LGC: Services in
Portland, OR.

Deck Building in Portland, OR — What Homeowners Should Know

Portland is one of the most unique cities in the Pacific Northwest, and building a deck here comes with its own set of considerations. The city receives an average of 36 inches of rain per year, concentrated from October through May, which means every outdoor structure needs to be designed with moisture management in mind. Portland homeowners who skip proper drainage, board spacing, or moisture-resistant materials often find themselves dealing with rot, mold, and structural deterioration within just a few years.

The architectural character of Portland adds another layer of complexity. Neighborhoods like Sellwood, Hawthorne, and Division are filled with Craftsman bungalows and Victorian homes built in the early 20th century. Connecting a modern deck to an older home requires careful structural integration — the existing framing may need reinforcement before a deck can be safely attached. At LGC Remodeling, we evaluate every home before construction begins to make sure the connection is sound, compliant, and built to last.

Why Portland Homeowners Choose LGC Remodeling

Portland’s deck market is competitive. Many contractors offer quick builds at low prices, but homeowners in Portland’s established neighborhoods consistently report problems: boards that warp after one winter, railings that loosen, decks that weren’t built to city code. LGC Remodeling works differently.

Every project in Portland is supervised directly by Larry, the company’s founder, with over 15 years of hands-on building experience in the Portland metro area. We don’t subcontract the work and walk away — we are on-site from the first day of framing to the final inspection. Our clients in Portland’s east-side neighborhoods and inner SE appreciate the direct communication, honest timelines, and workmanship that holds up through multiple wet seasons.

We also understand Portland’s specific permitting process. The Bureau of Development Services (BDS) handles deck permits in Portland, and requirements vary based on deck height, square footage, and proximity to property lines. We handle the entire application process, coordinate inspections, and ensure the final structure meets Portland’s Residential Code (based on the Oregon Residential Specialty Code).

Best Deck Materials for Portland’s Wet Climate

Choosing the right material is the single most important decision Portland homeowners make when planning a deck. Here’s how the most popular options perform in Portland’s climate:

• Trex Composite Decking — The best long-term choice for Portland. Engineered to resist moisture, mold, and UV fading, Trex boards won’t warp, crack, or splinter even after years of rain and dry summers. No annual sealing required. LGC Remodeling installs Trex’s full product line including Transcend, Select, and Enhance.
• Western Red Cedar — A beautiful natural option that performs well in Portland when properly maintained. Cedar is naturally rot-resistant and stays cooler underfoot than composite. Requires sealing every 1–2 years to maintain protection. Popular in historic neighborhoods where natural wood fits the aesthetic.
• Pressure-Treated Lumber — The most affordable option. Works well as framing material for all deck types. Surface boards in PT lumber require regular maintenance and are more prone to checking (surface cracking) in Portland’s wet-dry cycle.

For most Portland homeowners, we recommend composite decking for the surface with pressure-treated framing — the combination that delivers the best balance of longevity and value.

Building Permits for Decks in Portland, OR

Most deck projects in Portland require a building permit from the Bureau of Development Services. A permit is typically required when the deck is attached to the house, elevated more than 30 inches above grade, or larger than 200 square feet. Permit fees in Portland vary based on project valuation, typically ranging from $400 to $1,200 for residential decks.

LGC Remodeling manages the entire permitting process — from plan preparation and application submission through all required inspections (footing, framing, and final). We don’t ask homeowners to manage this process themselves.

Deck Costs in Portland, OR

Deck costs in Portland range from $12,000 to $45,000+ depending on size, material, and complexity. A basic pressure-treated deck for an average Portland backyard (200–300 sq ft) typically runs $12,000–$18,000 installed. A Trex composite deck of similar size ranges from $18,000–$28,000. Multi-level decks, covered decks, and decks with custom railings or built-in features cost more. Contact LGC Remodeling for a free on-site estimate — we provide detailed, written proposals with no hidden fees.

Ready to Build Your Deck in Portland?

LGC Remodeling serves homeowners throughout Portland including SE Portland, NE Portland, NW Portland, North Portland, and SW Portland. We build decks that match your home’s style, handle Portland’s rainy climate, and are built to the city’s code requirements. Call us today or fill out our contact form to schedule your free estimate.

Our Deck Services in Portland, OR

LGC Remodeling offers a full range of outdoor construction services in Portland, OR. Whatever your project — a new composite deck, a cedar structure, repair of an aging deck, or a complete outdoor living upgrade — we have the experience and craftsmanship to deliver.

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All services include free on-site estimates, permit management, and LGC’s workmanship warranty. Contact us to schedule a consultation in Portland, OR.