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Deck post base and column before framing checklist

A post and column checklist for confirming cured and undamaged footings or piers, correct post-base model, anchor embedment and corrosion compatibility, required standoff above concrete or grade, post species, treatment, grade, size and end treatment, plumb and bearing, caps and beam connection, temporary bracing, splice prohibition or approved splice detail, protection from water and soil, porch-column enclosure ventilation and complete photographs before beams, skirting or finishes reduce access.

6 items to check

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Footing or pier is located, cured, intact and at the required elevation

Critical item

Posts should start from an accepted foundation.

Base, anchor and fasteners are the specified system with compatible corrosion protection

Critical item

Connector substitutions can change capacity and durability.

Wood is separated from soil, standing water and concrete as detailed

Critical item

End grain and untreated surfaces should not remain wet.

Post size, species, grade, treatment, orientation and condition match design

Critical item

Cracked, notched or undersized posts can interrupt the load path.

Post-to-beam bearing, cap and fasteners match the approved detail

Critical item

Beams should bear directly or use an approved connector rather than side bolts alone.

Temporary and permanent bracing prevents movement before loads are added

Critical item

Tall posts and incomplete frames need stability.

Use after foundations are ready and before posts carry permanent framing loads. Do not enter unsupported excavations, work below suspended framing, climb incomplete structures, load unbraced decks, remove shoring or test guards by hazardous body loading. Structural changes, ledgers, stairs, guards, electrical work and elevated porches require appropriate design, permits and qualified construction.

Reference standards

  • Locally adopted residential and building requirements, authority having jurisdiction permits and inspection sequence, approved plans and engineering where required, site and soil conditions, property and utility constraints, selected wood, steel, concrete, connector, fastener, flashing, membrane, decking, guard and railing instructions, and signed scope and changes
  • Approved post and beam details and exact anchor, base, cap and treated-wood instructions

    • Tools

  • Approved plans, site survey, permit, product approvals, connector and fastener schedule, material receipts, inspection records and photographs
  • Tape measure, level, camera, string line and owner-safe observation tools; qualified layout, soil, concrete, torque, moisture and structural measurements where needed
  • Qualified designer or engineer, excavator, concrete, framing, waterproofing, electrical and inspection professionals as applicable

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