Installing a deck often feels like a race against the clock—and the weather. Traditionally, the most grueling part of the project isn’t the framing; it’s the “concrete day.” Digging deep holes, hauling 80-pound bags, and waiting days for a cure is back-breaking labor.
But what if you could skip the mixer entirely? Whether you are a weekend warrior or a professional contractor, EZ-CRETE has a precast solution designed to get you building the same day you dig.
The Precast Revolution: Why Skip the Mixer?
Traditional deck footings require a “wet” process: you dig, mix, pour, and pray it doesn’t rain. EZ-CRETE changes the math with precast concrete solutions: EZ-PIER & EZ-TUBE.
- Instant Loading: There is no 24–48 hour cure time; you can start framing as soon as the pier is backfilled.
- Zero Mess: No dusty bags, no leftover sludge, and no heavy machinery rentals for mixing.
- Guaranteed Strength: Every component is manufactured in a controlled environment to ensure maximum PSI and structural integrity.
Choosing Your Foundation: EZ-TUBE vs. EZ-PIER
While both systems eliminate the need to mix concrete, they serve different project scales and equipment capabilities.
1. EZ-TUBE: The DIY Champion: The EZ-TUBE Pier Footing System is the ultimate solution for homeowners and DIYers. It is designed to be manageable without heavy machinery.
- Stackable Design: The system consists of a 22-inch diameter base and individual 12-inch tall “upper tubes” that stack to reach your required depth.
- Manageable Weight: Each EZ-TUBE upper weighs approximately 70 lbs, making them easy to move and set by hand.
- ICC Certified: Peace of mind comes standard. The EZ-TUBE system is ICC-ES certified (ESR-5035), meaning it is evaluated for compliance with the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC).
- Versatile: It supports both gravity and uplift loads for wood deck posts.
2. EZ-PIER: For High-Production Pros: For larger, more industrial-scale deck projects, the EZ-PIER is the go-to. Unlike the stackable EZ-TUBE, the EZ-PIER is a massive, monolithic precast unit.
- Industrial Strength: These units are built for heavy-duty structural loads.
- Equipment Required: Because a single EZ-PIER can weigh upwards of 750 lbs, these are best suited for jobsites where forklifts, skid steers, or other lifting equipment are already present.
- Efficiency at Scale: While heavy, they allow pros to drop a complete, high-strength footing into a hole in seconds, drastically speeding up commercial or large-scale residential builds.
How to Install Your Precast Concrete Footing
1. Excavation: Mark your post locations and dig below the local frost line. For the EZ-TUBE system, ensure the bottom of the hole is wide enough to accommodate the 22-inch diameter base.
2. Base Preparation: A solid foundation starts with a level surface. Add a few inches of crushed stone or compacted gravel to the bottom of the hole and ensure the soil is well-compacted.
3. Setting and Stacking
- For EZ-TUBE: Place the base, then stack the tubes until you reach the desired height. Secure the stack using the galvanized 1/2-13 threaded rod and hardware.
- For EZ-PIER: Use your machinery to lower the pier into the hole, ensuring it is level and plumb.
4. Backfill and Build: Backfill the hole with soil, compacting every 6 inches to ensure maximum stability. Once backfilled, you are ready to attach your post brackets and start framing—no drying time required!
Ready to Plan Your Build?
Stop guessing how much concrete you need to haul. Whether you’re a homeowner building a backyard sanctuary with EZ-TUBE or a contractor using the EZ-PIER for an industrial build, we’ve made the planning phase just as easy as the installation.
Try the EZ-CRETE Footing Calculator
Input your project details and instantly figure out exactly how many EZ-PIER or EZ-TUBE piers you need to get the job done right. Save time, and get your next project off the ground in record time!
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