Simple & Functional Screened Composite Porch Deck in Chestnut Hill, PA

Generally speaking, the answer is yes. Every township is going to require a permit for a new build. This is because you are creating a new structure that could impede property line offsets. For that, the township is concerned with the zoning elements. To ensure all its citizens are safe, project inspections are conducted throughout the construction to inspect the footings & foundation, framing, and overall quality of the build.  We build to the most recent standards set by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC). Learn more about the UCC here.

Smaller builds like Project #031 take about 5 weeks in total. 2-3 weeks are reserved for design and permitting. A simple design could be created, submitted and approved within 3 weeks. Then, any demolition and all construction would last about two weeks.

For a medium-scale design like Project #007 or Project #019, the full process would span 8-12 weeks. These designs include more detail which requires more drafts to get it just right. The design and permitting would take 4-8 weeks to create the design renderings, coordinate the subcontractors, get the permits approved, and order materials. After breaking ground, you can expect the construction to last between 5-8 weeks.

Full Backyard makeovers require the efforts of our full design team and generally require electrical, plumbing, gas & other specialties. The coordination increases tremendously so we always require our customers to allow anywhere from 6-12 months for these improvements. Design 2-3 months. Zoning & Permitting up to 2 months. Preparation 2-4 weeks. Construction 3-4 months.

Easy answer: No. In our experience, we have not had success with utilizing existing structures for new deck designs.  The main issue in attempting to use old framing is it shifts, twists and changes over time. It may dry out or become waterlogged based on your area. Additionally, ground-contact framing lumber has a limited life expectancy when not properly treated. Composite decking last for 25-50 years which will outlast the framing left over from your current deck. For this, we always build new, including the concrete post footings.

If you’re looking to replace your deck boards and railings with the exact same layout you currently have, that could be possible. But we expect framing improvements due to updated building codes over the years.

Yes, we can build in colder temperatures. There are some limitations based on snow coverage and ground saturation. Generally speaking, the colder months do not inhibit our ability to elevate your outdoors.  If you do not want to build your new deck during the winter, then it’s a great time to plan your spring project. Experienced builders begin to backlog their installations starting April-May through the summer season.

Yes, we offer a full array of outdoor living & entertaining services, including kitchen surrounds, custom bar areas, media centers and more. If you are looking to do more than host an average 4^th of July party, Dexteriors can help you set the stage. Our kitchen designs can include commercial gas grills including pizza ovens, sinks & drain, dishwasher, vent hood, refrigerators, and more. We’ll consider all details!