How to Add to Concrete Footing With Rebar

Outside structures, such as gazebos and patio covers, typically have wooden posts for structural support. However, these wooden posts must be permanently installed into the ground for safe construction. Concrete footings are used to hold and protect the wooden posts within the ground, creating a durable support for many years. Concrete footings can be reinforced with rebar, or steel rods, to provide even more structural integrity to the building.

Shovel
Power auger
2 rebar rods, #4
Concrete
Support post

Instructions

- 1
  Dig a hole with a shovel or powered auger for the support post. Extend the hole into the ground past the frost line by 6 inches. This depth helps alleviate frost thrusts to the structure, protecting the overall construction.
- 2
  Pour wet concrete into the hole, filling the space completely. Allow at least 3 inches of concrete to protrude above the footing hole as this height protects the post from excessive water damage.
- 3
  Insert the two rebar rods into the wet concrete. Place both rods near the middle, allowing a few inches in between them as a space for the post. Ensure that the rebar length extends to the bottom of the footing hole but does not protrude above the top surface of the concrete.
- 4
  Insert the support post into the wet concrete. Push the post down into the footing hole until it reaches the bottom. Allow the concrete to dry before placing structural pieces such as a patio cover, onto the post.

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