Who actually does the work?▸
Deck Defenders, a division of Kenney Construction: the same licensed, insured and bonded company (VA DPOR #2705187519) handles the work, not a subcontracted third party.
What areas do you serve?▸
Herndon, Reston, Vienna, Great Falls, McLean, Oakton, Chantilly and Centreville in Fairfax County, and Ashburn, Sterling, South Riding and Aldie in Loudoun County.
How do I know if my deck needs repair or replacement?▸
It depends on the structure underneath, not the surface. If the framing, ledger and footings are sound, board replacement and resurfacing may be enough. If the structure itself is failing, replacement is the safer call.
Do I need a permit to replace my deck?▸
Yes. Fairfax County says building permits are required before building a new or replacing an existing deck, Loudoun County requires building and zoning permits for all decks, the Town of Herndon requires a permit for all decks, and Vienna adds Town zoning review.
Do I need a permit to repair my deck?▸
Sometimes. Fairfax County requires a permit to alter an existing deck, and Virginia's building code leaves some minor, ordinary repairs to the building official's judgment. We confirm with the right office for your project.
How deep do deck footings have to be in Fairfax and Loudoun?▸
Both counties' typical deck details require footings at least 24 inches below grade, bearing on solid ground.
Can a deck be attached to a brick house?▸
Not to brick or stone veneer. Fairfax County's details prohibit ledger attachment to veneer, chimneys, overhangs and bay windows and require a free-standing or engineered deck instead; Loudoun's detail has similar limits.
How high does a deck railing need to be?▸
At least 36 inches where a guard is required (decks more than 30 inches above grade), with no opening that lets a 4-inch sphere through.
How often should I check my deck?▸
Fairfax County's building official recommends evaluating your deck annually and having it inspected regularly by a licensed contractor, more often as it ages. NADRA promotes May as Deck Safety Month.
Is the deck safety inspection really free?▸
Yes. Deck Defenders offers a free deck safety inspection to homeowners in the Fairfax and Loudoun communities we serve, with no obligation.
Is this the same as a county inspection?▸
No. County inspections are done by Fairfax County, Loudoun County or Town of Herndon inspectors on permitted work. Ours is a contractor's visual check of your deck's condition; it isn't a licensed home inspection and doesn't certify code compliance.
What happens if you find a problem?▸
We tell you what we found and, if work is needed, give you a repair or replacement estimate. There's no obligation.
Should I choose wood or composite?▸
Wood costs less upfront but needs regular staining and sealing. Composite costs more upfront but needs little maintenance and holds its color longer.
Can you turn my deck into a screened porch?▸
Often, if the structure can carry a roof and walls or can be reinforced. A screened porch is permitted as its own project, not under the typical deck details.
Do you provide written estimates?▸
Yes. Every project gets a written scope so you know what's included before work starts.
What are your hours?▸
Monday – Saturday, 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM. Call (703) 731-9208.