Concrete Deck Footings with Rebar Plain concrete deck foundations without rebar are permitted under the International Residential Code's minimal construction guidelines. Rebar can be used to footings with high bearing surfaces or unstable soil to avoid cracking. The code allows for the use of rebar in new construction, but not in replacement decks. Rebar is a metal rod used to reinforce concrete structures. It is often used in building frameworks such as beams, columns, and frames. In concrete floors, rebar is added to increase its strength and durability. The rebar should be deep enough so that it does not show at floor level, but not so deep as to prevent future repair or modification if needed. The depth of bar required in footings depends on several factors such as the type of footing you are making, how much weight will be supported by it, etc. The code requires that you protect shallow footings from being overloaded by preventing surface water from collecting in them. For this reason, all concrete foundations should be at least 2 inches deep. If you have sandy soil, your footings should be 3 inches deep to allow for proper drainage. Deeper footings are recommended to improve stability when loading areas contain loose material such as sand or gravel.