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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.

Tropical Walnut Green Shield deck with drink rail and planters. Drone shot of deck showing seven stairs and black baluster aluminum deck railing.
Green Shield decks remain flat forever due to build science that makes sure to go below the frost line and prevent frost heave.

The Green Shield Difference

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!

"Our deck posts will always be stabilized below the frost line to ensure a dead flat surface for the lifetime of your deck."
- Adam Rought,
CEO & Founder

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.

America's #1 Deck Builder

Year-Round Construction

Building Decks in the Winter

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.

Deck Dictionary: Frost Line
Green Shield FootingPad placed 42 inches down a hole to meet or exceed frostline requirements. Snow can be seen around frozen ground.

Green Shield Process

Common Questions about Frost Heave

  • 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.

  • Green Shield distinguishes itself through a "no-surprises" process, in-house permit management, and a specialized focus on composite materials that outperform traditional wood.