Decks & Porches

the guide

The structure you cannot see

Footings set below the frost line — commonly 36 inches in this part of Pennsylvania — a ledger bolted and flashed to the house, correctly sized beams and joists, and code-height guards are what make a deck safe.

What affects the price

Size and height, decking and railing materials, stairs, and site access. Second-story decks and those on slopes need more engineering and labor.

Maintenance

Wood decks need cleaning and sealing every couple of years. Check annually for loose rails, popped fasteners and soft boards, and look at the ledger flashing.

Rules and paperwork in Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania’s Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act requires most contractors who perform home improvements to register with the Attorney General’s office and to give you a written contract for any job over $500. The registration number belongs on the estimate and the contract — ask for it.
• Building permits in Pennsylvania are issued under the Uniform Construction Code by each municipality or the inspection agency it appoints, so the local building or codes office decides what needs a permit and an inspection.
• Pennsylvania law requires a call to 811 (PA One Call) at least three business days before digging, so buried utilities can be marked.

Sources: Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General — Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act; Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry — Uniform Construction Code; Pennsylvania One Call System. Rules change — confirm current requirements with the agency and with your municipality.

Questions to ask before you hire

1. How will the ledger be attached and flashed?
2. How deep are the footings, and who schedules the inspection?
3. What is the joist spacing for the boards I chose?
4. What is your Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor registration number?

Frequently asked questions