Multi-Level Deck Precautions
"Multi-level decks can be incredibly personalized to your space and needs, which means more complexity when it comes to design, requirements, and permitting."
Building a deck is a big project, and whether you decide to take it on yourself or enlist the help of a professional, knowing what a decking project entails is essential to a successful install.
In part two of our decking series, we’re going to share just that. We’re joined by one of the greater Seattle area’s premier deck builders: former co-founder of West Coast Decks, Joel Skillingstead. Joel has been building decks in the Pacific Northwest since 1990. With more than 30 years of experience building, overseeing, and waterproofing deck projects large and small, Joel is one of the best resources out there.
In this episode, we discuss what you need to consider and be aware of specifically for multi-level decks. The more levels you have, the more complexity you’re dealing with! Watch the video above or keep reading for a detailed recap.
What to consider for multi-level decks
Before you start your project, it’s important to have a clear idea of how you envision the space being used and by whom. For example:
- What type of structure do you want in your backyard?
- How will the deck connect the home to the backyard?
- How do you anticipate using the deck—do you have a big family and want to get lots of people on the deck at one time? Are you planning to hold parties? Are there just two of you usually enjoying the space?
Answering these questions will help define your project and give you a good starting point for design.
Why hire a professional for a multi-level deck project
According to Joel, multi-level decks are really interesting—and fun—to design because there are so many different elements to consider.
If you’re embarking on a simpler, one-level or ground-level deck project, you may be in a position to consider whether you can complete the project yourself or hire a professional. (This post has helpful questions to help you determine if you can DIY your deck or need help.) When it comes to multi-level decks, the different levels add a higher level of complexity to the project. This is true for the design but also for permitting and the actual construction. So it’s a smart idea to have professional support when designing and building a multi-level deck. They’ll be able to help you successfully design a deck that fits your needs and space—with multi-level decks, this often includes designing the deck to keep the area below it functional to maximize your space and have the option to add in a patio or flower bed—as well as meeting local building guidelines.
What permits are needed for multi-level decks
Every municipality has its own permitting requirements, and not all decks require permits. That said, typically a deck’s proposed elevation makes a difference in whether the project requires a permit or not. Since multi-level decks are higher and situated at varying levels off the ground, they do require plan reviews and permitting. So, unless you’re an architect or engineer, you’ll likely want to hire a professional to help you through the process and ensure your design meets current building codes.
Building considerations for multi-level decks
When you’re building a multi-level deck that is high off the ground or has different deck platforms at different heights, there are several design and building elements to keep in mind. While you would need to be aware of the three considerations listed below for all decks, they’re particularly important for multi-level decks.
- How the deck is attached to the house: In the past couple of decades, permits and building requirements have focused more on how a deck is attached to the house, or the lateral sway bracing. This is to ensure a deck won’t naturally pull away from the house over time and will stay attached during an event like an earthquake, something we certainly need to be aware of in the Pacific Northwest.
- How high the railings are: Railing requirements may change based on how high the deck is off the ground. For example, third-story deck levels may need 42-inch railings, while levels lower than three stories may only require 36-inch railings. You also want to consider the height of the people who will be using the deck. If one of the owners is very tall, they’ll likely want higher railings.
- Heavy load considerations: Multi-level decks are naturally built to carry heavy loads, but if you want to add a particularly hefty element to the deck, like a hot tub, that will need to be built into your initial design and building plans. It is possible to have a hot tub up on an elevated deck, but the structure below this area will need to be significantly stronger.
If you’re considering building a new deck, repairing an old deck, or simply cleaning and sprucing up your current deck, our Dunn Solutions library has a number of decking video series, trusted decking resources, and posts to help point you in the right direction and embark on your decking project.
