than some of the other options, a rock wall will provide you with a more durable and attractive solution to hiding concrete deck footings.
Step 5: Use Decorative Stones
Another option is to use decorative stones in place of plain concrete. This technique is especially useful if you have existing footings that are crumbling or need repair. You can choose from a variety of materials such as river rocks, artificial turf stone, slate tiles, etc.,
Depending on your desired aesthetic. If you have an existing wooden fence, consider adding decorative stone veneers to help further blend the footings with your home’s decor. This option is fairly inexpensive and can add a unique touch to your outdoor living space.
Step 6: Install Artificial Turf
Lastly, artificial turf is a great way to hide concrete deck footings without having to go through the labor of constructing an enclosure. It’s also low maintenance and will last for years if cared for properly.
If you don’t want to invest in an entire turf installation, consider opting for a smaller section of turf around the footings. This will help the area blend in with your existing landscape and will be less noticeable.
Step 7: Clean Up
Once you’ve chosen and implemented your desired technique, make sure to clean up the area. Remove any leftover debris or debris that may have been caused by your new enclosure.
If you’ve planted shrubs or trees, be sure to water them regularly so they can get established in their new home. With these few simple steps, you can easily hide your concrete deck footings and enjoy a beautiful outdoor living space! This is a great way to spruce up your space without breaking the bank.
Step 8: Seal and Protect
Finally, seal and protect the area to ensure that it lasts for years to come. You can use products like concrete sealant or anti-slip paints to protect your enclosure from weather damage and keep it looking great. It’s also a good idea to apply a sealant to the concrete footings so they don’t become brittle or cracked. With a little bit of effort and care, you can easily hide your concrete footings and ensure that they last for many years to come.
Step 9: Maintenance
Finally, don’t forget to keep up with regular maintenance of your enclosure. This means cleaning it regularly and sealing any cracks or crevices to keep it looking its best. If you’re using artificial turf, be sure to mow and fertilize it regularly.
Regular maintenance will ensure that your enclosure looks great for years to come! It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for any signs of wear or damage so you can address them as soon as possible.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Creation
Once you’ve finished all the steps, admire the transformation and enjoy your new outdoor space! With these simple instructions on how to hide concrete deck footings, you can have a beautiful backyard escape without any unsightly eyesores.
Always remember to check with your local government for any permits or other regulations you need to follow before starting the project. This will ensure that your hard work complies with laws and regulations. You can also hire a professional if you’re unsure of the process. It’s worth the money to have peace of mind that your project is completed correctly.
Do You Need to Use Professionals?
While these steps can be followed to hide concrete deck footings on your own, it may be wise to consult a professional if you have any questions or need help. A professional can advise you on the best materials and techniques to use, as well as how to properly care for your enclosure once it’s installed. This will ensure that your deck footings remain hidden and look great for years to come.
How Much Will It Cost?
The cost of hiding concrete deck footings will vary depending on the materials you choose and the complexity of the job. However, with careful planning and proper preparation, it’s possible to complete this project without breaking the bank.
It’s important to remember that the cost of hiring a professional may be worth it in the long run, as they will be able to guarantee the quality of the job and will save you time and money in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Are the Best Materials to Use for Hiding Concrete Deck Footings?
A: The best materials will depend on your desired aesthetic and budget. Popular options include wood lattice, rock walls, decorative stones, and artificial turf.
Q: Can I Use My Own Materials?
A: Yes! You can use your own materials or purchase them from a supplier. Just make sure to research each material carefully in order to ensure you’re getting the best quality for your money.
Q: How Do I Seal and Protect My Enclosure?
A: The best way to protect your enclosure is by using products like concrete sealant or anti-slip paint. This will help protect it from weather damage and keep it looking great for years to come.
Q: What Is the Cost of Hiding Concrete Deck Footings?
A: The cost will vary depending on the materials used and the complexity of the job. However, with careful planning and proper preparation, it is possible to complete this project without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Properly concealing your concrete deck footings not only makes your property look neater but can also help down the line should you ever want to exchange or change up certain aspects of your new deck. By following these easy steps on how to hide concrete deck footings, you will be able to complete this task with ease and confidence.
It’s important to note that it is not suggested that you rely on dirt and ground cover as a permanent solution, as unpredictable weather patterns can still lead to unwanted dirt buildup around the footings and unexpected maintenance requirements in the future.
With a proper concealment plan and maintenance regimen in place, however, you will be sure to have a lasting structure that adds perfect character and charm to your landscape!