Common questions
How much does a deck cost in Tampa?
It depends on the size, the height off the ground, the board line you pick, and add-ons like railings, stairs and lighting. We price every deck after a site visit and give you a written quote with each item listed. The Tampa deck cost guide explains what moves the price up or down.
Do I need a permit for a deck in Tampa Bay?
Almost always. Attached decks, raised decks and most freestanding decks need a building permit in Tampa, St. Petersburg and unincorporated Hillsborough and Pinellas. We pull the permit and meet the inspector. Details are in our deck permit guide.
Composite or wood for a Florida deck?
Composite costs more up front but doesn't rot, splinter or need staining, which matters in Florida sun, rain and salt air. Pressure-treated pine is the budget option and still makes sense for some raised framing and rentals. Our composite vs. wood guide compares them side by side.
How long does it take to build a deck?
Most decks take one to two weeks of work on site once materials and the permit are in hand. Permit review usually adds two to four weeks before we start.
Which areas do you serve?
Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, the Pinellas beaches, Brandon, Riverview, Apollo Beach, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota and southern Pasco. See all service areas.
Does composite decking get hot?
Yes, all composite and PVC boards warm up in direct sun, and dark colors get hottest. Lighter colors, heat-reducing product lines and shade over part of the deck all help.
Can you put composite boards on my existing deck frame?
Sometimes. If the old frame is solid, level and spaced tightly enough, we can resurface it. Many older Tampa Bay decks were framed at 16 or 24 inches, though, and composite needs closer spacing. We check every joist before recommending a resurface.
Does Trex fade in Florida sun?
Capped Trex boards hold color far better than older uncapped composite or wood, but every board weathers a little in strong UV. Lighter and multi-tone colors hide it best. Trex's warranty terms cover fade and stain for a set number of years depending on the line.
How long does a wood deck last in Florida?
With good footings, the right lumber and regular sealing, a pressure-treated deck can last well over a decade. Without upkeep, boards can start to rot and split in just a few years in Tampa Bay's heat and rain.
Can you reuse my old deck frame?
Only if it's solid, level and spaced tightly enough for the new boards. We check every joist and post first. Old frames built at 16 or 24 inches usually need new joists for composite.
Does my deck need a railing?
In general, Florida code requires a guard on any deck surface more than 30 inches above the ground below. Even on lower decks, a railing or post-and-rope edge along steps adds safety.
Do you charge for estimates?
No. The site visit and written quote are free.
Can I replace deck boards without a permit?
Board-for-board cosmetic repairs often don't need a permit, but replacing structure (joists, beams, posts, ledger) or the whole deck usually does. Rules vary by city, so we check before we start.
What's your payment schedule?
50% to start, 30% when framing is complete, and 20% at completion after a walk-through with you.
Do you remove the old deck?
Yes. Demolition and haul-off are listed as their own line on the quote. If you'd like to tear it out yourself, we take that line off.
Can you add a pergola later?
Yes, and if you tell us during the deck build, we add blocking in the framing where the pergola posts will land so it bolts down solidly.