Building A Deck Over A Septic Tank
It is usually not a good idea to build a deck near or on top of a septic tank. Most zoning ordinances will require that you maintain at least a 5' setback from an underground septic system. Installing frost footings and applying deck loads over a septic tank could result in damaging the tank or waste lines. A punctured septic tank will create a terrible mess and an expensive problem. Septic tanks also require access for maintenance. Abandoned or out of use septic tanks should also be avoided. Some older properties have buried septic systems that are not marked on surveys along with other utilities and easements. This can be an unpleasant surprise when installing footings for a deck.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
Questions To Ask Your Deck Contractor
The quest to find the right contractor to complete your decking project can feel overwhelming and stressful. Learn more about what questions you should ask before hiring a contractor on decks.com
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Planning and installing a DIY brick or stone paver patio is a big project. Learn how to build a paver patio from start to finish here.
Backyard Patio Ideas and Inspiration for 2024
Looking for ideas on how to decorate and design your patio? We’ve compiled ideas for all types of patio designs. Find your inspiration at Decks.com.
Options for Adding Electric Fixtures To Your Porch
Adding electric fixtures to a porch can allow you to enjoy your outdoor space in new ways. Learn more about adding electric fixtures to your porch at Decks.com
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Contractor Problems? How to Communicate with Contractors and Handle Disputes
When working on a large construction project, there are bound to be bumps in the road. Learn how to handle disputes with a contractor with Decks.com.
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
9 Conservatory Design Ideas for Indoor/Outdoor Living
Conservatories are a great way to ensure that you (and your plants) can soak up the sun all year round. Get inspired with conservatory design ideas.
How to Install & Build a Porch Roof
It's important to know the propper matierials neded to build a porch roof to prevent water damage. Read more about building a porch roof at Decks.com.
Parts of a Porch
Porches, just like decks, have a lot of different & important parts. Learn more about the anatomy of a standard porch with this article from Decks.com.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights