A Decking Contractor Should Be Well-Versed in Pulling Permits

If you’re going to have a deck built in your backyard, regardless of whether it’s attached to the house or a standalone deck, you’re going to have to get a deck permit. This is something required by law, and if you build without one and get caught, you’ll likely have to pay a big fine and may even be required to tear your new deck down, whether it’s partially built or completed. Basically, it’s not something that you want to have to go through.

Why Having a Permit is so Important When Building a Deck

We get this at least once a week.  "I spoke to a contractor who can start in 2 weeks and says I don't need a permit."

So why do you need a permit ?

In a nutshell: it’s the law.

All deck projects must be reviewed by your local jurisdiction to ensure they comply with the current International Residential Code (IRC). The IRC sets out minimum regulations for construction projects related to residences, including provisions for building, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, energy, and electrical. The goal is to ensure that all construction is safe, built correctly, and up to the current building standards.

Outdoor heating is a must and and fire is......cool!  Whats the best way to heat your outdoor space and make it look great?

Things to Considerations when Building a Fire Feature in your Outdoor Space

One of the most common add-ons for decks and patios is a fire feature. Whether it’s for the ambiance, the look, the functionality, or some combination thereof, backyard fire pits are extremely popular outdoor living space accessories in Maryland, Virginia, and the District. While there's no universal standard to what makes the most effective fire pit design, there are some guidelines you can discuss with your local deck contractor about pitfalls to avoid and possible issues to consider.

Building a rooftop deck in the Washington, DC, area is a great way to add style, sophistication, and value to your home, but the permit process can be challenging and, at times, frustrating. So, how long should a DC homeowner anticipate waiting for permits on a new rooftop deck construction, and what factors affect that wait time?

Before embarking on any kind of home improvement project, homeowners often ask us whether they will need to obtain a permit. The short answer? Most likely.

Most major projects - including low-maintenance decks, custom garages, screened-in porches, and home additions - require proper permitting. The specifics vary from county to county, but most jurisdictions will slam you with a big fine if you fail to obtain a proper permit, and may even force you to tear the structure down.