Get matched with top deck cleaning pros in Sumner, IA

Building a deck without a permit could lead to fines for both the homeowner and the contractor. The exact penalties will depend on your state and municipal building laws. You might also be required to remove the deck and apply for a permit before you can build another. While it might be tempting to skip the permit to save a few bucks, it’ll cost you much more if you’re caught.

You can add a roof to most decks, but you need to have it inspected first. If your deck didn’t come with a roof initially, it may not be able to handle the weight without some structural changes. You can add additional supports to your existing deck to safely add a roof, and tying your deck’s roof to an exterior wall can help add some structural stability, but remember these aren’t DIY projects and need to be left to a pro. 

Both aluminum and composite decking materials are environmentally friendly, with aluminum decking coming in as the most eco-friendly option. 

Though composite decking helps remove plastics from landfills, recycles wood, and lasts longer than traditional wood decks, it’s not recyclable and only lasts for 25 to 30 years on average. Aluminum can last well over 30 years and is almost always recyclable.

You can build an outdoor kitchen on a deck, but you should choose composite decking since it's more heat-resistant. Metal deck materials like steel and aluminum are also good choices because they're less flammable than wood. You should also consider the weight of the kitchen—make sure your deck can support it and any appliances you plan to use. You should consult a structural engineer to confirm exactly how much weight your deck can safely support when building an outdoor kitchen.