Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a new deck comes with a lot of decisions — from choosing the right decking material and layout to understanding permits, timelines, railings, lighting, and long-term maintenance.
Heritage Deck Co. helps homeowners throughout Carmel and the Indianapolis area plan and build custom outdoor spaces designed around their homes, lifestyles, and long-term goals.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about custom deck design, deck construction, replacement, materials, permits, and the building process.
About Heritage Deck Co.
What does Heritage Deck Co. specialize in?
Heritage Deck Co. specializes in custom deck design and construction for homeowners throughout Central Indiana. We build new decks, replace aging decks, resurface qualifying existing structures, install railing systems, integrate deck lighting, and design additional outdoor features such as pergolas.
Our projects range from straightforward backyard decks to larger custom outdoor living spaces with premium decking, stairs, railings, lighting, seating, and other design features.
Why should I choose Heritage Deck Co. for my deck project?
A great deck involves much more than installing decking boards.
We focus on the entire system — layout, footings, framing, connections, moisture management, decking, stairs, railings, lighting, and finishing details. Just as importantly, we put an emphasis on planning and communication before construction begins.
Our goal is to give homeowners a deck that looks great on completion day while also being structurally sound, practical, and built for long-term use.
How much experience does the Heritage Deck Co. team have?
Our team brings more than 40 years of combined carpentry and construction experience to the projects we build.
Heritage Deck Co. was established as a deck-focused company by the experienced team behind McFarland Outdoors, allowing us to concentrate specifically on custom decks and outdoor living projects.
Is Heritage Deck Co. licensed and insured?
Yes. Heritage Deck Co. is a licensed and insured deck builder.
We build with proper structural practices and applicable building requirements in mind, including footings, framing, connections, stairs, railings, and other safety-critical parts of the deck.
What areas does Heritage Deck Co. serve?
We are based in Carmel, Indiana and build decks throughout the greater Indianapolis area, including communities such as:
- Carmel
- Indianapolis
- Fishers
- Noblesville
- Westfield
- Zionsville
- Plainfield
If you’re located nearby but don’t see your city listed, contact us to find out whether your property is within our current service area.
Planning Your Deck Project
How do I get started with a new deck?
The best place to start is with a consultation.
We’ll discuss your existing outdoor space, how you want to use the deck, approximate size, preferred style, material options, budget considerations, and any features you may want to include.
From there, we can begin developing a direction for the layout and overall scope of the project.
Do I need to know exactly what kind of deck I want before contacting you?
No.
Many homeowners know they want a better outdoor space but haven’t decided on the exact dimensions, decking material, railing style, stairs, lighting, or other details.
That is part of the planning process.
We can help you compare options and determine what makes sense for your home, backyard, intended use, maintenance expectations, and budget.
Can Heritage Deck Co. help design my deck?
Yes. Every custom deck starts with planning the space around the home and the way the homeowner intends to use it.
Important considerations can include:
- Deck size and shape
- Traffic flow
- Furniture placement
- Dining and entertaining areas
- Stairs and yard access
- Railing layout
- Privacy
- Sun and shade
- Decking material
- Lighting
- Built-in seating
- Drink rails
- Pergolas or covered areas
Planning these elements together usually produces a better finished deck than treating each feature as a separate decision later in the project.
What should I prepare before my deck consultation?
You don’t need a complete design before contacting us, but it can help to think about:
- How you plan to use the deck
- Approximately how many people you want it to accommodate
- Features you definitely want
- Features you are considering
- Material or color preferences
- Photos of decks you like
- Your approximate budget
- HOA requirements you already know about
- Any known property restrictions
We can work through the remaining details together.
Can you build a deck where there isn't one now?
Yes. Heritage Deck Co. builds completely new decks as well as replacement decks.
For new construction, the layout can be planned around the home, backyard, access points, elevation, property restrictions, and how you want to use the space.
Can you replace an existing deck?
Yes.
If your current deck is outdated, deteriorating, poorly designed, or no longer fits your needs, we can evaluate the existing structure and determine the appropriate approach.
Depending on its condition, that may mean resurfacing portions of the existing structure or removing the deck and constructing a new one.
Can an old deck be resurfaced instead of completely replaced?
Sometimes.
Deck resurfacing generally means keeping a structurally sound frame while replacing decking boards, railings, stairs, or other visible components.
Before recommending resurfacing, the underlying framing needs to be evaluated. Joists, beams, posts, footings, ledger connections, and other structural components should be in suitable condition before investing in a new deck surface.
If the structure has significant deterioration, movement, rot, or outdated construction, replacement may make more sense.
Deck Permits, HOA Requirements & Building Codes
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Indiana?
Many deck projects require permits, but the exact requirements depend on the municipality, project size, height, attachment method, location, and other structural characteristics.
Requirements can also differ between Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, Zionsville, and surrounding communities.
Part of properly planning a deck is determining which local requirements apply before construction begins.
Does my HOA need to approve my deck?
If your property is governed by a homeowners association, HOA approval may be required before construction.
An HOA may have rules regarding:
- Deck size
- Placement
- Setbacks
- Materials
- Colors
- Railing styles
- Privacy features
- Pergolas or roof structures
We recommend reviewing your neighborhood’s current architectural guidelines early in the planning process so HOA requirements can be considered before the final design is developed.
Do I need a property survey before building a deck?
That depends on the property and project.
A survey can be particularly useful when the deck will be close to property lines, easements, setbacks, or other restricted areas.
Knowing exactly where these boundaries are can prevent design changes, approval problems, and property disputes later.
How close can my deck be to the property line?
Setback requirements vary by municipality, zoning classification, subdivision, HOA, and property.
There isn’t one universal distance that applies to every home in Central Indiana.
The deck should be planned using the requirements that apply specifically to your property.
Are decks required to follow building codes?
Yes.
Deck codes address important structural and safety requirements involving components such as:
- Footings
- Posts
- Beams
- Joists
- Ledger connections
- Fasteners
- Stairs
- Guards and railings
- Load capacity
These aren’t simply cosmetic requirements. Proper construction directly affects the safety, stability, and longevity of the deck.
Can you replace an existing deck?
Yes.
If your current deck is outdated, deteriorating, poorly designed, or no longer fits your needs, we can evaluate the existing structure and determine the appropriate approach.
Depending on its condition, that may mean resurfacing portions of the existing structure or removing the deck and constructing a new one.
Can an old deck be resurfaced instead of completely replaced?
Sometimes.
Deck resurfacing generally means keeping a structurally sound frame while replacing decking boards, railings, stairs, or other visible components.
Before recommending resurfacing, the underlying framing needs to be evaluated. Joists, beams, posts, footings, ledger connections, and other structural components should be in suitable condition before investing in a new deck surface.
If the structure has significant deterioration, movement, rot, or outdated construction, replacement may make more sense.
Deck Construction & Installation
How long does it take to build a deck?
Construction time varies significantly depending on the project.
A relatively straightforward deck may be completed much faster than a large custom project involving multiple levels, complex stairs, premium railings, lighting, pergolas, or extensive site preparation.
Weather, inspections, material availability, permitting, and project complexity can also affect the schedule.
Before construction begins, we’ll give you a clearer understanding of what to expect for your particular project.
What can affect the deck construction timeline?
Several factors can influence how quickly a deck can be completed, including:
- Overall deck size
- Design complexity
- Existing deck demolition
- Site access
- Footing requirements
- Deck elevation
- Number of stairs
- Railing complexity
- Lighting installation
- Pergolas or other structures
- Material availability
- Inspections
- Weather conditions
We prefer to establish a realistic project scope rather than give every homeowner the same generic construction timeline.
Do you remove an existing deck before building the new one?
When a project requires a complete tear-out and rebuild, the existing deck can be removed before new construction begins.
This also provides an opportunity to start with a layout and structural system designed specifically for the new deck instead of being limited by the previous structure.
How should I prepare my yard before construction starts?
Before construction, it’s helpful to remove personal items from the work area and make sure the crew has reasonable access to the project site.
Depending on the property, this may include moving:
- Patio furniture
- Grills
- Planters
- Outdoor decorations
- Children’s toys
- Yard equipment
Pets should also be kept safely away from the active construction area.
Any private underground utilities or systems that could be affected should be identified before excavation begins.
What happens if the weather is bad during construction?
Outdoor construction is naturally affected by weather.
Heavy rain, severe storms, frozen ground, extreme conditions, or other circumstances can occasionally delay portions of the project.
We would rather adjust the construction schedule when necessary than compromise workmanship simply to maintain an unrealistic deadline.
Can decks be built during colder months in Indiana?
Deck construction isn’t limited exclusively to summer.
Whether work can proceed depends on the type of project, ground conditions, weather, materials, and the specific construction activities being performed.
Indiana weather can be unpredictable, so scheduling is evaluated based on actual project and site conditions.
Will the job site be cleaned after construction?
A professionally managed deck project should include an organized work area and cleanup as construction progresses.
Our objective is not only to deliver a finished deck but to treat the homeowner’s property respectfully throughout the building process.
Decking Materials
What types of decking does Heritage Deck Co. install?
We build decks using several material systems, including:
- Composite decking
- PVC decking
- Pressure-treated wood
- Cedar and other appropriate wood options
We also work with premium decking systems such as TimberTech and AZEK products.
The best choice depends on your priorities for appearance, maintenance, durability, performance, and budget.
Is composite decking better than wood?
Neither material is automatically best for every homeowner.
Composite decking is popular because it requires less routine maintenance and doesn’t need the periodic staining and sealing associated with traditional wood decking.
Wood offers a natural appearance and may have a lower initial material cost, but it typically requires more maintenance over its lifetime.
We can help you compare the long-term tradeoffs rather than choosing based only on upfront price.
What is the difference between composite and PVC decking?
Composite decking generally combines wood-based fibers with synthetic materials, while PVC decking is made without wood fibers.
Both are designed as lower-maintenance alternatives to traditional wood.
PVC can provide particularly strong resistance to moisture, while composite products are available in a wide range of appearances, performance levels, and price points.
The right material depends on your deck’s environment, design, budget, and the look you prefer.
What decking material requires the least maintenance?
Composite and PVC decking are generally the most attractive choices for homeowners who want to minimize staining, sealing, splintering, and other maintenance associated with traditional wood decks.
That doesn’t mean they require zero care. Periodic cleaning is still important, but routine maintenance is typically much simpler.
What decking material works well for Indiana weather?
Central Indiana decks experience hot summers, rain, snow, moisture, freezing temperatures, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Long-term performance depends on more than the surface material. Proper drainage, ventilation, spacing, flashing, framing, fasteners, and moisture management are also important.
We consider the complete deck system when selecting materials and planning construction.
Railings, Lighting & Custom Deck Features
What types of deck railings can you install?
Railing can dramatically change both the appearance and functionality of a deck.
Depending on the project, options may include metal railing systems, composite railing, cable railing, traditional styles, contrasting finishes, and drink rails.
We consider the railing as part of the overall deck design rather than an accessory selected at the last minute.
Can you add lighting to my deck?
Yes.
Low-voltage deck lighting can be incorporated into a new deck to improve visibility, safety, and nighttime use.
Lighting can be integrated into areas such as:
- Stair risers
- Railing posts
- Post caps
- Deck perimeters
- Seating areas
- Transitions between outdoor spaces
Planning lighting during the deck design stage also allows wiring and transformers to be integrated more cleanly into the finished project.
Can deck lighting be added to the stairs?
Yes.
Stair lighting is one of the most practical locations for low-voltage deck lighting because it helps define each step after dark while also adding a finished appearance to the deck.
Do you build pergolas?
Yes. Pergolas can be incorporated into an outdoor living project to create shade, define a seating area, and add architectural interest to the deck.
Options can include aluminum, composite, motorized, prefabricated, and custom pergola configurations depending on the project.
Can you add built-in seating to a deck?
Yes.
Built-in benches and other seating features can be incorporated when they make sense for the design.
They can be particularly useful for entertainment spaces where maximizing usable seating without overcrowding the deck with furniture is important.
Can you add a drink rail?
Yes.
Drink rails create a wider usable surface along the top of the railing and can work well around entertaining areas.
Material, color, and railing combinations can be coordinated with the rest of the deck.
Can I combine different decking colors or materials?
Yes.
Picture-frame borders, divider boards, contrasting railings, and coordinated decking colors can be used to create a more custom appearance.
These details work best when they are planned as part of the overall design rather than added randomly after material selection.
Deck Cost, Warranty & Long-Term Ownership
How much does a new deck cost?
There isn’t a useful one-size-fits-all price for a custom deck.
Cost depends on variables such as:
- Deck size
- Decking material
- Framing requirements
- Height
- Stairs
- Railings
- Demolition
- Site conditions
- Lighting
- Pergolas
- Built-in features
- Design complexity
A smaller wood deck and a large premium PVC deck with custom railing and integrated lighting are fundamentally different projects.
The best way to establish a realistic budget is to define the scope and material choices first.
Is composite decking more expensive than wood?
Composite and PVC decking generally have a higher initial material cost than basic pressure-treated wood.
However, homeowners should also consider maintenance and longevity when comparing materials.
Wood may require staining, sealing, refinishing, or board replacement over time, while premium composite and PVC systems are designed to significantly reduce those maintenance requirements.
Does Heritage Deck Co. offer a warranty?
Warranty coverage depends on the materials and products selected for the project.
Qualifying decking and railing systems may include extensive manufacturer warranty coverage, and Heritage Deck Co. provides warranty information applicable to the specific system being installed.
Because warranty duration and coverage vary between manufacturers and product lines, we recommend reviewing the exact warranty terms for the materials selected for your deck.
How long should a professionally built deck last?
There isn’t one lifespan that applies to every deck.
Longevity depends on the decking material, framing, drainage, moisture exposure, construction quality, maintenance, and environmental conditions.
A deck built with proper structural details and appropriate materials should be viewed as a long-term improvement to the home rather than a temporary outdoor feature.
What maintenance will my deck need?
Maintenance depends heavily on the decking material.
Wood decks typically require more periodic cleaning, staining, sealing, and inspection.
Composite and PVC decks generally require much less routine maintenance, although they should still be cleaned and inspected periodically.
Regardless of the surface material, it’s smart to occasionally inspect railings, stairs, fasteners, framing, and other structural components.
What if I have questions after my deck is finished?
Our involvement doesn’t end the moment construction is complete.
During the final walkthrough, we can review the finished project, answer questions, and discuss appropriate care for the materials used on your deck.
If questions arise afterward, you can contact the Heritage Deck Co. team for assistance.
Still Have Questions About Your Deck Project?
Every property and every deck is different.
Whether you’re considering a brand-new custom deck, replacing an aging structure, upgrading to composite or PVC decking, adding new railings, incorporating low-voltage lighting, or creating a larger outdoor living space, Heritage Deck Co. can help you determine the right direction for your home.
Call Heritage Deck Co. at 317-793-9359 or schedule a consultation to discuss your project.
We serve homeowners throughout Carmel, Indianapolis, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, Zionsville, Plainfield, and surrounding Central Indiana communities.