I'm thinking about switching from a traditional deck to a raised patio with a retaining wall. The plan involves a wall that's under 2 feet high, running along the house, topped with a metal grate. My goal is to make winter maintenance easier since I'd like to avoid shoveling snow. Plus, my deck gets super wet and seems vulnerable to rot. Will this kind of setup pass code, or are there regulations against something like this?
3 Answers
Without seeing photos, it’s hard to fully assess your situation. I'm curious, what type of foundation does your house have? If your deck is constantly wet, adding more dirt next to your house might not be the best idea as it could cause moisture issues. Just something to keep in mind!
I had a deck, too, but the maintenance got to be too much. I recently switched to a raised concrete patio, and I’m loving it! I spent around $25,000 last year to remove my old deck and install the new patio. It feels more durable, plus I only need to do annual cleaning with a pressure washer. Definitely a good option if you're tired of constant upkeep!
Make sure to check your local building codes! They can vary a lot. Generally, if your retaining wall is under 4 feet high (3 feet in some areas), it might not need a permit or engineering checks. I’ve noticed that concrete patios usually require permits, but paver patios often don’t. Going for hardscaping can be more durable than a deck, though it might cost a bit more.