Building a deck follows a clear process that keeps the structure safe and long-lasting. The first step is to remove the old deck, if one is in place, and check the house for water damage, rot, or soft framing around the siding.
After the area is sound and dry, our crew begins the main work. Each stage has an order, starting with footings and framing, then moving to decking, stairs, and railings. This approach keeps the project organized and on schedule.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Deck?
If it’s about a 300 or 400-square-foot deck, building a deck takes about four, five days for us. That’s if nothing slows us down. If it’s really hot or starts raining, we might need another day. Just depends on how things go.
The timeline looks about like this:
- Remove the old deck (if one exists) – Half a day
- Inspect the house framing and siding – 1 day (depending on condition)
- Dig footings and set piers – 1 day
- Frame the deck and install posts – 1 to 2 days
- Install decking, stairs, and rails – 1 to 2 days
- Final inspection and cleanup – Half a day
Key Takeaway: Most decks take about a week to complete, but hidden damage or bad weather can add time.
What Happens First in the Deck Building Process?
Do You Need to Tear Out the Old Deck?
Most of our jobs begin by removing an old deck or porch. This doesn’t take long, usually just a few hours. We haul away the debris and start with a clean work area.
What Is the House Envelope Inspection?
Before we build anything new, we inspect the area where the old deck connected to the house. We look for signs of water damage, wood rot, or siding issues. If we find any damage, we’ll let you know right away and give you a repair estimate.
Pro Tip: Always check for hidden water damage behind old decks. Fixing it early prevents bigger problems later.
How Are Deck Footings and Framing Done?
Digging the Footings
For decks that stand higher off the ground, the footings have to be dug deeper and poured correctly. We usually dig the holes by hand or with an auger, then fill them with concrete to hold the piers. The inspector has to sign off before we move forward, because if those aren’t right, nothing else will line up the way it should.
Framing and Structural Work
Once the piers are approved, we put the posts in and start tying the frame together. This is the stage that defines the layout and overall strength of the deck. We check lines, levels, and connections as we go, sometimes making small adjustments on the spot. The idea is simple: if the frame isn’t square and solid now, every step that comes later will give you problems.
Need expert help with building a deck? Contact DW Decks for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through the whole process.
When Do You Install the Deck Boards and Railings?
Once the frame’s done, we start laying the boards. Around the same time, we build the stairs and install the railings. What you pick for materials, wood, composite, or PVC, can affect how long that part takes.
After everything’s installed, we call for the final inspection. Once that’s approved, we clean up the site and walk you through the finished job.
What Can Slow Down a Deck Build?
Most jobs move along the way we plan, but some don’t. We do our best to prepare, though things can still happen once the old deck comes off or while we’re waiting on outside approvals. If that slows the schedule, we explain it and set a new finish date.
- Bad weather — If it rains too much, gets too hot, or storms roll in, the crew may need to stop. Pushing ahead in poor conditions only causes problems later.
- Permits — City or county offices can be quick, but sometimes they take longer than expected, and we can’t continue until the paperwork is cleared.
- Hidden damage — After demolition, it’s common to see rot, moisture, or weak framing that wasn’t visible before. That has to be fixed before anything else.
- Materials — Deliveries don’t always show on time, and sometimes they arrive incomplete. Both will stall progress.
- Complex designs — Extra levels, custom rails, or angled layouts add hours to each stage and stretch the build past a standard deck.
Nobody likes delays, and we don’t either. If they happen, you’ll hear from us right away, so there’s no guessing.
Final Steps Before You Use the Deck
Before we wrap up the job, we walk through every part of the build to make sure it meets code and holds up under inspection. We check the railings, stairs, framing, and fastening points to be sure nothing was missed. If anything looks off, we take care of it right then, not later.
Once that’s squared away, we clean up the site and take time to walk you through the finished deck. We’ll explain how to take care of it, what to expect as it weathers, and what kind of maintenance helps it last. Even simple things like when to reseal or how to spot early wear can make a difference over time.
Here’s what we complete before we consider the job done:
- Final inspection passed
- Site cleaned and cleared
- Maintenance questions answered
- Your final sign-off
Ready to Start Your Deck Project?
Now that you know what to expect when building a deck, it’s easier to make smart choices and avoid surprises. From tear-out to inspection, we handle the full process with care.
Contact DW Decks today for a free quote and site check. Let’s build something great together.
