FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Straight answers about porches, decks, and what to expect when working with us.

New Deck Builds

New Deck Builds

What goes into building a new custom deck?

Every Dupont deck starts with a design and build consultation. We walk your space together, talk through how you want to use the deck, and give you clear direction on design, materials, and cost. From there, we handle the design, the permit process, and the build itself, engineered from the frame up to last.

What decking materials do you work with?

We build with both composite and traditional wood decking, and we’ll walk you through the tradeoffs of each: appearance, maintenance, and long-term cost so you can pick what fits your home and budget. Whichever surface you choose, the structural frame underneath is built the same way: to outlast the decking on top of it.

How long does a new deck build take?

It depends on the size and complexity of the project and the time of year. During your consultation we’ll give you a realistic timeline for your specific build, and we keep you informed at every stage from design through final walkthrough.

Do I need a permit to build a deck?

In most Twin Cities Metro cities, yes, and you won’t have to deal with any of it. We handle the entire permitting process from start to finish: preparing and submitting the application, providing construction plans, coordinating directly with your city, and managing inspections through final approval and close out. Every city has different requirements, and we take care of all of it based on your location.

What warranty comes with a new Dupont deck?

Every deck we build is backed by our Lifetime Structural Warranty. Decking boards and railings are wear items that can be refreshed over time, but the structural frame: joists, beams, and support posts, is engineered to last, and if a workmanship defect ever shows up in that frame, we repair it at no cost to you.

How much does a new deck cost?

Most projects start around $12,000 and can exceed $50,000 or more depending on size, materials, and features. The best way to get accurate pricing for your project is an on-site consultation, we’ll walk your space and give you clear direction on design, materials, and cost.

Deck Facelifts & Remodels

Deck Facelifts & Remodels

What is a deck facelift?

A facelift keeps your deck’s structural frame in place and replaces what you see and touch: decking boards, railings, and finishes. If the frame underneath is sound, there’s no reason to tear the whole thing down. You get what looks and feels like a brand-new deck, typically at a lower cost than a full rebuild.

How do I know if I need a facelift or a full rebuild?

It comes down to the condition of the frame. We inspect the structure: joists, beams, posts, and connections, and give you an honest answer. If the frame is solid, a facelift makes sense. If it’s compromised, we’ll tell you that too, and walk you through what a rebuild involves.

Can my existing deck be remodeled no matter what condition it's in?

Nearly any deck can be improved, but what we recommend depends on what we find. Some decks just need new surfaces; others have structural issues that need to be addressed first. That’s why every remodel starts with an inspection, so the plan fits the deck you actually have.

Can I switch from wood to composite decking during a facelift?

In most cases, yes. If your existing frame is sound and properly spaced for composite, we can replace wood decking with composite boards and update the railings to match. It’s one of the most popular ways to modernize a deck without rebuilding it.

Is a facelift cheaper than building new?

Generally, yes. Keeping the existing frame means less demolition, less lumber, and less labor. The final number depends on the condition of the structure and the materials you choose, and we’ll give you a clear comparison during your consult if both paths are on the table.

Screened & Four-Season Porches

Screened & Four-Season Porches

Can my porch or deck be screened in?

Most can. Whether we’re screening an existing covered space or designing a screened porch as part of a larger project, we’ll assess your structure and walk you through the options during your consult. See examples in our project gallery.

Can a four-season porch really be used year-round?

Yes, that’s the point of building one. A properly designed four-season porch is insulated and conditioned so it stays comfortable through Minnesota winters and summers alike.

Working with Dupont Decks

Working with Dupont Decks

What areas do you serve?

We design and build custom decks across the Twin Cities Metro. Visit our service areas page for more information.

What does the process look like from start to finish?

It starts with a design and build consult, we walk your space, answer questions, and give you clear direction on design, materials, and cost. From there: design, approvals, and the build itself, with clear communication at every step.

How do I get an estimate?

The easiest way is the Get Estimate form on our site, or give us a call at (651) 374-9878. Tell us about your space and we’ll take it from there.

What makes a Dupont deck different?

The frame. Decking styles come and go, but we engineer the structure underneath high-quality lumber, premium fasteners, and construction built to carry the load for decades. It’s why we back every frame with a Lifetime Structural Warranty, and why our decks are built to be refreshed, not rebuilt.

Still have questions?

Every project is different. Tell us about your space and we’ll
walk you through what’s possible.