Homeowners should build their floating decks at least 18 inches off the ground. Having it at this height will allow for better airflow underneath and help prevent moisture-related problems like warping or rot. That being said, local guidelines for deck heights may vary depending on where you live.

Deck stairs should have at least three stringers rather than two. The recommended minimum width for stairs is 36 inches, and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommends at least three cut stringers to provide sufficient support on wood decking stairs of this width. Generally, stringers should be a maximum of 16 inches apart for wood decking and 12 inches apart for more flexible composite decking.

Composite decking might cost more upfront, but it delivers value in terms of durability. Unlike wood, composite material resists common deck problems such as rotting, fading, warping, and all the other things you don’t want a deck to do. The extra processes lead to a higher price tag, but you’ll save big in maintenance costs down the road.

Yes, Ipe is more expensive than Trex decking—both in terms of materials and installation (plus, Ipe trees are endangered). On average, Ipe decking costs $10 to $25 per square foot, while Trex decking costs $5 to $12 per square foot. Because Ipe is harder to work with, the price of installation is higher, too. For Ipe decking, you’ll pay between $20 and $45 per square foot for labor. However, with Trex decking, the labor costs range from $8 to $22 per square foot.