New deck construction
A deck sized for how you'll use it, built on footings deep enough that a northern Michigan winter won't shift it.
What decides how long a deck lasts is mostly hidden: footings, posts, beams, joists and the connection to the house. Boards and railings get the attention, but they're the easiest parts to replace later. A builder who takes care with the parts underneath is the one worth hiring.
What goes into a new deck?
- Footings below frost. Garfield Township's deck handout, which follows the Michigan Residential Code, calls for concrete footings at least 42 inches below grade, with a 24-inch depth allowed in sandy soils. The footing holes are inspected before they're backfilled or poured.
- A flashed, bolted ledger. The same handout requires the ledger to be flashed, fastened with half-inch lag screws or bolts, and kept off stone or masonry veneer. Houses with veneer get a freestanding deck instead.
- Framing sized for the span. Joists at 12, 16 or 24 inches on center, with span limits taken from the code's tables, and hardware that's galvanized or stainless.
- Boards, guards and stairs. Wood or composite decking, with railings and steps built to code dimensions.
- Permits and inspections. Typically footings, framing and a final inspection.
Which materials are common?
| Material | Where it fits | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Treated pine | Framing on nearly every deck; lower-cost decking | Needs cleaning and sealing on a schedule; can check and cup |
| Cedar | Natural color and a softer look | Still needs a finish; framing underneath is usually treated |
| Composite / PVC | Owners who don't want to stain | Higher cost; see composite decks |
Sloped lots and walkouts
The hills that rise from the bay leave plenty of houses with a walkout lower level and a main floor well above the yard. A deck off that floor can sit eight or ten feet up on the downhill side, which means taller posts, bracing and a stair layout that lands on level ground. On a steep lot, the slope itself can bring a county soil erosion permit into play.
What to think about before the builder comes out
- How many people you want to seat, and whether a grill, hot tub or fire table will sit on it
- Which way it faces, and whether you want sun in the evening or shade at midday
- Whether you might add a roof or screens later, so footings can be sized now
- Where the stairs should land, and whether you need a gate for kids or dogs
What drives the cost?
- Size, height and shape
- Number of footings, levels and stair runs
- Decking and railing materials
- Tear-off of an old deck, site access and permit work
Pricing comes from the builder after they've seen the house, measured, checked the soil and access, and talked through materials with you. We don't quote prices, and any number you hear before a site visit is a guess at best.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
How deep do deck footings go around Traverse City?
Garfield Township's deck handout lists at least 42 inches below grade, or 24 inches in sandy soils. Your builder should confirm the depth with the office issuing your permit.
Can a new deck hold a hot tub?
Possibly, but a filled tub weighs far more than standard span tables assume, so the deck has to be designed for it. Mention it at the first visit.
Related services
More background: Traverse City deck guide.
A deck that's gone gray and soft, or one you've only pictured over the bay?
Call the number above and a Grand Traverse area deck builder will talk through what makes sense for your house.