Hey craftsmen - I'm going to get a new deck built. I'm getting quotes.
crude drawing below
Here in the red river valley we have evil expansive clays that shrink/expand with moisture.
The deck not too far off the ground - whatever the max height without rails is allowed (can't recall). The door at right is lower than the slider at left - so we'll have a threshold for the slider door.
I believe the max height without railing is 18"
I am wanting top-of-the-line composite decking (unless I shouldn't be?) _
I want to build this thing ONCE.
What brand/model of composite should I get?
I like Trex
Do I need footings down to frost or can it be freestanding? (yes - it's attached to the house on those two sides)
You should have piers at least 4' below grade if attached to the house
What type/density of footings? Bare posts to below frost? Posts sitting on concrete footings that are below frost?
Install posts on top of concrete pier using galvanized post plates
Amy other advise is appreciated. I live in the big $hitty and don't want to get scoundreled.