Sioux Falls Decks in SD - Deck Builder or Contractor Considerations
Decks in the Sioux Falls, SD metro are an already valuable addition to homes and are continuing to become a major consideration for many home improvement, remodel, or full scale renovation projects. It requires careful consideration of any permitting needs, materials, design, and determining if you should do it yourself or hire it out. This article will discuss the best practices for deck installation in Sioux Falls, SD.
Composite decking is quickly becoming the standard.
These two decks are constructed with treated lumber for the supporting structure, Trex decking & fascia, and a black metal railing with solar lights on every post.
Obtain the necessary Sioux Falls deck permits
Before starting any construction or deck project, it's important to make sure you have the necessary permits in place. In Sioux Falls, and many of the surrounding towns or communities, you'll need to apply for a building permit for any deck over 200 square feet, attached to the house, or any number of other criteria through the city's or counties building services department.
Note, when it comes to deck repair, pulling a building permit may not be needed. However, it’s always better to research building codes specific to your area and check with the local building services department to be sure.
However, if you hire a reputable deck contractor or DaleTree Decks & Custom Woodworking, we’ll be sure to pull the correct permits and make sure your new deck complies with the latest local building codes and zoning regulations. We offer free quotes and you can reach out to us by filling out the form at the Schedule an Estimate page.
If you choose to inquire with a handyman service or contractor, make sure they’re able to know when they need to pull a building permit. And if they do need to, make sure they have the contractors license, insurance, and bond needed to do so.
And, if your project requires electrical work, even the best deck builders will likely not have the necessary licensing to be an installer for any lighting or outlets needed. There however may be an exception for solar battery powered lighting.
Consider the different options between Composite deck and pressure treated materials
When building a deck, here are some considerations for you to consider with materials when building your deck or porch.
Wood Options: Pressure treated lumber is the most common material used for deck construction, however, not all of it has to be treated lumber. Other options include using the common red cedar wood, exotic or durable wood such as red wood (which has been known to last for decades before rotting) or mahogany,
Wood Alternative Options: Many choose to have a composite deck built for them to increase the durability and longevity of their deck. Pressure treated lumber is still used for the structure, but then composite deck or PVC type material is used for the decking.
Also, many manufactures offer additional products for their fascia, which covers some or all of the outside exposed lumber sections.
Some may also offer different widths of deck boards, such as TimberTech’s AZEK product line. This can add a lot of character to your outdoor space, but may also increase the cost of the project.
Additionally, when selecting a material, it is important to consider the climate of the area and what type of weathering it will experience over time. Any deck in the Sioux Falls area metro will face a number of extreme weather conditions throughout the year. So, for example, a composite deck may stand up to hail much better than a cedar deck.
If you’re considering retrofitting your existing deck and installing composite over the old deck structure, just know that carries a certain amount of risk itself. Most composite deck boards come with at least a 25 year limited warranty (and in some cases up to a 50 year limited warranty) against fade and manufacture defects. But if the existing deck structure only has 7-10 more years of life left in it, your investment into a wonderful outdoor living space may be cut short since the old structure hasn’t held up. Any reputable Sioux Falls deck builders will be able to recommend weather or not you should replace the whole thing and take into consideration your existing structure life span.
Lastly, custom deck railings will often be up to (and in some cases, more) than a third of your project budget. And with so many options available, it’s no wonder. At the very least, quotes from DaleTree include a 2x2 wooden spindle or 1x2 black metal spindle, 4x4 posts, 2x4 supports for the spindles, and a matching deck board for the top. However, you can upgrade to metal steel or aluminum, a composite system that often acts like a sleeve over the mounted 4x4s, a cabling system, glass paneling, or many many many other types of railings.
What design considerations do I have to keep in mind for a deck or porch in Sioux Falls?
Consider the dimensions and layout of your deck based on the size of your yard and the purpose of the deck. Make sure to plan out the layout and design before beginning construction. Many reputable contractors in Sioux Falls, South Dakota will be able to give you some guidance here. If not though, here are some questions you can ask yourself.
Do you want a large space for entertaining, or a smaller area for relaxing?
Will you need railings, 1/2 walls with siding, or other features such as built-in seating or a pergola?
Would you want to include any major upgrades, such an outdoor kitchen or make it a three season porch with a roof?
What is the best location for the deck in order to maximize the use of the space and to provide the best view of the surrounding area.
Is this a patio and you would like to turn it into a 3 season room with a roof, bug screen, lighting, and access to the outside through a screen door.
Build it yourself or hire a reputable contractor / professional deck builders
Deck construction can be complex, especially if you're not familiar with construction techniques. But, it can also be so rewarding to take on a challenge by yourself and see the satisfaction of your hard work come to life. Taking on this challenge will require you to work closely with the local building services department, and the code standards they follow, as well as a good lumber yard to help you manage / calculate your deck material costs.
However, in today’s busy climate, many opt to hire this project out to qualified deck companies or deck installers. They’ll be able to submit the necessary deck design plans needed for your local building services, they can make sure best carpentry and installation practices are followed, and they’ll help ensure the project is completed safely and to code.
DaleTree Decks & Custom Woodworking can provide installation services for your next deck project or porch. We have experience from complete deck replacement, to retrofitting an existing structure with composite; from converting a covered deck to a three seasons room, to general repairs. If you’re in the metro area and are in need of some help, we’d love to be considered. And, we also provide a free estimates. Feel free to reach out to us by filling out the form at the Schedule an Estimate page. We’ll then coordinate a day and time for us to stop out and talk through your project needs.
By following these guidelines, you can have a deck that you’ll be able to create many wonderful memories with family, friends, and love ones. It’ll make an amazing addition to your home, encourage you on those beautiful summer days, and in all likelihood, increase your resale value.
However, if you hire a reputable deck contractor, such as DaleTree Decks & Custom Woodworking, we’ll be sure to pull the correct permits and make sure your new deck complies with the latest local building codes and zoning regulations.
If you choose to inquire with a handyman service or contractor, make sure they’re able to know when they need to pull a building permit and if they need to, they have the contractors license, insurance, and bond needed to do so. Also, even the best deck builders will likely not have the necessary licensing to be an installer for your electrical needs, such as any lighting needed.
By following these guidelines, you can have a deck that you’ll be able to create many wonderful memories with family, friends, and love ones. It’ll make an amazing addition to your home, encourage you on those beautiful summer days, and in all likelihood, increase your resale value.