I'm planning to build a 14x14 pavilion in my backyard, and I'm stuck deciding between two methods for securing the posts. I'm thinking of a slab that's 16ft x 16ft and 4 inches thick. Some folks say that post anchors will work fine, especially since I live in central California where there's not much wind. Others suggest that I should bury the posts in concrete tubes before pouring the slab. What do you think is the best approach?
3 Answers
It really depends on how sturdy you want the structure to be. If you're using diagonal braces, post anchors should hold up fine. If the pavilion will stand alone without braces, I’d recommend embedding the posts in concrete to ensure better stability.
Definitely consider the cost of concrete for your slab if you haven't already. For that 16x16 pad, you're looking at over $600 just for delivery, not including pouring! If you're trying to save some cash on the post bases, maybe look into alternatives, but wood for a deck isn't going to be cheaper either.
Don't forget to check the manufacturer's specs for the posts; they often have recommendations for anchorage systems. Since you're in California, make sure you're also aware of any seismic codes that might apply to your structure.