When deck footings are closer than 5 ft to the foundation, they should be at what level?

When deck footings are constructed closer than 5 feet to a foundation, they should ideally be at the same level as the foundation. This practice is essential for several reasons, primarily related to the structural integrity and stability of the deck and the adjacent foundation.

Having the deck footings at the same level as the foundation helps to ensure that both structures experience similar effects from soil movement, settlement, and lateral forces. If the footings were positioned higher or lower than the foundation, it could lead to uneven stresses on the surrounding soil, potentially causing heaving or settling issues that could compromise the integrity of the deck and the foundation.

Also, aligning the footings ensures proper drainage and minimizes water pooling, which is particularly important in maintaining the longevity of both the deck and the foundation. It's crucial in construction practices to maintain consistent levels in scenarios where foundational integrity could be impacted by adjacent structures.

The other options may suggest varying levels based on different scenarios or designs, which generally introduces risks of misalignment in load distribution and could create complications with moisture control, making the adherence to the same level a more reliable and standard approach in residential construction.