Why More Utah Contractors Are Choosing Ground Screws Over Concrete Footings

Ground Screws used instead footings at a cabin

For decades, concrete footings have been the default foundation for decks and outdoor structures. But in 2025, Utah contractors are shifting gears—and it’s not hard to see why. Ground screws are becoming the go-to solution for fast, durable, and efficient foundation work. At Wasatch Deck & Rail Supply, we’re seeing more builders walk away from concrete in favor of this smarter option—and we’re here to support the transition.

From mountain decks to backyard builds, ground screws offer serious advantages over traditional methods. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or just exploring new ways to streamline your process, here’s everything you need to know about why ground screws are gaining ground in Utah.

What Are Ground Screws?

Ground screws are galvanized steel anchors designed to replace concrete footings. Think of them as structural lag bolts that twist directly into the soil using a hydraulic or handheld driver. Once installed, they serve as a sturdy, code-compliant base for everything from decks and pergolas to fences and sheds.

Unlike concrete, ground screws don’t require digging, mixing, or curing. They're fast, stable, and ready to build on immediately after installation. At Wasatch, we stock professional-grade ground screws in multiple lengths and diameters, complete with brackets and saddles that integrate directly with your framing.

Why Utah Builders Are Making the Switch

Speed Without Sacrifice

Concrete footings take time. Between digging, forming, pouring, and waiting days for curing, a simple foundation install can turn into a major bottleneck. Ground screws eliminate that delay. Most installations take just minutes per footing—and you can frame on the same day. If you're working on a tight timeline or juggling multiple job sites, this kind of speed is a game changer.

Designed for Challenging Terrain

Utah is known for its dramatic slopes, rocky soil, and fluctuating weather. Those conditions make ground screws an ideal choice. Because they can be installed at angles and to varying depths, ground screws work well in places where concrete just won’t cut it. Whether you're building a deck in Emigration Canyon, a pergola in Park City, or a fence in Cottonwood Heights, ground screws offer dependable anchoring without heavy excavation.

All-Season Installation

Winter work is a real challenge when concrete is involved. Frozen ground and cold temperatures make it nearly impossible to pour footings safely or effectively. Ground screws are different. They can be installed year-round—even in frozen or wet soil—making them a smart choice for contractors who don’t shut down when the snow flies.

Clean and Efficient

No concrete trucks. No form boards. No torn-up yards. Ground screws keep the jobsite cleaner, simpler, and more efficient. That’s a win for contractors and homeowners alike.

How Ground Screws Compare to Concrete Footings

Feature	Ground Screws	Concrete Footings
Installation Time	Minutes per footing	Hours + days to cure
Weather Flexibility	All-weather, all-season	Requires dry, warm conditions
Soil Disruption	Minimal	Major excavation needed
Load-Bearing Capacity	High	High (with proper install)
Usability on Slopes	Excellent	Requires tiered forms
Environmental Impact	Low	High (excavation, cement)
Cost Over Time	Often lower	Higher due to labor/materials

Applications for Ground Screws in Utah

Ground screws aren’t just for decks. We’re seeing contractors across the state use them in a wide range of residential and light commercial builds:

• Decks and multi-tier platforms

• Pergolas and pavilions

• Privacy fences and gates

• Retaining walls

• Garden boxes and greenhouses

• Temporary or modular structures

• Sheds and tiny homes

For cabin builds or mountain properties where traditional footings are cost-prohibitive or impractical, ground screws are the obvious choice.

How to Get Started with Ground Screws

Ground screw used in differing types of elevation

If you’re new to ground screws, we’re happy to walk you through it. Most installs can be completed with a skid steer, mini-excavator, or handheld driver. And we’re happy to recommend tools or equipment rental options.

For larger contractors, switching to ground screws can also mean:

• Faster job turnover

• Reduced labor costs

• Fewer call-backs due to shifting or cracked concrete

• A cleaner environmental footprint

Ground screws are here to stay—and we want to make sure you’re equipped to make the most of them.

Built to Pair with TimberTech Decking

One of the most common questions we get: are ground screws compatible with composite decking like TimberTech?

Absolutely.

In fact, for composite decks—especially those in moisture-prone areas or high altitudes—ground screws often outperform traditional footings. They create a solid, consistent base that resists heaving and shifting, which helps prevent warping or gapping in your deck boards over time.

If you're building with TimberTech (or planning to), ground screws are a rock-solid partner.

Let’s Make Your Next Build Smoother

At Wasatch Deck & Rail Supply, we’re here to support your entire project—not just the visible stuff. Foundations matter. Ground screws can make your installs cleaner, quicker, and more professional. Whether you're a contractor bidding on a big project or a homeowner looking to make smart upgrades, our team is ready to help.

Come see us in Murray or give us a call to learn more about the ground screw solutions we offer. Let’s ditch the delays and get your next job off the ground—literally.

Wasatch Deck & Rail Supply – Murray, UtahYour local source for TimberTech decking, railing, and ground screw foundation materials

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