Beautiful custom composite deck built by Dream Decks overlooking a Minnesota backyard
Dream Decks
Licensed Minnesota Contractor

Custom Deck Builders &
Outdoor Living Contractors
in Minneapolis–Saint Paul

We design and build custom decks that extend your living space outdoors. Quality craftsmanship with premium materials, backed by a 10-year warranty.

Expert Deck Building
Services in Minnesota

Dream Decks specializes in custom deck construction, from initial design through final build. We use premium materials and proven construction methods to create outdoor spaces that last decades.

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Licensed Minnesota Contractor

Fully licensed and insured for residential and commercial projects.

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10-Year Craftsmanship Warranty

We stand behind our work with industry-leading warranty coverage.

Close-up of premium composite deck boards installed by Dream Decks
35+
5-Star Reviews

Twin Cities Deck Builders With Deep Local Experience

For over a decade, Dream Decks has designed and built custom decks throughout the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area. From historic neighborhoods in Minneapolis to newer developments in the West Metro suburbs, we understand the structural, permitting, and climate challenges unique to Minnesota deck construction.

Deck building in the Twin Cities requires more than carpentry skill. Minnesota's 42-inch frost line, freeze-thaw cycles, snow load requirements, and municipal inspection standards all influence how a deck must be engineered. Our team ensures every footing is installed below frost depth, every ledger board is properly flashed and secured, and every railing system meets Minnesota residential code.

We regularly build decks in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, Woodbury, and surrounding metro communities. Whether your home sits on a sloped lot, a compact urban property, or a spacious suburban yard, we tailor each design to maximize structural integrity, usable space, and long-term durability.

Our experience across the Twin Cities allows us to anticipate soil conditions, HOA requirements, city-specific permit processes, and neighborhood style expectations — helping your project move smoothly from design consultation to final inspection.

Deck Permits & Minnesota Building Code Requirements

Building a deck in the Twin Cities typically requires a structural permit when the deck is attached to a home or elevated above 30 inches. Municipalities such as Minneapolis and St. Paul enforce specific requirements for frost footings, guardrail height, stair geometry, and ledger board attachment.

In Minnesota, deck footings must extend below the 42-inch frost line to prevent heaving during winter freeze cycles. Proper anchoring, flashing, and structural hardware are critical to protecting your home's foundation and ensuring long-term stability.

Our team handles the permitting process, inspection scheduling, and structural compliance for homeowners throughout Hennepin County, Ramsey County, Dakota County, and surrounding areas. We design every deck to meet or exceed Minnesota Residential Code standards.

By managing these requirements in advance, we eliminate delays and ensure your new deck passes inspection efficiently.

42"
Frost Line Depth
36"–42"
Railing Height Required
50 lb/ft²
Snow Load Design

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck in the Twin Cities?

Deck costs in the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro vary based on size, materials, design complexity, and site conditions. While every project is unique, typical ranges include:

Cedar Deck (200 sq ft)
$15,000–$22,000
Composite Deck (200 sq ft)
$22,000–$32,000
Multi-Level Composite
$40,000+
Covered Porch / Screened
$45,000+

Factors influencing cost include:

  • check_circleMaterial selection (Trex, TimberTech, AZEK, cedar)
  • check_circleStair configuration
  • check_circleRailing system type (cable, aluminum, composite)
  • check_circleSite grading or slope
  • check_circlePermit and inspection requirements
  • check_circleLighting and accessory integration

We provide detailed, transparent estimates so Twin Cities homeowners understand exactly what their investment includes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Minneapolis?expand_more
Yes, most attached or elevated decks require a structural permit and inspection. Minneapolis requires permits for decks over 30 inches above grade. Our team handles all permit applications and coordinates inspections throughout Hennepin County.
What is the frost depth requirement in Minnesota?expand_more
Deck footings must extend at least 42 inches below grade to prevent frost heave during Minnesota winters. This is a non-negotiable building code requirement that we strictly follow on every project throughout the Twin Cities.
What is the best decking material for Minnesota winters?expand_more
Composite decking from Trex, TimberTech, or AZEK performs well against moisture and freeze-thaw cycles, requiring minimal maintenance. Cedar offers natural beauty with seasonal maintenance requirements. We help homeowners choose the right material for their budget and lifestyle.
How long does a deck take to build?expand_more
Most custom deck projects in the Twin Cities are completed within 2–4 weeks after permits are approved. Complex multi-level decks or projects with pergolas may take 4–6 weeks. Weather and permit timelines can affect the schedule.
How much does it cost to build a deck in Minneapolis?expand_more
Deck costs vary based on size, materials, and complexity. Cedar decks typically start around $15,000–$22,000 for 200 sq ft, while composite decks range from $22,000–$32,000. Multi-level and covered structures can exceed $45,000. We provide detailed, transparent estimates.
Minneapolis–Saint Paul Metro

Twin Cities Deck Builder

Serving 70+ communities across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro. Explore deck costs, permit requirements, and material options for your area.

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42" frost footings • MN building codes • Composite vs cedar comparison

Why Choose Dream Decks?

We combine expert craftsmanship with quality materials to build decks that last. Here's what sets us apart from other deck builders.

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Licensed & Insured

Minnesota Builders License BC807994. Fully insured for your protection and peace of mind.

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10-Year Warranty

We stand behind our work with a comprehensive warranty on materials and craftsmanship.

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Expert Craftsmen

Our skilled team has years of experience building decks across Minnesota.

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Custom Designs

Every deck is designed to match your home, lifestyle, and budget requirements.

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On-Time Completion

We respect your time and complete projects on schedule without cutting corners.

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Premium Materials

We use top brands like Trex, TimberTech, and AZEK for lasting beauty and durability.

Watch Our Deck Builds

See our work in action. Check out our YouTube channel for project walkthroughs, time-lapse builds, and deck care tips.

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See Our Craftsmanship

Our video library features completed deck projects throughout Minnesota, including time-lapse builds showing our process from start to finish. Watch how we handle custom designs, multi-level decks, and challenging installations.

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    Project time-lapse videos
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    Before and after transformations
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    Deck maintenance tips

Real Reviews from Real Customers

See what our customers are saying about Dream Decks on Google. We're proud of our 5-star reputation built on quality craftsmanship and exceptional service.

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Ready to build your
dream deck?

Schedule a free site visit with our deck design experts. We serve Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and the surrounding Twin Cities metro area.

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