How Regal Takes Your Backyard From Steep to Sleek

Turning Your Hillside Into the Perfect Deck Destination

Are you staring at your sloped backyard and wondering if you’ll ever be able to enjoy an outdoor living space there? What if we told you that a steep slope doesn’t have to stop you from creating the beautiful deck of your dreams?

In this guide, you’ll learn how Regal Home Improvement builds stunning decks on sloped yards, from planning your deck build to adding the finishing touches.

By the end, you’ll understand that your hillside isn’t a limitation—it’s an opportunity to create something truly special.

Building a Deck on a Slope: The Complete Process

1. Determine deck location.
2. Plan deck size and design.
3. Choose decking materials.
4. Install deck footings.
5. Build the deck substructure.
6. Attach posts and deck beams.
7. Attach the floor beams.
8. Install the deck surface.
9. Add railings and safety features.

Contact us about your deck building project.

Step 1: Determine Deck Location

When you’re ready to build a deck on a slope, the first step is figuring out exactly where it should go.

Most decks connect directly to your house at a back door for easy access.

However, if your sloped backyard has challenges near the house, we can design disconnected platform decks as alternative options.

• We evaluate your existing structures and landscaping to potentially avoid steep slopes or unnecessary tree removal.
• We also discuss your privacy needs and what you want to use your deck for.
• Finally, we assess the views from your deck to maximize your outdoor experience.

When you work with Regal Home Improvement, we start with a free on-site consultation to understand your vision and assess your specific slope and yard conditions.

Step 2: Plan Deck Size and Design

Simple elevated decks work well on hillsides with a slight slope.

But if you’re dealing with a steep slope—steeper than 45 degrees—multi-level decks are our best choice. These stunning structures support a cohesive design and allow for segmented use, creating multiple outdoor rooms in your backyard.

For especially complex designs, our experienced team discusses all available options with you. We’ve been building decks in Richmond, VA, since 1949, so we’ve seen every type of slope imaginable.

Regal Home Improvement offers three main deck package options that can be customized for your sloped yard:

• Standard Deck: Starting at $7,500 for a 12’x12′ wood deck with wood railings, typically completed in 4-7 days
• Deluxe Deck: Starting at $12,000 for a 12’x12′ basic composite decking with vinyl railings, typically completed in 7-10 days
• Premium Deck: Starting at $16,000 for a 16’x16′ premium composite decking with metal or composite railings, typically completed in 8-14 days

For those looking for a fully enclosed outdoor space, we also offer screened-in porches starting at $26,000 for a 16’x16′ structure, typically completed in 3-6 weeks.

More about the deck-building timeline.

Permitting and Building Codes

Before we break ground on your project, there’s important paperwork to handle.

Sloped deck projects typically require a permit, and attached decks almost always require one.

We ensure full compliance with local building codes throughout the project. Every area has different requirements, and we take care of this so you don’t have to worry about it.

Step 3: Choose Decking Materials

Material Options

We offer three primary decking material options at Regal Home Improvement, each designed to provide durability and beauty for your outdoor space.

1. Wood decking classic option provides a traditional look and is ideal for those who prefer authentic wood aesthetics.
2. Basic composite decking is a low-maintenance option that combines wood fiber and recycled polymers to give you the look of wood without the constant upkeep, making it easier to maintain while still providing excellent durability.
3. Premium composite decking is a high-end material that offers superior durability, color retention, and minimal maintenance requirements, perfect for those who want a beautiful deck that lasts for years with minimal effort.

Composite vs. wood decks.

Material Considerations for Slopes

Each material option works well on sloped terrain.

We follow the manufacturer’s specifications for proper installation and spacing based on your chosen decking type. The composite options are particularly popular for sloped yards because they’re lightweight and easier to work with during installation on hillsides.

All of our decking materials are selected for durability and performance in the Richmond, VA, climate.

Step 4: Install Deck Footings

How Deep Should a Deck Footing Be on a Slope?

Deck footing depth depends more on the frost depth than the slope itself.

Post height and length may need to increase as the slope increases.

We always comply with local building codes and authorities for the required footer depth and size specific to your area.

Install Deck Footings

Our foundation process begins with proper footing installation because everything else depends on this.

Deck footings hold posts that support the entire structure.

We install footings according to frost line depth requirements if your area experiences winter freezes. Here in Richmond, VA, we definitely have to account for winter, so we dig deep enough to get below the frost line.

Our Footing Installation Process

Our team follows a proven process to ensure a level, secure foundation:

1. Mark posts’ placement with batter boards and string lines using a plumb bob to mark the post’s center precisely.
2. Dig post holes deep enough to find solid soil, making holes 1 foot in diameter.
3. Prepare the hole bottom by compacting loose gravel and dirt using professional equipment.
4. Install concrete forms using cylindrical forms, which make leveling footings easier.
5. Pour concrete until full and allow complete curing time for drying.
6. Install post anchors flush in slightly-firm concrete, ensuring they’re in line with each other.

Working on Both Sides of the Slope

For sloped properties, our process addresses both the upper and lower sections of your yard.

1. We start at the top of the slope and dig two foundation holes for the first side.
2. Then we dig two additional support holes for the other side of the deck at the lower part of the slope.
3. We measure beams with a string to ensure adequate length for your specific slope.
4. We use a water bubble level to check if posts are level as the concrete dries, and tie strings at the desired deck height as guides for floor beams.

Step 5: Build the Deck Substructure

The deck’s substructure includes support posts, beams, joists, and a ledger board.

The wood substructure we build supports the deck’s load, with decking boards installed on top.

We ensure proper joist spacing according to your specific deck design and follow the manufacturer’s substructure spacing instructions for your chosen decking type.

Step 6: Attach Posts and Deck Beams

We measure deck posts from the bottom to the deck’s height, accounting for one extra foot on the end of each post to be cut later.

We attach posts and deck beams using 3-inch bolts or nails for maximum security.

We frame both sides using appropriate-length beams based on your chosen package and decking type.

Step 7: Attach the Floor Beams

We attach floor beams to deck beams using 3-inch nails or metal braces for secure attachment. Metal braces are especially useful on slopes because they provide extra stability.

We follow specific building codes for the correct spacing of your decking floor beams.

Step 8: Install the Deck Surface

Install Deck Surface

Our installation process adapts to your material choice while maintaining the highest standards. We ensure full compliance with local deck building codes throughout installation.

Preparation and Material Handling

We store decking properly in a flat and cool place to avoid direct sun exposure, which can increase board temperature and length.

We cut decking only when ready to install; we never cut boards too far in advance, as they can contract or expand.

Laying and Fastening Deck Boards

We place deck boards with a 1/8″ to 1/4″ side-to-side gap between boards. This gap allows for expansion and contraction as temperature and humidity change.

We use deck screws to lay deck boards and fasten decking into framing with screws according to product guidelines.

We use top-down fasteners for the best results and to minimize movement and gapping.

We drive screws a minimum of 1.25″ deep into the solid wood substructure.

Finishing Your Decking

For wood decking selections in our Standard package, we ensure proper finishing to protect your investment.

For composite decking in our Deluxe and Premium packages, the materials are pre-finished and require minimal maintenance, allowing you to enjoy your deck right away without extensive finishing work.

Step 9: Add Railings and Safety Features

Finish with Railings and Accessories

We ensure your deck meets all safety requirements and exceeds your expectations.

We consult with local building offices to ensure all guardrail regulations are met and check local building codes for railing spacing, baluster width, and height requirements.

Railing Code Requirements

• Railing is required for decks 30″ above the ground or taller in most areas.
• Guardrails must be 36″ or taller per code.
• Typical railing height is 36 to 42 inches.
• Baluster gaps must be less than 4″ wide, and we maintain no more than 9 inches of space between each baluster.
• Bottom rails must be less than 4″ above the deck surface.

Railing Options at Regal Home Improvement

We offer multiple railing choices to match your deck package and style:

• Wood Railings: Included in our Standard package, these provide a classic, traditional look
• Vinyl Railings: Featured in our Deluxe package, these are low-maintenance and durable
• Metal or Composite Railings: Available in our Premium package, these offer a modern, high-end appearance

Each railing option is installed to code and built to last, with proper spacing and secure attachment throughout.

Common Deck Additions and Upgrades

Beyond your base deck package, Regal Home Improvement offers popular upgrades and additions to enhance your outdoor space:

• Deck Lighting: Illuminate your deck for evening entertaining and safety.
• Built-in Seating: Create functional seating areas that maximize your space.
• Pergola: Add shade and architectural interest to your deck.
• Drink Rails: Perfect for entertaining, these keep beverages within reach.
• Storage Space: Utilize the area under your deck for convenient storage.
• Fireplace: Create a gathering space with warmth and ambiance.

These additions transform your deck into a true outdoor living space where you can spend time with family and friends.

Slope Meets Success with Regal Home Improvement

Your sloped backyard has been waiting for its moment to shine, and Regal Home Improvement is ready to make it happen. With over 70 years of experience transforming hillsides into stunning outdoor living spaces, our team knows exactly how to turn your slope into the beautiful deck of your dreams.

Fill out our contact form today or give us a call to start planning your perfect outdoor space.