Deck Builder Across the Greater Seattle Area
New decks, rebuilds, railings, stairs and refinishing, framed to the local building code for load, guards and stairs.
- We look under the boards at the framing, ledger and footings before we price.
- We draw the deck and file the permit when its height or site calls for one.
- You sign off on an itemized, written price before the old boards come up.
By appointment. Limited start dates.
- Over 200 projects
- 4.9 on Google
- 20+ years of experience
- WA license VOLCABI792C6
A deck you stopped using, or one you never had
Most deck calls we take start with one of these.
Boards that feel soft underfoot
Gray, cupped boards and a railing that moves when you lean on it. Boards that stay wet start to split and loosen, and the surface is usually the first thing to go.
Rot you cannot see from above
On the Mercer Island deck in our gallery, the framing under the boards had rotted. That is why we check the posts, beams and ledger before anyone talks about stain colors.
A deck built to pass inspection
In Seattle, a deck more than 18 inches above the ground needs a permit. An unpermitted deck can surface when the house is sold, so we build and inspect each one as if a buyer will ask.
What we build: decks, railings, stairs and refinishing
One crew handles the deck from the footings to the last coat of stain, including the railing and the stairs.
New decks
Ground level platforms, raised decks off a kitchen door and second story decks. Seattle designs decks for a live load of 60 pounds per square foot, higher than the model code, and we size joists, beams and footings to it.
Rebuilds and structural repair
Rotted joists, posts and ledgers replaced, and a deck that pulls away from the house anchored back to it. The code requires a deck to be anchored to the house or to stand on its own, never held by toenails or nails that can work loose.
Railings
Any open side more than 30 inches above the ground needs a guard at least 36 inches tall, with openings a 4 inch ball cannot pass. We build them in wood, composite, aluminum or cable. Glass has its own rules and may need an engineer.
Stairs and landings
Seattle deck stairs need risers no taller than 7 3/4 inches, treads at least 10 inches deep and a 36 inch clear width. Four or more risers need a handrail.
Refinishing
When the framing is sound, a deck can be saved: loose boards reset or replaced, the surface cleaned and sanded, then stained or painted.
Plans and permits
We draw the plan, file the permit and book the inspections. Most Seattle decks need only a subject to field inspection permit; a deck over 8 feet high, over 750 square feet or with a solid surface needs a full construction permit.
For custom outdoor kitchens and covered rooms, see Outdoor Living and Pool Houses.
Decks we have built and restored
Six real jobs from our portfolio, from full builds to refinishing. Each is captioned with its city and opens its project page.
What homeowners say about working with us
We were nervous about hiring a contractor because we were first-time homeowners, but Volcano Builders made it easy to understand. They made everything clear and helped us stick to our budget. I'm very happy with how everything turned out.
Bar and the team at Volcano Builders did a great job! Professional service, great communication throughout the whole process, and everything was done with care and attention to detail. Highly recommend!
Had a great experience working with Volcano Builders on remodeling bathroom and flooring in my condo! Bar and his team were very professional from estimates to timely completion of the job! Highly recommend!
Just completed my inital meeting with Volcano Builders about my bathroom remodels and couldn't be happier with the interaction. On time, professional and extremely knowledge. Highly recommend you invite them out to see your next home improvement project!
Gad an amazing experience with Volcano Builders on my kitchen project. Bar my project manager was friendly. He make sure to keep me updated during the whole project. Also is team is very nice.
Volcano Builders did a great job on our master bathroom. The tile work and finishing touches were great. Even though they weren't the cheapest quote we got, you can tell they care about quality.
Read more of our Google reviews, word for word, with video reviews from finished homes.
How your deck project runs
Three steps, one team, and a written price before anyone picks up a tool.
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Site visit
We measure the deck or the space for one, check the height above grade, the slope, the framing and how the ledger meets the house, and talk through how you want to use it.
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Plan, price and permit
We draw the deck, price it in writing line by line and file the permit when the height, size or site needs one.
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Build and final inspection
One project manager runs the footings, framing, decking, railings and stairs, books each inspection, then walks the finished deck with you.
What sets the price of a deck in the Greater Seattle area
Four things drive most of a deck quote. Your written estimate prices each on its own line.
Height and size
A low platform near the ground is the simplest build. Height adds posts, bracing, guards and stairs, and in Seattle a deck 36 inches or more above the ground counts toward lot coverage (SDCI, House Additions & Remodels), which can limit how big it can be.
Decking material
Pressure treated lumber, cedar and composite boards differ in price, upkeep and look. We are Trex certified. Composite boards, treads and rails that contain wood fiber must meet their own code section, so we use listed products.
Railings and stairs
Every foot of guard and every step adds cost. Wood is simplest; aluminum balusters, cable and composite systems cost more, and a glass railing may need an engineer.
What is underneath
Reusing sound framing keeps a refresh small. Rotted joists, a failing ledger, new footings or a steep lot turn a resurface into a rebuild, and a site in or near an environmentally critical area adds a city site visit.
If you are unsure whether to refinish or rebuild, ask us to open up a few boards at the first visit. What the framing looks like decides it.
Seattle and Bellevue Remodeling Cost Guide
Financing is available: Home Renovation Financing Across the Greater Seattle Area.
Transparent pricing
Deck Prices in the Greater Seattle Area
Decks we build across the Greater Seattle Area start at $15,000+ to resurface an existing deck and $25,000+ for a new single level deck. Elevated and multi level decks start at $45,000+.
Price depends on three things: whether the frame stays, the height and size of the deck, and the decking and railing you choose. Pick a type to see a typical layout, what each finish level includes, and real decks we completed.
Deck Resurface and Refinish
Sound frame kept, new surface
Typical size: Any size · frame checked and kept
Common scope: New boards and rails · Refinish and stain · Stair rebuild
Typical timeline: 1 to 2 weeks on site, after permits
Basic
Functional + affordable
Starting at
$15,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Frame inspection and repairs up to 10%
- Boards cleaned, sanded and stained or replaced
- Loose or failed rail parts replaced
- Stair treads replaced
- Hardware tightened or replaced
- Debris hauled away
Best for: A sound deck that looks tired
Mid-Range
Style + durability
Starting at
$25,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Everything in Basic
- New cedar or entry composite boards
- Hidden fasteners
- Joist protection tape
- New composite or aluminum railing
- Matching stair treads and fascia
Luxury
Design + premium finish
Starting at
$40,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Premium composite or PVC boards
- Glass, cable or aluminum railing
- Built in stair and post lighting
- Picture frame border
- Skirting on every face
- Design selections with our team
Materials: Basic is pressure treated wood. Mid-Range is cedar or entry composite. Luxury is premium composite or PVC with glass, cable or aluminum railing. We are Trex certified.
Not included in starting prices: Permit fees · Rot found in the house rim or ledger · Siding repair at the ledger · Engineering or geotech for steep slopes · Hot tub support · Electrical beyond deck lighting · Material upgrades beyond the allowance. We price these in writing if your project needs them.
Real decks we completed
Red-Brown Deck Stain Refinish in Bellevue, WAAbout $15,000 · Completed 2021
Painted Deck and Porch Stair RepairAbout $15,000
Past project prices from the year each deck was completed. Material and labor costs have risen since, which is why the starting prices above are higher.
New Single Level Decks
Built new, one level near the ground
Typical size: 200 to 400 sq ft · one level, steps to the yard
Common scope: Off the kitchen or living room · Wraparound · Platform deck
Typical timeline: 2 to 4 weeks on site, after permits
Basic
Functional + affordable
Starting at
$25,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Old deck removed and hauled away
- Concrete footings and pressure treated framing
- Pressure treated decking
- Wood railing where required
- One stair run to the yard
- Permit drawings, filing and inspections
Best for: A new deck at the best price
Mid-Range
Style + durability
Starting at
$40,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Everything in Basic
- Cedar or entry composite boards
- Hidden fasteners and picture frame border
- Joist protection tape
- Composite or aluminum railing
- Matching stair treads and fascia
Luxury
Design + premium finish
Starting at
$60,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Premium composite or PVC boards
- Glass, cable or aluminum railing
- Built in stair and post lighting
- Wide stairs or built in benches
- Skirting and fascia on every face
- Full design drawings and selections
Materials: Basic is pressure treated wood. Mid-Range is cedar or entry composite. Luxury is premium composite or PVC with glass, cable or aluminum railing. We are Trex certified.
Not included in starting prices: Permit fees · Rot found in the house rim or ledger · Siding repair at the ledger · Engineering or geotech for steep slopes · Hot tub support · Electrical beyond deck lighting · Material upgrades beyond the allowance. We price these in writing if your project needs them.
Real decks we completed
Rotted Deck Rebuild in Mercer Island, WAAbout $35,000 · Completed 2022
Low Platform Deck Replacement in Mukilteo, WAAbout $10,000
Past project prices from the year each deck was completed. Material and labor costs have risen since, which is why the starting prices above are higher.
Elevated and Multi Level Decks
Second story, multiple levels or sloped lots
Typical size: 400 sq ft and up · raised, multi level or on a slope
Common scope: Second story deck · Upper and lower levels · Hillside deck
Typical timeline: 4 to 8 weeks on site, after permits
Basic
Functional + affordable
Starting at
$45,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Engineered posts, beams and footings
- Pressure treated framing and decking
- Code railing on every open edge
- Stairs between levels and to the yard
- Ledger flashing at the house
- Permit drawings, filing and inspections
Best for: Raised decks and sloped yards
Mid-Range
Style + durability
Starting at
$70,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Everything in Basic
- Cedar or entry composite boards
- Hidden fasteners and picture frame border
- Composite or aluminum railing
- Landings and wider stairs
- Lighting on stairs
Luxury
Design + premium finish
Starting at
$100,000+
Includes a standard material allowance. Upgrades are priced from your selections.
- Premium composite or PVC boards
- Glass or cable railing
- Built in lighting throughout
- Under deck drainage or ceiling
- Skirting and fascia on every face
- Full design drawings and selections
Materials: Basic is pressure treated wood. Mid-Range is cedar or entry composite. Luxury is premium composite or PVC with glass, cable or aluminum railing. We are Trex certified.
Not included in starting prices: Permit fees · Rot found in the house rim or ledger · Siding repair at the ledger · Engineering or geotech for steep slopes · Hot tub support · Electrical beyond deck lighting · Material upgrades beyond the allowance. We price these in writing if your project needs them.
Real decks we completed
New Deck Stairs and Entry Landings in Seattle, WAAbout $30,000 · Completed 2023
Composite Deck with Glass RailingAbout $25,000
Raised Backyard Deck with White RailingAbout $20,000 · Completed 2024
Past project prices from the year each deck was completed. Material and labor costs have risen since, which is why the starting prices above are higher.
Covered deck add-on: a solid roof cover over your deck starts at $20,000+ and adds 1 to 3 weeks on site.
What's Included by Tier
| Feature | Basic | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decking | Pressure treated | Cedar or composite | Premium composite or PVC |
| Railing | Wood | Composite or aluminum | Glass, cable or aluminum |
| Fasteners | Face screwed | Hidden | Hidden |
| Lighting | Not included | Stairs | Throughout |
| Skirting and fascia | Not included | Fascia | Every face |
| Permit drawings and filing | Included | Included | Included |
| Design | Layout | Layout options | Full drawings |
"Starting at" prices reflect typical completed projects in the Greater Seattle Area and are not a quote. Final pricing depends on size, layout changes, material selections, permits and what we find behind the walls. Every project is priced in writing after a site visit.
Deck Cost Questions
How much does a deck cost in the Greater Seattle Area?
Resurfacing an existing deck starts at $15,000+. A new single level deck starts at $25,000+. An elevated or multi level deck starts at $45,000+. A solid roof cover adds $20,000+.
What does a deck cost per square foot?
Square footage is a weak guide. Height, stairs and railing move the price more than size. Use the starting prices by type instead.
Is composite more expensive than wood?
Yes. In Seattle a composite deck costs about 40% more than the same deck in wood. It needs far less upkeep.
How much does a Trex deck cost?
Trex and other composites start in our Mid-Range tier: $25,000+ to resurface, $40,000+ for a new single level deck and $70,000+ for an elevated deck. We are Trex certified.
Should I repair, refinish or rebuild?
If the frame is sound, resurfacing starts at $15,000+. If posts, joists or ledger are rotted, a rebuild is the safe choice and starts at $25,000+.
How much does a covered deck cost?
A solid roof cover starts at $20,000+ on top of the deck price, and adds 1 to 3 weeks on site.
How much do glass or cable railings add?
Glass and cable railing are in our Luxury tier. They cost several times more per foot than wood railing.
Do I need a permit for a deck?
Usually yes for a raised deck. Seattle permits go through SDCI and take 4 to 8 weeks. Eastside cities usually take 2 to 4 weeks. We file the permit.
How long does a deck take?
On site: resurfacing takes 1 to 2 weeks, a new single level deck 2 to 4 weeks and an elevated or multi level deck 4 to 8 weeks.
Does a deck add value to my home?
In Seattle, a new wood deck recovers about 83% of its cost at sale and a composite deck about 80% (Cost vs Value 2025).
What warranty do you give?
Every deck carries a 2-year workmanship warranty, extendable to 5 years. Decking and railing carry their manufacturer's warranty.
Homeowners on camera
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Stephanie
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Sarah & Robert
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Paul & Burley
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Homeowner
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Linda, Part 2
Deck building across Greater Seattle
Our main office is in Bellevue, and we build and repair decks across King and Snohomish counties, from Seattle, Mercer Island and the Eastside north to Snohomish.
Permits come from the city the house is in. In Seattle, the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections issues deck permits, and a deck in or near an environmentally critical area, such as a landslide prone slope, needs a site visit from the city before any permit application. In Bellevue, permits come from Development Services. We file with whichever office covers your address.
Planning more than a deck? See our remodeling pages for Seattle and Bellevue, or all 132+ cities we serve.
Our workmanship warranty
- 2 years standard. Our installation and labor are covered for 2 years from substantial completion.
- Up to 5 years. You can extend the workmanship coverage up to 5 years for an added charge, set in your contract.
- Not transferable. Coverage stays with the homeowner who signed the contract and does not pass to a new owner.
- Materials. Materials, finish materials included, carry the manufacturer's or supplier's warranty, and we help you file a claim.
Remodeling Warranty for the Greater Seattle Area
Related: Deck Remodeling Portfolio Across the Greater Seattle Area.
Deck questions
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Seattle?
Yes, if the deck is more than 18 inches above the ground, is a roof deck, or sits in an environmentally critical area such as a steep slope. Most decks need only a subject to field inspection permit. A full construction permit is needed when the deck is more than 8 feet above the ground, has beams 14 feet or longer, has a solid surface or is over 750 square feet. Repairing rotted members in kind does not need one. The rules are on the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections deck page, and we file for you.
How tall does a deck railing need to be?
In Seattle, any deck surface more than 30 inches above the ground or a lower roof needs a guard at least 36 inches tall (Seattle Residential Code R312.1.1 and R312.1.2), and no opening in it may let a 4 inch ball through. Stairs with four or more risers need a handrail 34 to 38 inches above the tread nosing. Glass railings follow separate rules and may need a structural engineer.
Should I repair, refinish or rebuild my deck?
It depends on the framing, not the boards. When the joists, posts and ledger are sound, refinishing or replacing the decking is enough: our deck repair and refinishing job in Seattle is one. When the framing has rotted, as on our Mercer Island deck remodel, a rebuild is the safe choice. We open up the deck at the site visit and show you what we find.
Composite or wood decking?
Both work here. Pressure treated lumber and cedar cost less up front but need regular cleaning and stain; composite needs less upkeep. Composite boards and rails that contain wood fiber must meet their own section of the Seattle Residential Code, and any wood touching concrete near the ground must be treated or naturally decay resistant.
How long does a deck project take?
It depends mostly on the permit your deck needs. In Seattle a deck no more than 18 inches above the ground needs no permit, most taller decks need only a subject to field inspection permit, and a deck more than 8 feet up, over 750 square feet, a roof deck or one in an environmentally critical area needs an addition or alteration permit with review. A permit adds approval time. Your written estimate comes with a schedule; How long does a remodel take in Seattle? explains the phases.
How do I get a price for my deck?
Book a consultation. We visit, measure, look at the framing and the site, then send a written, itemized price before any work starts. For background on costs, read the Seattle and Bellevue Remodeling Cost Guide, or look through the deck remodeling portfolio.
Book your deck consultation
Four quick steps. Tell us about your project and we’ll reach out to discuss it and see if we’re the right fit.