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Porch / Deck Pre-Estimate Checklist

Help us understand your outdoor living project and determine pricing feasibility

1 Client Contact Information
We'll use this information to reach out regarding your porch or deck project.
2 Property Information
Tell us about the property where your porch or deck will be located.
3 Project Type
What kind of outdoor living space are you looking for?
4 Size & Layout
Help us understand the dimensions and configuration.
Michigan Code Requirements:
• Guardrails required when the deck surface is 30 inches or more above grade
• Guardrail height: Minimum 36 inches (34 inches measured from stair nosing on stairs)
• Baluster spacing: Maximum 4-inch openings (cannot pass a 4" sphere)
• Stair dimensions: Maximum 8¼" riser height, minimum 9" tread depth
• Handrail: Required on stairs with 4 or more risers, installed 34"–38" above tread nosing
• Stair width: Minimum 36 inches clear
5 Materials
What materials are you interested in?
Michigan Code Note: All structural lumber in contact with the ground or within 6 inches of grade must be pressure-treated or naturally durable wood. Deck boards, joists, and beams must meet span tables per the Michigan Residential Code. Hardware (joist hangers, post bases, bolts) must be rated for the lumber type being used (ACQ-compatible hardware for pressure-treated wood).
6 Screening & Enclosure
Complete this if your project includes screening or enclosure
7 Foundation & Structure
Help us understand the structural requirements.
Michigan Code Note: Deck footings must extend 42 inches below grade (frost depth) per Michigan Residential Code. Ledger board attachment to the house must use lag bolts or through-bolts per Table R507.2 (Michigan Residential Code) — nails alone are NOT permitted for ledger connections. Flashing is required at the ledger board to prevent moisture intrusion.
8 Budget Pre-Qualification
Help us understand your budget expectations.
Tier 1: $5,000–$15,000
Standard deck or porch with pressure-treated lumber, basic railing, and standard footings. Great for a simple outdoor living space.
Tier 2: $15,000–$35,000
Upgraded deck with composite decking, premium railing, built-in features, and professional lighting. Ideal for an enhanced outdoor experience.
Tier 3: $35,000+
Premium outdoor living — screened porch, covered structure, multi-level deck, premium materials, and custom features throughout.
Note: Pricing depends on size, materials, elevation, features, and site conditions.
9 Timeline
When do you want to start your project?
10 Decision-Making & Readiness
Are you ready to move forward with your porch or deck project?
11 Michigan Building Code Compliance
Key Michigan code requirements for deck and porch construction.
Michigan Code Requirement: Decks and porches require a building permit. A site plan showing the deck location, setbacks, and dimensions is typically required. Inspections are required at footing, framing, and final stages. Dream To Reality Construction handles all permit applications and coordinates inspections.
Michigan Code Note (2023 NEC): All outdoor receptacles require GFCI protection. If adding electrical outlets or lighting to the deck/porch, an electrical permit is required. Outdoor-rated fixtures and weatherproof covers are required for all exterior electrical installations.
Michigan Code Requirement: Decks must be designed for a minimum 40 PSF live load (50 PSF for areas of public assembly). In Michigan's Upper Peninsula, snow load requirements (ground snow loads of 60–80+ PSF depending on location) must be factored into the design of covered porches and roofed structures.
Michigan Code Note: If the deck provides the primary exit from a door, it must not impede emergency egress. Deck stairs must lead to grade level and meet code stair dimensions. Landings are required at the top and bottom of stairs (minimum 36" x 36").
12 Acknowledgment
Please review and acknowledge the following:

What Happens Next?

We'll review your checklist and contact you within 24 hours to schedule your on-site estimate. No obligations — just honest conversation about your porch or deck project.

Questions? Contact Us