Looking for the best deck builders in Spokane, WA? This honest 2025 review compares four top-rated companies—Dynamic Decks, Ridgeline Decks, Spokane Deck and Cover, and Pacific Northwest Decks—based on real reviews, experience, craftsmanship, and what actually happens on the job site. Discover who really stands out and what to look for before you hire.

TimberTech vs Trex: Which composite decking is better in 2025? Discover the key differences based on real-world performance, heat resistance, and long-term durability.

Building a deck is an exciting project, but deciding between DIY and hiring a professional can be challenging, especially in Spokane’s unique climate. This guide explores the pros and cons of both options, helping you weigh cost, time, and expertise. Learn about Spokane-specific challenges like weather, permits, and site preparation, and discover hybrid approaches that combine DIY effort with professional expertise. Whether you’re considering framing the deck yourself or hiring a pro for the entire build, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision. Ready to get started? Contact us here for expert guidance.

Wooden decks in Spokane face unique challenges due to the region’s harsh climate, from moisture damage and temperature swings to intense UV exposure and pest infestations. Most decks we replace have suffered from a lack of regular maintenance, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided. This comprehensive guide explores common issues, maintenance tips, and practical solutions to help homeowners protect their investment and extend the life of their decks. Whether you’re dealing with warping, mold, or considering alternatives like composite decking, you’ll find actionable advice to keep your outdoor space beautiful and functional.

Yes, you can build a deck directly on the ground, but there are important factors to consider to ensure safety, stability, and longevity. From using the right materials like pressure-treated lumber or composite decking to properly preparing the ground with concrete blocks, this guide covers everything you need to know about creating a functional, durable ground-level deck. Learn the step-by-step process, local code requirements, and maintenance tips to make your ground-level deck a success.

Building deck stairs may seem complex, but with careful planning and the right techniques, it’s achievable. In this guide, we break down every step of the process—from measuring and cutting stringers to installing treads and handrails. We also ensure compliance with Spokane’s building codes, making your stairs both safe and visually appealing. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or looking to hire a pro, this article has you covered.

Understanding Deck Permit Requirements Building a deck is an excellent way to enhance your outdoor space, but one important question is, “Do I need a permit to build a deck in Spokane?” The answer is often yes. Local regulations, especially those specific to the heavy snow loads in Spokane, Washington, make obtaining a deck permit essential. At Pacific Northwest Decks, we specialize in guiding homeowners through the entire permitting process to ensure safety, compliance, and peace of mind. In this blog post, we’ll cover why permits are required, how to obtain them, and what happens if you build without one. Why You Need a Building Permit for Deck Construction  Ensures Safety and Compliance The main reason for getting a permit is to ensure that your deck complies with Spokane deck regulations and safety codes. Building codes exist to make sure that structures like decks can withstand environmental stressors like heavy snowfall, which is common in Spokane. Key compliance requirements include: Footings must be at least 2 feet deep to reach below the frost line. Railings must be 36 inches tall if the deck height exceeds 32 inches. Stairs with more than 7 steps need middle support to prevent sagging. Permits ensure that all these aspects are checked and approved, preventing potential hazards. If you’re planning a deck build, take a look at our guide on How to Build a Deck for more insight. Protects Against Faulty Construction Permits are a critical safety measure to protect against poor construction. The process requires detailed deck plans, which Spokane’s local building authorities review for compliance. Proper review catches potential issues, such as inadequate footing depth, missing stair support, or undersized joists, before they turn into safety risks. At Pacific Northwest Decks, we’ve assisted many homeowners in Spokane with their deck permit applications, ensuring their projects meet Spokane’s deck building regulations. Helps Maintain Property Value Building your deck with the correct Spokane deck permits helps maintain and even enhance your property’s value. When you decide to sell, having a permit in place assures potential buyers that the deck was built to code. It also makes the inspection process smoother, avoiding potential issues that could slow down or derail the sale. To learn more about how investing in a compliant deck impacts your home’s value, read our article on How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck?. When Is a Deck Building Permit Required? Varies by Location and Deck Size Permit requirements vary based on local regulations and the size of your deck. In Spokane, the following generally require a permit: Decks taller than 32 inches off the ground. Decks larger than 200 square feet. Decks with stairs, railings, or other safety features. Even for lower-level decks, it’s always best to confirm with the local building department to ensure compliance with Spokane deck regulations. Typically Required for Structures Over a Certain Height or Size If your deck exceeds a certain height or size, a permit is typically required. This ensures that the deck meets critical safety standards, such as railing height and stair stability. For example, decks over 32 inches must have railings at least 36 inches tall, while decks with longer staircases need middle supports. How to Obtain a Deck Permit Contacting Your Local Building Department Your first step in obtaining a permit is contacting your local building department. They can provide you with specific requirements for your deck, including necessary plans and documents. At Pacific Northwest Decks, we offer guidance through this process to ensure everything is done correctly. Submitting Necessary Plans and Documents When submitting plans for a Spokane deck permit, you’ll need: Site plans showing the deck’s layout in relation to property lines (setback requirements). Detailed framing plans, including beam calculations and footing details. Your home address, along with homeowner and contractor information. Plans are reviewed to ensure they comply with Spokane’s building codes, including snow load requirements, railing height, and footing depth. Pacific Northwest Decks’ Expertise and Fees At Pacific Northwest Decks, we manage the entire permitting process for you. While the average permit cost in Spokane is around $600, our service fee is $1,200. This covers drafting detailed plans, submitting them to the city, and handling the permitting process to ensure compliance and save you time. If you’re interested in a hassle-free permit process, contact us today. Paying Applicable Fees The permit application fee itself typically costs around $600 in Spokane. This fee covers plan reviews, inspections, and administrative processing. It’s an essential step in ensuring that your deck complies with local building codes. Permit Application Checklist To help you get started, here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need to apply for a Spokane deck permit: Complete the permit application with home and contractor information. Prepare a detailed site plan showing setback requirements. Include framing plans, beam calculations, and footing details. Submit the plans to the local building department. Pay applicable fees. Following this checklist ensures a smoother application process and helps prevent delays. Potential Consequences of Building a Deck Without a Permit  Fines and Penalties Building without a permit can lead to fines and additional permit fees. However, the biggest cost often comes from having to modify or rebuild the deck to comply with Spokane deck regulations. In some cases, entire decks have had to be removed and rebuilt, doubling the cost. Difficulty Selling or Insuring Your Home Homeowners in Spokane have reported that insurance companies are using drones to inspect properties. If they discover an unpermitted deck, coverage could be denied, or you could be required to bring the deck up to code to maintain insurance. Proper permitting helps prevent these complications when selling or insuring your home. Safety Risks for Yourself and Others Building a deck without a permit increases safety risks. Unpermitted decks may lack proper support, railing height, or structural stability, potentially leading to accidents. Ensuring that your deck meets Spokane’s safety standards protects everyone who uses it. Unlicensed Contractors & Permit Avoidance If your contractor suggests bypassing the permitting process,

Curious about the cost of building a deck in Spokane, Washington? This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know, from the average prices for wood and composite decks to optional discounts that can save you money. Learn how different deck sizes, materials, and features impact overall cost, and discover how a deck can boost your home’s value by up to 72%. Ready to transform your outdoor space? Let’s dive in!

Thinking of building a deck in Spokane, Washington? This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process, from planning and choosing materials to the final touches. Discover the essentials of framing, decking, and meeting local codes while learning how to create a functional and beautiful outdoor space that complements your home.