What are the disadvantages of a floating deck?

• <div><p>Floating decks are a cost-effective and versatile option, but they come with some compromises. Since they sit on smaller footings instead of being deeply anchored, they’re more likely to shift over time, especially in areas with heavy rainfall or freeze-thaw conditions. Their low-to-the-ground design makes them more susceptible to moisture buildup and potential water damage.</p></div>

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Q: How much does it cost to build a second-story deck?

• <div><p>The cost to build a second-story deck averages $4,800, though the actual price could range as low as $420 to upwards of $16,000. While labor costs range between 35% and 50% of the total project cost, the materials and complexity of design will ultimately lead you to save or spend more money on this home addition.</p></div>

Q: Which is less expensive, a deck or a patio?

• <div><p>Decks are generally more expensive to build because they require elevating and railings. The difference between decks and patios is that decks are elevated, while patios are usually on the ground level. Plus, decks are usually made of wood and need more maintenance than most patios. However, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/deck-vs-patio-which-works-better.htm">decks and patios</a> serve the same purpose, providing outdoor space for you to enjoy.</p></div>

Q: Do I need a permit to build a floating deck?

• <div><p>In many areas, a floating deck that isn&rsquo;t connected to your home and stays under 200 square feet and below 30 inches in height may not need a permit. These freestanding structures are often considered low-risk, which can simplify the building process. However, building codes vary greatly based on location. Before investing in any home improvement project, check with your local permitting office for deck-building guidelines. </p></div>

Q: Do I need to install footings under my floating deck?

• <div><p>In most cases, your deck will need some form of deck footing to hold it in place, preventing moisture from rotting your wood and decreasing your deck&rsquo;s lifespan. Concrete deck blocks are the most common type of footing for floating decks. Some homeowners use ground-level deck footings. For added security, consider digging and laying your ground-level footings below ground. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Maintenance pros in Flintstone, MD

*The Angi rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Flintstone, MD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Maintenance needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Deck Maintenance companies in Flintstone, MD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Maintenance needs.

Last update on March 25, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
Trent was kind, professional, HONEST and respectful. I reached out and he messaged within the hour. After brief conversation on the phone he was able to fit me in for a free water testing and system inspection that same day. I mentioned a 3 stage water system upgrade and after the water test...
Progressive Homecare Solutions
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Reviewed in September 2025
Once again, Rebel has helped me with a problem. Last time, he repaired my deck. This time, he sanded the cabinet so the new stove would fit in. And the results really look good. Rebel needs to get a bit more organized with time but he does such a good job that I'm not terribly concerned. And...
Killian Enterprises llc
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Reviewed in March 2025
Our roof replacement was done quick and professionally. We were so pleased we referred to multiple friends and family who had the same great experience!
Highland Construction
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Reviewed in September 2024
These guys were amazing from start to finish. Gave me a free estimate and a very reasonable price for the project. They got the work done in a very timely manner, always asked if I had any questions and worked very hard to give me what I was looking for. I will definitely be calling them for...
Castillo Construction
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Reviewed in January 2022
Green Future Construction was one of few landscaping companies that would do our entire project holistically -- regrading side and rear yards and integrating and building a new deck within the plan. All parts of the business work seamlessly with other parts. Our main contact, Anthony Martone,...
Green Future Construction
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Reviewed in July 2018
Excellent communication, excellent response to my needs. Will continue to use for bi-weekly maintenance.
Larue Property Services
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Reviewed in May 2018
Before contacting them, I was shopping around and was very surprised to some contractors lack of knowledge. When I came across this company and the reviews they got, I decided to give them a try and I was very pleased with their work. Diaz seems to be knowledgeable and pleasant to work with....
Speedy Repairs
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Reviewed in April 2012
I wanted to try this place after hearing good reviews from friends. The first time I went was just for general maintenance and I was told I "needed" about $800 worth of other repairs. When I got the breakdown it turned out all I truly needed were two new tires (which were much cheaper elsewhere...
RED RIDGE AUTO REPAIR
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Reviewed in March 2012
Honesty they did not provide the service they were going to provide. We got them because we had just finished leveling out our yard and putting a deck on. We were having difficulties in grass growing under the tree. I called them to help us to get grass to grow under the tree and thicken it up...
TruGreen Lawn Care - 5820
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Reviewed in March 2012
They are excellent and I have used them for years. I am on an annual maintenance agreement with them. I think their prices are average and they were here right away the next morning after I called. They have done other work for me in the past and I will use them again in the future.
Good Shepard HVAC
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Find Deck maintenance specialists in Flintstone

BlackRock Renovations

4.5(

)

Serving Flintstone, MD and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Did a very good job roofing our shed. Polite, on time and professional. I will definitely hiring them again."

Response time2 days

Response rate93%

31 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Flintstone, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 1991

Emergency services offered

"His work was outstanding in all respects. He was completely trustworthy. His price was right in the middle of all the estimates I got. In my case he stuck to his estimate but he didn't find any unexpected damage while he was working either. He did the job in 4 hours less than quoted maximum time frame. I'd have no hesitation in recommending his services are using his services again.
"

Recommended by94%of homeowners

Serving Flintstone, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

"Cyress Construction was very nice to deal with, prompt and efficient in every way! Thank you Dion!!!!!"

Recommended by83%of homeowners

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Mountain view painting

4.0(

)

Serving Flintstone, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

"It was excellent, he was very respectful and very clean. He did a very good job, I would recommend him to everybody. The price was very fair and reasonable."

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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Apex Contracting and Excavation

New to Angi

Serving Flintstone, MD and surrounding areas

I am TJ, owner and founder of Apex Contracting and Excavation. We are a small business operated by close family and friends to provide an exceptional experience for your home project. We have a combined 30 years of doing decks, fences, sheds, grading and small scale land clearing. We strive to have a family oriented mindset with a hassle free process from estimating to job site completion. We would love to earn your business one day.

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The Whole Nine Yards LLC

New to Angi

Serving Flintstone, MD and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Credit card accepted

My name is Dustin with The Whole Nine Yards, LLC. We started in 2021 and have been serving the eastern panhandle and surrounding areas ever since. We are licensed and insured, committed to safety and providing a great experience for all of our potential customers.

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Deck Maintenance questions, answered by experts

The cost to build a second-story deck averages $4,800, though the actual price could range as low as $420 to upwards of $16,000. While labor costs range between 35% and 50% of the total project cost, the materials and complexity of design will ultimately lead you to save or spend more money on this home addition.

Floating decks are a cost-effective and versatile option, but they come with some compromises. Since they sit on smaller footings instead of being deeply anchored, they’re more likely to shift over time, especially in areas with heavy rainfall or freeze-thaw conditions. Their low-to-the-ground design makes them more susceptible to moisture buildup and potential water damage.

Decks are generally more expensive to build because they require elevating and railings. The difference between decks and patios is that decks are elevated, while patios are usually on the ground level. Plus, decks are usually made of wood and need more maintenance than most patios. However, decks and patios serve the same purpose, providing outdoor space for you to enjoy.

In many areas, a floating deck that isn’t connected to your home and stays under 200 square feet and below 30 inches in height may not need a permit. These freestanding structures are often considered low-risk, which can simplify the building process. However, building codes vary greatly based on location. Before investing in any home improvement project, check with your local permitting office for deck-building guidelines.

In most cases, your deck will need some form of deck footing to hold it in place, preventing moisture from rotting your wood and decreasing your deck’s lifespan. Concrete deck blocks are the most common type of footing for floating decks. Some homeowners use ground-level deck footings. For added security, consider digging and laying your ground-level footings below ground.

The Flintstone, MD homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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What Is Composite Decking and Is It Right for Your Outdoor Space?
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