Most people know that "built to code" is a good thing. It's how you know a structure is safe enough to stand on, strong enough to hold your furniture and guests, and built well enough to pass inspection.
As an Akron deck builder that pulls permits and works with inspectors on every project, we think it's worth explaining what code really means, and why it matters when you're investing in a deck or porch.
Why Akron Deck Contractors Pull Permits
From a distance, permits look like bureaucracy. But when you’re close to the process, you see something else: independent verification that the work is being done correctly. Inspection means knowing that an independent person is making sure the footing, framing, and structure as a whole are safe.
When a builder skips the permit, they skip those inspections. And it’s entirely possible that everything turns out OK. But if something goes wrong, you won't find out until the deck starts sagging or the porch roof starts leaking. And by the time that happens, the fix is a lot more expensive than doing it right the first time would have been.
And speaking of expenses, unpermitted work often shows up on home inspections. That’s not fun when you’re trying to sell your house or get one insured. And if someone hurts themselves on your property, you could be looking at liability issues too. It’s just not worth it to skip the permit.
Rules around rail height and baluster spacing keeps people from falling over rails or through the bars. And the rules around stair dimensions keep you from tripping on uneven stairs. The same basic principle applies to handrails—the rules make sure they are where they need to be for you to use them safely.
Then there are more technical matters that are important to consider as well. Code spends a good deal of time talking about ledger boards, which is what attaches decks to houses. Likewise, it’s the same for footing depths, because the right depth protects the structural integrity of your deck or porch.
Why Ohio-Specific Knowledge Matters for Akron Deck Companies
Building codes vary by location, and there's a good reason for that. Unlike in Texas, we in Northeast Ohio see a lot of cold weather. So footings need to extend below the frost line—typically 36 to 42 inches in this area. Otherwise, the freeze-thaw cycle will cause them to move around over time. You can imagine what that does to a deck after a few winters of heaving and settling.
Snow loads matter too, especially for porch roofs. Our lovely winters can drop heavy, wet snow that sits on structures for days. Any Akron porch contractor can tell you what that can do to outdoor structures from firsthand experience.
This is where Archadeck of Akron has an advantage most deck companies don't: our owner, Patrick Sluss, is a Construction Engineer. That’s not just a fancy title for LinkedIn. It means he has formal training in how structures bear loads, how materials perform under stress, and how to design builds that don't just meet code but perform well over time. He knows the rules, why they exist, and how to meet them.
You can check out our galleries to see examples of what that engineering mindset produces in finished projects.
Code Is the Floor, Not the Ceiling
Passing inspection is good. But the goal of inspection is to keep you safe and keep your deck or porch from collapsing.
Akron deck and porch companies follow the codes because they’re required for safety. But reputable builders often go beyond what's required. They’ll take extra steps like using closer joist spacing for a stiffer deck surface, larger footings for extra stability, better flashing details to keep water out for the long haul. It might cost more now, but it’s strong investment in the long run.
At Archadeck, our commitment to better building means we're not just trying to pass inspection. We're building something we are proud of, that we would build for our own home.
Ready to Build a Deck That Will Last?
A deck or porch is a big investment in your property. You're spending money and trusting that the finished structure is safe for your family and guests. Code compliance is the baseline that ensures you're getting what you paid for.
But working with a contractor who understands why codes exist—and has the engineering background to exceed them where it matters—means you get more than the minimum. You get something built right and built to last.
If you're starting to think about a project, download our free design guide to explore your options.
If you are ready to take next steps, call Patrick Sluss, our local Archadeck franchisee and master design consultant, for a no-obligation, complimentary design consultation. You can connect with Patrick and his team of deck experts by calling 330-537-6412, or by clicking this link right here.
