When a deck makes more sense than a patio
- The door sits several steps above the yard, so a patio would leave you walking down to it.
- The yard slopes or drops toward a canyon, and leveling it would mean large retaining walls.
- You want outdoor space off a second floor or above a garage or ADU.
- A view is only visible from a raised position.
Decking materials for San Diego conditions
- Redwood and cedar: a natural look, but they need regular sealing in strong sun.
- Pressure-treated lumber: the usual choice for framing and the lowest-cost surface.
- Tropical hardwoods such as ipe: very dense and long lasting, at a higher cost.
- Composite and PVC decking: low maintenance and stable in color, though dark boards run hot in full sun.
The structure under the boards
What makes a deck safe is out of sight: footings sized for the soil, posts and beams sized for the span, and a solid connection to the house. Where a deck attaches to the home, the ledger needs proper fasteners and flashing so water cannot get behind it and rot the framing.
Hillside and canyon lots often need deeper footings and engineering. Near the coast, stainless or coated hardware resists salt air far better than plain steel.
Railings, stairs and roof decks
Raised decks need guardrails that meet code for height, strength and opening size. Cable, glass and metal picket railings keep a view open, and each has its own cost and upkeep.
A roof deck or a deck over living space is a different kind of project. It depends on a waterproofing system and drainage under the walking surface, and on a structure designed for the load.
Permits and wildfire zones
Whether a deck needs a permit depends on its height, its size, whether it attaches to the house and the city it is in. Decks raised well above the ground or attached to the home commonly do, and so do roof decks.
Parts of San Diego are in mapped fire hazard severity zones. Homes there can face ignition-resistant material requirements for decks, so check the address before choosing a decking product.
How a deck project with All Pro Contractor runs
- Site visit to review the house connection, grade, access and how the deck will be used.
- Written estimate covering the scope discussed, with design, engineering and permit responsibilities spelled out.
- Footings and framing, with inspections where a permit applies.
- Decking, stairs and railings, then a final walkthrough.