New deck construction in Billings
A deck sized for how you use the yard, built on footings that hold still through a Montana winter.
Most of what makes a deck last is hidden. The footings, posts, beams, joists and the ledger that ties the deck to your house carry every load. Boards and railings are what you notice, and they're the parts easiest to swap out later. When you compare quotes, compare what's underneath.
What does a well-built Billings deck include?
- Footings to 42 inches. That's the frost depth in the City of Billings design criteria. A footing that stops short can lift as the ground freezes, and the deck starts to lean or pull away from the house.
- A bolted, flashed ledger. On an attached deck, the ledger is fastened to the house framing with bolts or structural screws, with flashing that sends water away instead of behind it. Nailed ledgers are a common failure point on older decks.
- Framing sized for the span. Treated joists and beams sized for the layout and load, with hangers and fasteners rated for treated lumber.
- Boards, guards and stairs. Decking, railings and stairs built to the code your city or county uses.
- A permit and inspections. Billings requires a building permit for decks, and that brings inspections at set stages of the job.
Which decking woods are common?
| Decking | Best for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Treated pine | Lower budgets; framing on nearly every deck | Needs cleaning and stain; checks quickly in dry sun |
| Cedar | A warmer look, lighter boards | Softer and dents easier; still needs a finish |
| Composite / PVC | Low maintenance | Costs more up front; see composite decks |
Walkout and second-story decks
Split-levels and walkout basements are common around Billings, so a deck off the kitchen can end up well above grade. Height adds work: taller posts with bracing, larger footings, guards on every open side, and a long stair that needs a landing at the bottom. Some owners leave room for a patio under the deck; if so, ask about drainage so water doesn't drip onto the space below.
What should you decide before calling?
- How many people will use it, and will it hold a grill, a table or a hot tub?
- Which direction does it face? West-facing decks take the hardest afternoon sun.
- Might you want a roof or pergola later? Footings can be sized for it now.
- Where should the stairs land, and do you need a gate for kids or dogs?
What changes the price?
- Square footage, height and shape
- Decking and railing material
- Number of footings, levels and stair runs
- Tear-off of an old deck, permit costs and how easy the site is to reach
Pricing comes from the builder after they've walked the site, measured, and talked through materials and layout with you. We don't quote prices, and any figure you hear over the phone before a visit is only a ballpark.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
How deep do deck footings go in Billings?
The City of Billings design criteria list a 42-inch frost depth. Outside city limits, ask your builder what depth they use and why.
Can my new deck hold a hot tub?
Only if it's designed for one. A filled tub is very heavy and usually needs extra footings and framing, so mention it at the first visit.
Related services
More background: Billings deck guide.
Hail-beaten boards, a shaky railing, or a deck you keep meaning to build?
Call now and an independent deck builder who works in Billings will help you figure out the next step.