Deck Cost
Deck Project Planner
A dated stage-by-stage plan plus the checklist to run the job in order.
Your progress0 of 8 complete
- Design, measurement and material selection — Deck size, height above grade, material and railing choice set every other number on the quote.
- Permit application and HOA approval — Permits commonly take one to three weeks before any work starts.
- Material order and delivery — Composite and PVC boards are often order-in items; check lead times in writing.
- Tear out and disposal of the old deck — Not every job needs this; if it does, disposal and dumpster placement get agreed up front.
- Footings and pier installation — Footing inspection usually happens before anything is covered up.
- Framing, beams and joists — Framing inspection follows; flatness here decides whether the finished deck is wave-free.
- Decking, borders and fastening — Picture-frame borders, breaker boards and end-gap spacing take the most care.
- Railing, stairs, lighting and final inspection — Guardrail height and attachment are checked at the final inspection.