deck help?

[steve gard]

I am going to install a deck over an existing concrete slab. I want to use 4x4 brackets for supports, what size bolt should I put through the 4x4 brackets to hold them into the concrete? should I use any epoxy?

thanks

[John M Wilson]

The Taunton's "Building a Deck" book suggests 1/2" dia for 4x4 and 5/8" dia for 6x6. If you use a hilti-style anchor, no epoxy is necessary. Make absolutely sure that your 4x4 is not contacting the ground -- that is the #1 cause of post rot, which is tough to fix. If you are using the metal post bases made for decks, that will be no problem, but you might want to dip the ends of your 4x4s into preservative before mounting them. Good Luck!