Building a new deck is a big investment for any home around Morningside Park or the West Side, and it raises plenty of questions. Over the years running Inglewood Deck Creations, we have heard just about every concern a homeowner can bring up. We prefer to look at what actually goes into Deck Construction right here in Inglewood.
Do I really need a permit for a deck in Inglewood?
Yes, you do. The City of Inglewood building and safety department requires permits for any Deck Construction attached to a house or raised more than a certain height off the ground. Skipping the permit might save you a little time upfront, but the issue will come back when you try to sell your house. City inspectors look at setback rules, property lines, and structural load calculations to make sure your Deck Construction will not collapse.
How much does a custom deck cost these days?
Prices vary depending on size, materials, and site conditions, but most decent-sized custom Deck Construction projects in our area land somewhere between $25 and $55 per square foot. If you are choosing between pressure-treated pine and high-end composite boards like Trex, your materials budget will shift significantly. Labor costs, excavation, and dealing with our local clay soil also factor into the final bottom line.
How long does the whole construction process take?
Once we have the permits in hand, actual Deck Construction usually takes anywhere from one to three weeks for a standard residential deck. Permits take longer. Getting city approval can add a few weeks to a month before we even start building. If your project involves complex multi-levels or custom built-in seating, tack on another week.
What materials hold up best in our local climate?
- Composite boards resist the intense summer sun without warping or needing yearly sealing.
- Redwood and Iroko offer natural beauty if you prefer real wood and do not mind regular maintenance.
- Pressure-treated Douglas fir works great for hidden structural framing because it handles moisture well.
Will my new deck need a lot of maintenance?
That depends entirely on what you build it out of. Wood Deck Construction requires cleaning, sanding, and staining every year or two to keep the Southern California sun from turning the wood gray and splintering. Composite Deck Construction options just need a quick wash with soap and water a couple of times a year to get rid of dust and pollen.
Can we build over existing concrete patios?
Often yes, but it depends on the slope and condition of the concrete slab. Inglewood Deck Creations has to make sure water drains properly away from your foundation instead of pooling under the new framing. Sometimes we can use low-profile sleepers, while other times we need to pour proper footings to keep the structure secure and up to code.
For homes and businesses in Inglewood, Inglewood Deck Creations provides Deck Construction services.