How Long Does It Take to Build a Deck on Long Island?

A well-built deck can transform your backyard into the perfect place for summer barbecues, morning coffee, or just relaxing in the fresh air. But before you can start enjoying your personal oasis, you need to ask “How long does it take to build a deck on Long Island?”

Deck time isn’t the same for every project. A simple 200 square foot deck or 12x12 deck may go up quicker than a complex 500 square foot deck with multiple levels, built-in seating, and custom lighting. Add in the planning, permits, and material selection, and the timeline can shift.

Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc. has been helping homeowners with backyard deck installation and new deck construction for years. We know the factors that influence timelines and how to avoid common delays. In this guide, we’ll break down what goes into building a deck, from what affects scheduling to things to consider before you start.

How Long Does It Normally Take to Build a Deck on Long Island?

On average, a deck takes between 2 months and 4 months+ to permit and build. Here are a few different categories of deck build that we’ve seen on Long Island, and how each can affect the timeline.

Small and Simple Decks

A basic 200 square foot deck can be the fastest type of build. These are often simple platform decks with straightforward layouts and minimal structural changes. With permits in place and materials ready, these projects can be completed relatively quickly, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking for a fast backyard upgrade. How long does it take to build a 12 x 12 deck? If it is a simple shape with no features, it is probably around xxx.

Medium-Sized Decks with Features

When you move up to larger spaces, such as a 500 square foot deck, or add features like custom railings, stairs, or built-in seating, the time to build a deck increases. More square footage means more framing and decking material to install, and extra features require additional planning and labor. These types of projects still move efficiently with the right team, but take more time than simple designs.

Custom and Multi-Level Decks

If you’re planning a highly customized backyard deck installation, expect an extended timeline. More complex decks include multi-level decks, specialty materials, custom lighting, or integrated outdoor kitchens. These builds require detailed planning, additional permitting considerations, and specialty craftsmanship to bring your vision to life.

Deck building isn’t only about nailing down boards. The timeline includes planning, securing permits, material selection, and inspections to ensure the structure is safe and up to code. Working with an experienced deck contractor on Long Island, like Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc., ensures these steps are handled smoothly. Our new deck construction process is designed to minimize surprises and keep your project on schedule.

Things to Consider When Building a Deck

There’s more to building a deck than choosing boards and getting started. Here are the key factors that affect how long it takes and how smoothly the project goes.

Permits and Local Codes

Most areas on Long Island require a permit before construction starts. These permits are in place to ensure safety and compliance with local building codes. Skipping this step can add delays later, so it’s smart to handle it upfront.

Design and Materials

Are you going with natural wood, composite, or a hybrid? Are you adding built-in seating, lighting, or multiple levels? Your design choices affect how long the deck takes to build due to material lead times.

Site Prep and Access

Is your backyard easily accessible? Is the ground level, or will it require grading? These site factors influence deck time more than people think.

Weather and Seasonal Timing

Long Island weather plays a role, too. Spring and summer are popular times for backyard deck installation, which can extend scheduling timelines.

Thinking ahead and addressing these things to consider when building a deck will help you save time and avoid stress later on. Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc. will make sure you’re informed every step of the way and you know how each decision will affect the timeline.

What Are the Steps in Building a Deck on Long Island?

A quality backyard deck installation follows a step-by-step process to ensure safety, longevity, and a clean finish. Here’s how professionals like Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc. approach new deck construction.

1. Planning and Design

Every deck project begins with understanding how you want to use the space. Will it be a cozy 200 square foot deck for morning coffee, or a sprawling 500 square foot deck for entertaining? This stage includes selecting materials, deciding on features like railings or built-in seating, and finalizing your budget and timeline.

2. Permitting and Approvals

Most towns on Long Island require a building permit for decks. This ensures your deck meets safety codes and property setback requirements. An experienced deck contractor on Long Island handles this step for you, avoiding delays and compliance issues.

3. Site Prep and Layout

The build starts with clearing the area, grading the ground if needed, and laying out the footprint. Proper site prep sets the foundation for a level, sturdy deck.

4. Footings and Framing

Footings are poured or posts set below frost depth to keep the deck stable. Then, the frame is constructed. This is the skeleton of your deck and where accuracy matters most for long-term durability.

5. Decking, Railings, and Features

Once the frame is complete, decking boards are installed. Railings, stairs, built-in benches, and custom elements like lighting or pergolas are added during this phase, with more complex designs taking additional time.

6. Final Inspection and Finishing Touches

Many Long Island towns require a final inspection to confirm the deck meets code. After passing, any final trim, staining, or sealing is done, so you can start enjoying your new outdoor space.

What will your deck look like after these steps are followed? Take a look at our portfolio to get some ideas and inspiration.

FAQs About Backyard Deck Installation

Here are some of the Frequently Asked Questions that we get about deck building on Long Island.

1. How Long Does It Take to Buy a Deck?

Buying a deck isn’t like picking up something off the shelf. It starts with design and material selection. Depending on lead times for materials, it may take a few weeks before construction can even begin.

2. Do I Need a Permit to Build a Deck In Long Island, NY?

In most cases, yes. Permits ensure your deck meets safety and zoning codes, which is critical for long-term durability and resale value. A professional builder will handle these details for you.

3. What Is the 3-4-5 Rule for Deck Building?

This is a simple but crucial method to ensure corners are square, leading to a safer and cleaner-looking finished deck. Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc. will handle all of the math for you, so you can enjoy dreaming about your deck, not worrying that it will be square.

4. How Much Does a Deck Cost on Long Island?

There are a lot of factors that go into how much a deck costs on Long Island. Read our blog for more information.

Why Choose Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc. to Build Your Deck on Long Island?

When it comes to backyard deck installation and new deck construction, experience matters. Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc. brings over 30 years of industry expertise and a proven process as a deck builder on Long Island designed to make your project smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

1. Local Knowledge

We know Long Island with its codes, its permitting process, and its unique property layouts. That means we can anticipate potential challenges and handle them before they slow down your deck time.

2. Detailed Planning from Day One

We don’t just show up and start building. Every project starts with a comprehensive consultation and design mockup. You’ll see your deck before construction even begins, so there are no surprises.

3. Transparent Process

Our client portal lets you track every step, from permitting to scheduling to daily progress updates. No guesswork, no hidden steps, just full visibility throughout your deck build.

4. High-Quality Craftsmanship

We focus on details that deliver both beauty and durability.

5. A Trusted Local Reputation

Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc. is built on honesty and quality. We don’t negotiate on craftsmanship or cut corners; the price we quote is the price of your finished deck.

Let’s Talk About Your Deck on Long Island

Building a deck is an investment in your home and your lifestyle. Planning and professional guidance are key to keeping timelines and budgets on track. At Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc., we handle every step so your backyard deck installation is smooth, efficient, and built to last.

Are you interested in learning about our other remodels? Get started with our kitchen Cost Guide.

Contact Us

Contact Long Island Creative Contracting, Inc. today to schedule your consultation and see how quickly your backyard can transform.