Supporting posts for a raised deck

[stephenp]

I'm building a raised decking area about 2m off the ground to support a playhouse for my kids. The area of the decking is about 5sqm, supported by 8 posts.

I'd like some advice on the footings for the posts as I can't decide whether it's best to sink the posts directly onto a base of gravel/stone at the bottom of a posthole and fill around with concrete, or otherwise just use a concrete in post support to keep the actual post above ground. The first option seems more stable though perhaps the post would last longer in a post support and kept above ground.

Thanks

 

[WabbitPoo]

Both of your conclusions are true, so take your pick. You'll need some lateral movement prevention (as provided by posts down into concrete).

 

[FDJ]

I'm building a raised decking area about 2m off the ground to support a playhouse for my kids. The area of the decking is about 5sqm, supported by 8 posts.

Don't forget to checkout the planning permission.
In this local authority, decking over 300mm above ground requires planning permission. I would think that this applies to all areas.

Frank