Frequently Asked Questions

In our climate, frost may reach down into the earth a depth of 42 inches. If the concrete is down that far, the frost stands less of a chance of heaving the footing.

Although the lumber is treated with a preservative, there still exists the possibility that the lumber may deteriorate or rot at a later date. By using post anchors, repair and/or replacement of the post is made much easier resulting in decks that are better maintained.

There is less chance of high heels getting caught in the gap or shoes rolling sideways causing a twisted ankle.

When the finished deck surface is higher than 30 inches above the adjacent ground.

It may, but it is discouraged. If it must, then treated lumber rated for ground contact is mandatory. The deck must still be structurally supported by girders, posts, and piers and not by the ground it contacts.

Generally, the material in the kit will meet the code, but the sizes of the lumber may not. Rolling Meadows Code of Ordinances requires a 40-pound live load for the deck. The lumberyard may be figuring on a 30-pound live load, thus the lumber sizes may not be large enough to meet the Rolling Meadows Code.

It's possible, but only when the plans are sealed by a registered architect or structural engineer.

Yes, this is for weed prevention. This is not a vapor barrier.

The minimum tread is 10 inches with a nosing not less than 3/4 inch but not more than 1 1/4 inches. The maximum riser is 7 3/4 inches. The greatest riser height shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch.

Porches, decks, balconies, or raised floor surfaces located more than30 inches above the floor or grade require a guardrail not less than 36 inches in height. Open sides of stairs 30 inches above the floor or grade require a guardrail not less than 34 inches in height measured vertically form the nosing of the treads.

Stairs with 4 or more risers are required to have a handrail between 30 and 38 inches high measured vertically from the nosing of the tread on 1 side of the stair. Handrails have to be continuous the full length of the stair. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 1 1/2 inch between the wall and the handrail. Handrail gripping size shall have a cross section with a diameter of 1 1/4 to 2 inches.