Outdoor Space You Will Actually Use

Custom Deck Construction in Decorah, Iowa

A deck gives you a place to sit outside without dragging chairs across the lawn or dealing with uneven ground and mud after it rains. Homes in Decorah with walkout basements or sloped yards benefit from decks that create usable outdoor space where the yard drops off or the grade is too steep for furniture. Farley Construction LLC builds custom decks designed to fit your property, complement your home, and hold up under snow, sun, and freeze-thaw cycles.

Deck construction starts with understanding how you will use the space and where it makes sense to attach or position the structure. We design for safety, drainage, and long-term durability, using treated lumber or composite decking depending on your preferences and budget. Posts are set in concrete below frost line, joists are spaced to code, and railings are installed to meet height and spacing requirements without blocking sight lines.

Call today for a free deck estimate in Decorah and talk through layout, materials, and what the project timeline looks like.

Built for Safety and Long-Term Performance

Deck building in Decorah begins with layout and excavation for footings. We dig post holes below frost depth, pour concrete, and set posts level and plumb. Beams and joists are fastened with galvanized hardware, and decking boards are installed with consistent spacing for drainage and expansion. Railings, stairs, and trim are added last, and all fasteners are rated for outdoor exposure to prevent rust and loosening over time.

When the deck is finished, you step onto a surface that feels solid underfoot, with no bounce or flex in the boards. Railings are secure and meet code for spacing, and stairs are built at a comfortable rise and run. Water drains off the deck without pooling, and the structure is attached to your home with proper flashing to prevent moisture intrusion.

We use pressure-treated lumber for framing and posts, with options for composite or cedar decking depending on your priorities for maintenance and appearance. Stairs can be built to grade level or connected to walkways, and lighting or electrical outlets can be added during construction. The project includes a final inspection to confirm code compliance, and we clean up and haul away scrap materials when the work is complete.

Most Homeowners Ask About This First

Questions about deck projects typically focus on material choices, maintenance, and how the structure attaches to the home without causing leaks or damage.

What is the difference between treated lumber and composite decking?
Treated lumber costs less and is stronger for framing but requires staining or sealing every few years. Composite decking resists rot and fading, requires no sealing, but costs more upfront.
How deep do you set the posts?
Posts are set in concrete footings at least 42 inches deep to stay below frost line. This prevents heaving and shifting during freeze-thaw cycles.
How do you attach the deck to the house?
We use a ledger board bolted through the rim joist with lag screws and install flashing to direct water away from the connection. This prevents moisture damage and keeps the deck secure.
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Decorah?
Yes, most decks require a building permit and inspection. We pull the permit and schedule inspections for footings and final construction as part of the project.
How long does it take to build a deck?
Most decks are completed in one to two weeks depending on size and complexity. Weather and material availability can affect timing, and we keep you updated throughout the process.

Farley Construction LLC builds custom decks in Decorah that add outdoor living space and hold up to local weather year after year. Contact us to schedule a free estimate and walk through your options.