Family enjoying an A-DIY deck kit in a Philadelphia, PA backyard
Philadelphia, PA

Deck Builders Near Me in Philadelphia, PA? Build Your Own Deck With an A-DIY Kit

Build your own deck with professionally engineered, ready-to-assemble wood and composite deck kits, delivered curbside to rowhomes, twins and single homes across Philadelphia. Framing, decking, Tuff Block footings and hardware are included, so a drill is the only tool you need.

Contractor, Traditional DIY or Deck Kit: 3 Ways to Get a Deck in Philadelphia

Search “deck builders near me” in Philadelphia and you’ll find everything from roof-deck specialists to suburban crews. For a ground-level backyard deck, compare the three main routes, from hiring a deck contractor to assembling a DIY deck kit, and see which fits your yard, budget and schedule.

Hire a Philadelphia Deck Builder
Option 01

Hire a Philadelphia Deck Builder

A licensed Philadelphia contractor handles design, zoning and building permits with L&I, footings, framing and cleanup. It is the best fit for roof decks, second-story or attached decks and tight rowhome lots. Get written quotes and confirm the contractor holds a City of Philadelphia contractor license.

Upfront cost
Your time & effort
Planning guesswork
Traditional DIY
Option 02

Traditional DIY

Pick up lumber, hardware and decking from a local yard, then work out the design, span tables, cuts and layout yourself. It suits experienced builders who own the tools and can carry long boards through a narrow alley or the house.

Upfront cost
Your time & effort
Planning guesswork
Finished A-DIY wood deck
I am far from a handyman but the wife wanted a deck in the backyard and I couldn’t see myself dishing out $20,000 for someone to come build it for us. I ended up seeing an ad for this company and was blown away by the price and ease of install. 2 of our neighbours ended up ordering as well!
Imran K. · Google review

Hiring a Deck Contractor in Philadelphia? Ask These Questions

  1. 01Are you licensed as a contractor with the City of Philadelphia?
  2. 02Can you show current liability and workers’ comp insurance?
  3. 03Will you file the zoning and building permits through eCLIPSE?
  4. 04Have you worked with the Historical Commission on historic properties?
  5. 05How deep will footings go, and how close can the deck sit to my property line?
  6. 06Which lumber grade and decking product is in the quote?
  7. 07Are stairs, railings, demolition and haul-away included?
  8. 08What is the payment schedule, start date and workmanship warranty?
Shop Deck Kits

Which deck is right for you?

Wood or composite. Two ways to make it yours. One remarkably simple way to build it.

Every A-DIY deck includes:

Engineered for

Engineered for

15,000+ lbs

Assembles in a

Assembles in a

few hours

Grade 1 Treated &

Grade 1 Treated &

Kiln-Dried Lumber

Professional-grade

Professional-grade

structural system

5-year structural

5-year structural

warranty

Engineered for

Engineered for

15,000+ lbs

Assembles in a

Assembles in a

few hours

Grade 1 Treated &

Grade 1 Treated &

Kiln-Dried Lumber

Professional-grade

Professional-grade

structural system

5-year structural

5-year structural

warranty

Best Selling

Wood Deck Kit

From$3,699.00

Grade 1 Southern Yellow Pine. Pressure Treated and Kiln Dried.

SHOP NOW →

Real wood beauty

Authentic Southern Yellow Pine with the warmth, texture, and character only real wood can offer.

Kiln-dried, pressure-treated lumber

Grade 1 lumber engineered to help reduce warping, twisting, and shrinking over time.

Finish it your way

Can be stained or sealed to match your home, your backyard, and your style.

Lower upfront investment

A more budget-friendly way to get a professional-grade deck system.

Ongoing maintenance required

Best for homeowners who don’t mind occasional sealing, staining, and upkeep.

Best for:

Homeowners who want the natural look of real wood and more flexibility at a lower starting price.

LOW MAINTENANCE

Composite Deck Kit

From$5,700.00

Engineered For Lasting Beauty.

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Premium wood-inspired finish

Rich, natural-looking colors designed to deliver the look of wood with a more refined finish.

Low-maintenance surface

No sanding, staining, or sealing required

Fade and splinter resistant

Built to stay beautiful season after season with less upkeep.

25-Year Warranty

Structural, stain & fade warranty on composite boards.

Premium long-term ownership

A higher-end option for homeowners who want less maintenance and more convenience.

Best for:

Homeowners who want the look of wood without the regular upkeep.

Planning a Deck in Philadelphia: Climate, Snow and Weather Considerations

Philadelphia’s weather swings from icy winter mornings to hot, humid summers with heavy thunderstorms. Freeze-thaw cycles, summer downpours and shaded, fenced-in city yards all affect where a deck should go and how it is maintained.

Built for Philadelphia’s four seasons Built for Philadelphia’s four seasons

Winter Storms and Ice

Philadelphia’s snow often arrives in a few big storms, with ice and thaws in between. Applicable A-DIY configurations are engineered to hold up to 15,000 lbs when properly assembled and supported. Clear snow with a plastic shovel and follow your decking’s guidance on ice melt.

Frost Line and Footings

L&I’s EZ Deck standard calls for footings 30 in. below grade for attached decks. Freestanding ground-level decks, like A-DIY kits that assemble 15–17 inches off the ground on Tuff Block footings, rest on the surface, so a firm, level base matters most.

Summer Downpours and Drainage

Heavy thunderstorms and the remnants of tropical systems can drop inches of rain in hours. Place the deck where water drains away from the house and basement, and keep airflow under the framing so it dries out.

Heat, Humidity and Shade

Humid summers and shaded, enclosed yards slow drying and invite mildew. Seal pressure-treated wood every one to two years, or choose composite decking for a surface that never needs staining.

≈23 in.

Average yearly snowfall at Philadelphia International Airport (1991–2020)

30 in.

Footing depth in L&I’s EZ Deck permit standard

15,000 lbs

Engineered load rating for applicable A-DIY decks

Apr – Oct

Typical deck-building window in Philadelphia

Homeowners enjoying a finished A-DIY deck in spring
Order in winter · build in spring

When Is the Best Time to Build a Deck in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia’s milder winters give it a longer building season than much of Pennsylvania. Most homeowners build from spring through fall, so plan and order in winter and start as soon as the ground dries out.

  1. Dec – FebPlan & permit

    Measure your yard, choose a size and material, start zoning paperwork and lock in today’s price.

  2. Mar – AprPrep the site

    Schedule delivery, level the build area and plan how components reach the backyard.

  3. May – JunBuild

    Comfortable temperatures before peak summer humidity, ideal for a weekend build.

  4. Jul – NovEnjoy & protect

    Use the deck all summer, then seal wood in early fall and clear leaves before winter.

Reserve for Spring Delivery — $250

A-DIY Reserve: a non-refundable $250 deposit holds today’s price for a future delivery date you choose.

How Does A-DIY Work for Philadelphia Homeowners?

  1. PLAN

    Choose the Size and Material

    Select an available deck size, pressure treated or composite surface and applicable options.

  2. PLAN

    Review the Property

    Confirm the available space, ground conditions, slope, proposed height, drainage and delivery access.

  3. PLAN

    Confirm Permits and Foundations

    Contact the local building department and select a suitable foundation system for the property.

  4. DELIVER

    Receive the Deck Kit

    The coordinated components are delivered to the property.

  5. BUILD

    Assemble It or Hire Local Help

    Complete the assembly yourself or hire a local handyman.

  6. BUILD

    Complete Required Inspections

    Arrange any inspections or final approvals required by the municipality.

A homeowner assembling A-DIY deck joists beside a travel trailer
WATCHHow Does A-DIY Work

What’s Included in Every A-DIY Deck Kit

Each A-DIY deck kit arrives as one coordinated system packed in a crate, so the only tool you supply is a drill. The driver bit is included.

Footings

Tuff Block footings for a stable, freestanding base.

6x6 Beams and 2x8 Joists

Heavy-duty 6x6 beams and 2x8 joists spaced 13–14 inches on center.

Decking Boards

Pre-sealed 5.5-inch pressure-treated boards or composite boards.

Hardware and Fasteners

Galvanized, corrosion-resistant screws and brackets, plus the driver bit.

Labeled, Color-Coded Parts

Every component is marked so you know where it goes.

Step-by-Step and 3D Instructions

A printed guide plus an online 3D instructional app.

Engineering Diagrams

Structural layout, beam and joist sizes and post locations for your permit questions.

Real Build Support

Deck specialists by phone and live chat from order to final board.

Exploded diagram of an A-DIY deck kit showing decking, joists, beams and footings

Make It Yours: Steps, Railings and Custom Sizes

Kits assemble 15–17 inches off the ground. Add steps, railings or a longer post kit with bracing for a raised deck, or ask about a size that isn’t listed. Our deck specialists will help you plan the right layout for your yard.

Uneven Ground, Elevated Decks and Foundation Options

An A-DIY deck may be installed over sloped or uneven ground by adjusting the supporting post heights to establish a level deck surface.

Elevated A-DIY deck with stairs and railings beside a home
A-DIY deck on adjustable posts over sloped ground
UP TO APPROX. 40inches Supported elevation

Supported Elevation

Supported configurations may be elevated to approximately 40 inches using the appropriate posts, foundations and bracing.

Depending on the height and configuration, the project may also require:

  • Longer posts
  • Additional bracing
  • Stairs
  • Railings
  • Additional engineering
  • Permit approval

Foundation and Footing Options

Depending on the property, configuration and local approval, suitable systems may include:

  • Sonotubes
  • Helical piles
  • Ground screws
  • In-ground posts
  • Approved surface footing systems
  • Other site-specific foundations

Philadelphia Deck Permits and Building Code Information

Philadelphia handles decks differently from its suburbs. The City enforces its own building code through the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I), and most decks also need zoning approval. Use the quick check, then confirm your project with L&I before you build.

Rule of thumb: in Philadelphia, a deck more than 12 inches above the ground generally needs a zoning permit, and attached decks also need a building permit.

Permit quick check

General guidance for Philadelphia-area decks

Is the deck attached to your house?
Yes
A permit is usually required
No
Is it more than 30 in. above grade?
Yes
Permit usually required
No
Often exempt*

*The City’s zoning permit exemption covers only decks no more than 12 in. above the ground and not over a basement or other story. L&I’s EZ Deck permit covers simple attached rear-yard decks without full plans. Properties on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places need Historical Commission review first.

Deck Permits & Building Codes in Philadelphia, PA

Inside City LimitsCity of Philadelphia

Inside City Limits

Zoning and building permits are issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) and filed online through eCLIPSE. On tight lots expect setback questions: L&I’s EZ Deck standard keeps decks in the rear yard and at least 3 ft from the rear property line.

Historic Properties and DistrictsPhiladelphia Historical Commission

Historic Properties and Districts

If your home is on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, individually or inside a historic district, the Historical Commission reviews the work before L&I issues permits. Check your address before ordering.

Just Over the City LineMontgomery, Bucks & Delaware counties

Just Over the City Line

Suburban townships and boroughs administer the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code themselves or through third-party agencies, with their own forms, fees and zoning rules. The counties do not issue building permits.

How to Get a Deck Permit in Philadelphia

  1. Step 1Check zoning and historic status

    Look up your property’s zoning and whether it is on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places.

  2. Step 2Prepare a site plan

    Show the deck’s size, height and distance to property lines. A-DIY engineering diagrams can help.

  3. Step 3Apply through eCLIPSE

    File your zoning and any building permit applications with L&I online and pay the filing fee.

  4. Step 4Pass inspections

    Schedule the inspections listed on your permit, then enjoy the deck.

Questions to Ask Your Building Department

  • Does my deck need a permit?
  • What setbacks apply to my lot?
  • Is a site plan or survey required?
  • How deep must the footings be?
  • Are stamped plans required?
  • Which inspections are required?
  • Are guards required at this height?
  • Can the homeowner do the work?
Not sure what your lot allows?

Our deck specialists can help you plan size, height and placement before you apply.

  • Dimensions
  • 2x8 joists
  • Beams
  • Post locations

Can A-DIY Diagrams Help With My Permit?

Yes. Engineering diagrams for applicable A-DIY configurations show dimensions, structural layout, beam and joist sizes and post locations to support your application. Your department may still ask for a survey, site plan or stamped documents.

Requirements change and can differ between neighboring municipalities. Always confirm current rules with your local building department before you build.

Deck Kit Delivery Across Philadelphia and Greater Philadelphia

A-DIY ships deck kits by LTL freight to homes in every Philadelphia neighborhood, from South Philly and Fishtown to Roxborough, Chestnut Hill and the Northeast. The carrier calls ahead to schedule curbside delivery, typically within 10–14 business days.

Philadelphia Deck FAQs

Are there deck builders near me in Philadelphia, or can I build a deck myself?

Both are options. For roof decks or second-story decks, a licensed Philadelphia contractor is the right call, so compare written quotes, proof of insurance and a City contractor license. For a ground-level backyard deck, A-DIY delivers professionally engineered wood and composite deck kits to Philadelphia homes, and you or a handyman can assemble one with just a drill.

How much does it cost to build a deck in Philadelphia, and is DIY cheaper?

Contractor prices in Philadelphia depend on size, height, yard access and permit work, so get several written quotes. A-DIY kits run from $3,699 for a 6x12 pressure-treated deck to $12,799 for a 16x28 composite deck, with framing, decking, footings and hardware included. Homeowners typically spend 30–50% less than hiring a contractor.

How much does a 12x12, 12x16 or 16x20 deck cost?

With A-DIY, a 12x12 deck kit is $4,899 in pressure-treated wood or $5,700 in composite. A 12x16 composite kit is $6,600; the closest wood size is 12x18 at $5,969. A 16x20 kit is $7,600 in wood or $10,199 in composite. Framing, decking, footings and hardware are included.

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Philadelphia?

Usually some approval is needed. The City’s zoning permit exemption covers only decks no more than 12 inches above the ground, so most decks need a zoning permit from the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I), filed online through eCLIPSE. Attached decks also need a building permit; L&I’s EZ Deck permit covers simple rear-yard decks without full plans. Confirm your project with L&I before you build.

How big can a deck be in Philadelphia without a permit?

In Philadelphia, height matters more than size: the zoning exemption only covers decks 12 inches or less above the ground and not over a basement or other story. A-DIY kits sit 15–17 inches off the ground, so plan on a zoning permit. If your home is on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, the Historical Commission reviews the work before L&I issues permits.

Can I put a hot tub on an A-DIY deck?

Many customers use their A-DIY decks for hot tubs and saunas. Applicable configurations are engineered to hold up to 15,000 lbs when properly assembled and supported, but tub weight, placement and wiring vary, so talk to a deck specialist before you order and check local electrical and permit rules.

How deep do deck footings need to be in Philadelphia, and can I build a floating deck?

L&I’s EZ Deck standard calls for footings 30 inches below grade on undisturbed soil for attached decks. A floating (freestanding) deck is not attached to the house and rests on footings at the surface. A-DIY kits are freestanding and include Tuff Block footings, which sit on firm, level, compacted ground. Your L&I plan reviewer can confirm what applies to your yard.

How does Philadelphia weather affect a deck?

Philadelphia International Airport averages about 23 inches of snow a year, often in a few big storms, and the city also sees freeze-thaw cycles, humid summers and heavy thunderstorms. Choose a spot that drains away from the house, keep airflow under the deck, seal pressure-treated wood every one to two years or choose composite, and clear snow with a plastic shovel.

When is the best time to build a deck in Philadelphia?

Late spring and early fall are ideal, with dry ground, mild temperatures and less humidity than midsummer. Many homeowners order in winter, start zoning paperwork early and schedule delivery for spring. A $250 non-refundable A-DIY Reserve deposit holds today’s price for a later delivery date.

What deck kit sizes does A-DIY offer?

Pressure-treated wood kits come in 15 sizes: Standard 12x12, 12x18, 12x20, 12x24, 12x28, 16x16, 16x20, 16x24 and 16x28, plus Compact 6x12, 6x16, 6x20, 8x12, 8x16 and 8x20. Composite kits come in 9 sizes from 12x12 to 16x28 in Amazon Gray or Forest Wood. Custom sizes are available on request.

Does A-DIY deliver deck kits to Philadelphia neighborhoods and nearby suburbs?

Yes. A-DIY ships by LTL freight to every Philadelphia neighborhood, including South Philly, Fishtown, Manayunk, Roxborough, Mount Airy, Chestnut Hill and Northeast Philadelphia, and to nearby suburbs such as Cheltenham, Abington, Upper Darby and Bensalem. Delivery is curbside and typically arrives within 10–14 business days, so plan how the components will reach your backyard.

How can I pay for a deck kit in Philadelphia?

Pay in full, reserve today’s price with a $250 non-refundable A-DIY Reserve deposit, split the cost into 0% payments over up to 8 months, or build now and pay later with Affirm, Klarna or Shop Pay, subject to approval.

Ready to Build Your Own Deck in Philadelphia?

Choose from 15 pressure-treated and 9 composite deck kit sizes, talk to a deck specialist about your yard and get a professionally engineered deck kit delivered anywhere in Philadelphia.

Engineered system

Coordinated, labeled components with engineering diagrams.

Delivered to Philadelphia

Typically within 10–14 business days.

Real deck specialists

Phone and live chat support from planning to the final board.

Explore Deck Kits

Prefer to talk? Call our deck specialists at 1 (786) 358-2872