Because Green Shield got our start in Michigan, our crews work in the snow and are trained in all aspects of Frost Line construction. By placing footings at Michigan’s 42 inch frost line standard Green Shield decks meet or exceed local code requirements which are less strict in Indiana and Ohio. In addition to meeting or exceeding frost line requirements, our footings are engineered footing pad or ground screws. By not building with concrete our crews can build year round and prevent concrete lift and frost heave experienced by less experienced deck builders.
Frost Line
The Frost Line is the specific depth below the ground surface to which the soil is expected to freeze during the coldest part of the year. In Michigan residential construction code considers the frost line to be 42 inches. This means that all footings for new deck construction must be placed at least 42 inches below actual grade. Placing footings below the frost line prevents frost heave from pulling structures away from the home. Make sure your builder understands local freeze-though cycles and has taken the necessary precautions to keep your deck level and secure for years to come.
Green Shield Footer placed below frost line.
The Green Shield Difference
"Green Shield always works to or exceeds the strictest local standards including frost line depth."
- Adam Rought,
CEO & Founder
Why does Frost Line Mater for Deck Building?
Green Shield Knows About Frost Line Depth
See Green Shield crews at work digging below the frostline to make sure every deck project lasts a lifetime.
America's #1 Deck Builder
Decks Built Year-Round
Green Shield Builds in Winter
Adam Rought, CEO and Founder of Green Shield Deck Builders showcases in-house W2 crews with the grit to work year-round. Building in winter allows homeowners to not miss any hosting days and have a deck ready by spring.
Frost Heave Risks
What Happens if You Don't Dig Past the Frost Line?
Frost heave occurs when freezing soil shifts shallow footings, creating uneven and unsafe deck surfaces. Green Shield prevents frost heave risk by placing posts below the local frost line. Every Green Shield deck is built to meet or exceed local building code requirements and designed to last a lifetime.
Decks Built to Last Forever
Green Shield Composite Deck Projects
Every Green Shield deck is built on a foundation placed below the frost line and backed by the only real warranty in decking.
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Urban Tigerwood Walkout Deck with Glass Railing and Pergola
Benton Harbor, MIUrban Tigerwood Walkout Deck with Glass Railing and Pergola
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Urban Tigerwood Backyard Deck with Matching Skirting
Holland, MIUrban Tigerwood Backyard Deck with Matching Skirting
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301 Sq. Ft. Brazilian Cherry deck featuring Black Baluster Railing
Lansing, MI301 Sq. Ft. Brazilian Cherry deck featuring Black Baluster Railing
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Hazelwood Deck Featuring an Ash Gray Picture Frame
Kalamazoo, MIHazelwood Deck Featuring an Ash Gray Picture Frame
Green Shield Process
Common Questions about Frost Line
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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.
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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.
