Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best decking material? 

Choosing the right decking material depends on your budget, desired aesthetics, and willingness to perform maintenance. Here are the pros and cons of the three types of decking we use.


-Pros: Widely available, affordable, resistant to insects and rot when maintained properly.

-Cons: Requires regular maintenance (sealing and staining), can warp or crack over time. 


-Pros: Low maintenance, resistant to rot, mold, and insects, available in various colors and textures.

-Cons: More expensive than wood, can get hot in direct sunlight, and some brands may look less natural. 


-Pros: Low maintenance, resistant to moisture, mold, and insects, lightweight, more heat resistant and durable than composite.

-Cons: More expensive than composite.


Will the deck builder handle permits and inspections?

At STL Decks and Carpentry, we handle all building permits and inspections on behalf of our customers. City/county fees for these services are included in our pricing. The permit process typically involves submitting a site plan and detailed drawings of the intended deck project along with an application fee.  

Two or three inspections are required depending on the jurisdiction; these may include footing, framing, and a final inspection. The initial deposit we require to schedule a project helps cover the permit application. 

We send our customers documentation at every point of the process, from submitting the permit application to passing each inspection. We do not collect a final payment for our work until the final inspection has been passed. 

What is the average cost to build a deck?

The average cost to build a deck can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the deck, materials used, design complexity, labor costs and permit fees in your area, and any additional features or amenities. 

The most influential factors in our deck pricing are the size of the deck and specific materials you choose. Composite/PVC decking and aluminum or vinyl railing are more expensive than treated wood upfront but require less maintenance over time. Prices of composite and PVC decking vary widely depending on the collection and color you choose. At your initial consultation, we will show you samples of the different options based on your budget and desired aesthetics. 

In addition, we keep our overhead costs down by operating every aspect of the business ourselves - unlike in other companies that are out there, no detached CEOs, high-pressure salesmen or inexperienced crew members will be involved in the design or execution of your project. At STL Decks and Carpentry, the business owner performs every part of the design and build process rather than contracting out each step. That means consistency, quality control, and of course, savings on our operation costs. 

We pass those savings on to our customers, which means you achieve the best results for the money you invest in your deck. We believe that every homeowner deserves an affordable deck, and our competitive prices reflect that without compromising quality. Our goal is to provide the highest quality decks at the most affordable prices through our cost-efficient method of operation.