Because Green Shield works year round, even in the snow, frost heave prevention is key to building successful lifetime decks. Green Shield crews follow all local building requirements and make sure your deck posts are anchored in soil that is below the frost line. Ask your Deck Designer about our footing solutions during a free deck check and estimate!
Frost Heave
Frost Heave is the process of shifting soil as a result of ice and water saturation in the soil during freezing temperatures. Yearly freeze-thaw cycles can cause significant damage to an improperly installed deck foundation and the surrounding landscaping. As a result of frost heave deck, posts not installed below the frost line can tilt creating uneven deck surfaces and increased safety risks. Make sure your deck builder is ready to handle the risks of frost heave before starting any deck building project in winter.
The Green Shield Difference
Built to Last
Green Shield Prevents Frost Heave
All deck posts placed by Green Shield's in-house W2 crews meet code requirements for frost line depth to prevent frost heave.
Year-Round Construction
Building Decks in the Winter
Green Shield Deck Builders has a Proven Process for building in the winter. Our crews work year-round to meet homeowner demand for the best decks in the nation.
Frost Line Depths
Every Deck is Permitted and Built to Code
The frost line is the depth soil freezes. Michigan code requires deck footings at least 42 inches deep to prevent frost heave from shifting structures.
Forever Decks
A Deck that Stays Flat for a Lifetime
Green Shield builds to strict standards that make sure every new deck is built to last. Explore the project gallery to see real examples of decks built by Green Shield.
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Custom-Shaped Tigerwood Woodland Walkout with Green Shield Stairs
Grand Rapids, MICustom-Shaped Tigerwood Woodland Walkout with Green Shield Stairs
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Urban Tigerwood Backyard Deck with Matching Skirting
Holland, MIUrban Tigerwood Backyard Deck with Matching Skirting
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270 Sq. Ft. Tigerwood deck featuring Black Baluster Railing
Grand Rapids, MI270 Sq. Ft. Tigerwood deck featuring Black Baluster Railing
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Ash Gray Quad-Deck Featuring Black Aluminum Railing
Kalamazoo, MIAsh Gray Quad-Deck Featuring Black Aluminum Railing
Green Shield Process
Common Questions about Frost Heave
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Yes! Green Shield is known for handling permits for every project. Year round, our permitting department works with local municipalities to make sure your deck is safe, up to local ordinances, and inside your property lines. Permits can be a headache for homeowners and can cost $1000 or more on top of construction costs. Green Shield includes the cost of permitting in our flat rate quote, giving homeowners peace of mind.
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Green Shield distinguishes itself through a "no-surprises" process, in-house permit management, and a specialized focus on composite materials that outperform traditional wood.