[flexcompus]

I am building a deck that is 12' x 28' x 4' in height, i am planning on using concrete piers, a friend recommended i use a Bigfoot bell for the sonotube footing. Has anybody used these before, are they something you can install without being a professional.

 

[skymaster]

Not having used them but from info I have read and videos I have watched I believe you should have no problems. As long as you dig to the correct depth, just a wider hole set em, set all your tubes at a higher than needed height, then use a laser or level line to set the proper height, cut em all, back the truck up and pour em as monolithic pour, set anchors, give em about 48 hrs, let er rip!:thumbup:

 

[Termite]

I've seen them installed a number of times and am not all that impressed. If you don't have cohesive soils and digging a hole that doesn't just collapse is complicated then they can be a benefit. If local requirements require a belled pier for some reason then they can be a benefit. Otherwise do yourself a favor and just dig the appropriate size hole and use some sonotube to form it above grade level.

Personally I think they're generally a waste of money unless specific circumstances dictate their use.

 

[skymaster]

OK First; LISTEN TO THE TERMITE :}:}:}:} SECOND disreagrd what I said at first, as stated it was an opinion and as usual Termite was right and me wrong. Me bad LOL LOL
Third Did I say Listen to the Termite?
:}:}:}:}:}

 

[flexcompus]

actually Skymaster after doing some more research and watching a video on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-Hf-x_IXP8&feature=PlayList&p=F3DE6D31B2E150C5&index=0&playnext=1, this looks like it is exactly what i need. Thanks for your advice.

 

[Scuba_Dave]

I considered them, but had no reason to use them
It's a BIG hole to dig
Then you have to compact the soil back down

 

[Willie T]

Well, Bigfoots DO make good concrete funnels for sonotubes when pouring.