Deck Planning Articles
Adding a deck to your home and backyard requires significant planning to ensure your deck meets the codes and standards required within your area. While it involves a hefty amount of planning, the end result is worth it, giving you a beautiful structure that you can enjoy for years to come.
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Deck planning involves more than just mapping out the aesthetics of the type and style of deck you want to build. It’s important to be sure that your deck plan meets local building codes, as well as the code requirements for decks in your area. Before you even consider breaking ground on your new deck, you’ll need to check with your local homeowner’s association (HOA) to see if they have any specific requirements for decks, as well as connect with local building offices in your area to be sure your new structure meets standards.
Working with a licensed contractor can also make the process much easier. They can help to guide you through the process of submitting your building plan to the proper authorities, as well as lend their expertise to the construction of your new deck.
If you’re in the early stages of planning your deck project, check out this collection of articles to give you pointers for finding and choosing a deck contractor, understanding property lines and easements, and how to obtain the proper permits, as well as making sure your deck meets all codes and requirements.
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Building Permits
Permits for Building a Deck: Why You Need One and How to Get It
Many homeowners are surprised when they are told they need to get a permit in order to build a deck. It may seem like a hassle, but it’s well worth the small investment of time and money to ensure your deck is built to code standards and in compliance with local regulations
Landscaping
14 Backyard Landscaping Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space
If you're looking to spice up your backyard and need some inspiration, try adding these simple backyard landscaping ideas to your space. Even small changes can make a difference in the overall look and feel of your outdoor space.
Contracts
Contractor Problems? How to Communicate with Contractors and Handle Disputes
When working on a large construction project, there are bound to be bumps in the road. Learn how to handle disputes with a contractor with Decks.com.
Building Permits
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
Building Permits
Building A Deck Over A Septic Tank
Building a deck on or near a septic tank is not the best idea and can result in a damaged or punctured tank. Learn more about building near a septic tank at Decks.com.
Building Permits
The International Building Code Requirements for Decks
The International Building Code (IBC) regulates deck additions attached to commercial buildings. Learn how IBC requirements may affect your project at Decks.com.
Building Permits
IRC Deck Code Requirements
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
How to Hire a Contractor
How to Find & Choose a Deck Contractor
Finding a good contractor to build your deck doesn't have to be hard. Learn how to find a contractor and what to expect when working with one at Decks.com.
How to Hire a Contractor
Questions To Ask Your Deck Contractor
The quest to find the right contractor to complete your decking project can feel overwhelming and stressful. Learn more about what questions you should ask before hiring a contractor on decks.com
Building Permits
Permits for Building a Deck: Why You Need One and How to Get It
Many homeowners are surprised when they are told they need to get a permit in order to build a deck. It may seem like a hassle, but it’s well worth the small investment of time and money to ensure your deck is built to code standards and in compliance with local regulations
Landscaping
14 Backyard Landscaping Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space
If you're looking to spice up your backyard and need some inspiration, try adding these simple backyard landscaping ideas to your space. Even small changes can make a difference in the overall look and feel of your outdoor space.
Contracts
Contractor Problems? How to Communicate with Contractors and Handle Disputes
When working on a large construction project, there are bound to be bumps in the road. Learn how to handle disputes with a contractor with Decks.com.
Building Permits
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
Building Permits
Building A Deck Over A Septic Tank
Building a deck on or near a septic tank is not the best idea and can result in a damaged or punctured tank. Learn more about building near a septic tank at Decks.com.
Building Permits
The International Building Code Requirements for Decks
The International Building Code (IBC) regulates deck additions attached to commercial buildings. Learn how IBC requirements may affect your project at Decks.com.
Building Permits
IRC Deck Code Requirements
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
How to Hire a Contractor
How to Find & Choose a Deck Contractor
Finding a good contractor to build your deck doesn't have to be hard. Learn how to find a contractor and what to expect when working with one at Decks.com.
How to Hire a Contractor
Questions To Ask Your Deck Contractor
The quest to find the right contractor to complete your decking project can feel overwhelming and stressful. Learn more about what questions you should ask before hiring a contractor on decks.com
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights