How to Anchor a Deck to the Ground

Draw circles to indicate post hole locations and diameters, using spray paint. Use a post-hole digger to remove the dirt. Check with a tape measure until you have reached your desired depth.

Place a shovel in a hole. Angle the shovel away from the hole's center, against the sides. Use the shovel to shave off dirt around the hole's bottom edges. This makes the hole bell shaped, which helps hold the footing in place. Use the post-hole digger to remove the dirt from the hole. Repeat with the remaining post holes.

Insert a hand tamper into the hole and tamp down the soil on the hole's bottom. Repeat with the other post holes.

Mix concrete, in a wheelbarrow, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Insert a deck post into the post hole. Hold a level against the post and adjust it so it is plumb. Ask a friend to hold the post as still as possible while you fill the hole with concrete. Stop filling when you the concrete is approximately 3 inches from ground level.

Hold the level against the post once more and make any necessary adjustments. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 with the remaining post holes and posts. Build you deck off these posts, which should create a strong anchor to the ground.