The Footing Tube

8 in: Construct supports for decks, cottages, and additions. Not for frost depths exceeding 58 in.
10/12 in: Construct supports for larger structures, pole barns, tarp buildings, large gate supports to resist lateral loads. For use with posts up to 8 in X 8 in. Not for frost depths exceeding 60 in.
FTB30 Base: When required, the FTB30 base can be installed under the 8 in tube and the 10/12 in tube, to increase load-bearing capacity by 90% for weaker soils and heavier loads.
FTB36 Base: When required, the FTB36 base can be installed under the 8 in tube and the 10/12 in tube, to increase load-bearing capacity by 220% for weaker soils and heavier loads

Step 1: Excavate to the depth that will eliminate frost from going under the pier. Local building officials will be able to provide frost depth information. The bottom of the excavated hole should be on undisturbed soil of adequate bearing capacity to support the load that the pier will be transferring to the ground (see below for FTB30 Base installation when required).
Step 2: Install the Footing Tube in desired location. Centre and level marking is provided on the safety top for easier locating. Place level on the safety top and position the bottom of the tube in desired location. Backfill some material around the base to hold it in position and level.
Step 3: Backfill to grade required before filling with concrete; 3 ft (91 cm) minimum backfill required before filling with concrete. The backfill should be compacted and using coarse rock may damage tube.
Step 4: Do not remove the safety top until you are ready to pour your concrete. Determine the required height of the concrete pier and remove the safety top by cutting along scribe line. Pump out any standing water present. Pour concrete in 12 in (30 cm) lifts and rod the material using a steel bar, with at least 6 thrusts, or use a concrete vibrator to consolidate the fluid concrete. Rebar can be placed in wet concrete as required by local codes. The concrete to be placed in the tubes is to have a minimum compressive strength of 20.7 MPa (3000 psi) at 28 days and be poured as per the National Building Code of Canada standards.

The Footing Tube is designed for an in-ground installation with a minimum depth of 91 cm (3 ft) of backfill.

# of 30kg (66 lb) Concrete Bags Required Per « The Footing Tube » 

The Footing Tube FTB36 Base: When a larger base is required, the FTB36 base can be used with both the 8” tube and the 10/12” tube. When installed under The Footing Tube, the base will increase the load-bearing capacity by 220% and raise the height by 9.25” (23.5 cm). Follow Step 1, ensuring the area is large enough to accept the 41” (104 cm) FTB36 base. Insert base in desired location. Place chosen tube on top and rotate until location and level tube is achieved. Secure with screws to stabilize. Continue with Step 2.

Allow newly placed material to set until the surface is hard to the touch. Concrete mix will set in approximately 6 hours. Keep material damp or cover with plastic to prevent evaporation of mix water for at least three (3) days. Protect from freezing for at least 48 hours.

Have 4 in (10 cm) of the top of the tube exposed above finished grade to allow for soil movement caused by freezing and water absorption.

The Footing Tube FTB30 Base: When a larger base is required, the FTB30 base can be used with both the 8” tube and the 10/12” tube. When installed under The Footing Tube, the base will increase the load-bearing capacity by 90% and raise the height by 6.25” (16 cm). Follow Step 1, ensuring the area is large enough to accept the 33” (84 cm) FTB30 base. Insert base in desired location. Place chosen tube on top and rotate until location and level tube is achieved. Secure with screws to stabilize. Continue with Step 2.