Deck building in Uptown, Mid-City, Lakeview and Algiers
Uptown and Mid-City houses are often raised a few feet on piers, with narrow lots and side alleys. That makes access part of the plan: lumber and boards come through a gate or down a driveway, and decks are sized to tight setbacks. Raised decks here usually line up with the back door, so stairs and railings take up a real share of the design.
In Lakeview and Gentilly, many homes were rebuilt or lifted after 2005, and some sit well above grade. Those decks need taller posts and careful bracing. In lower parts of Broadmoor and Algiers, yards hold water after storms, so we keep framing clear of standing water and make sure air can move freely under the deck. Posts in those yards get footings set deep enough to stay put when the ground is saturated.
Most decks in New Orleans need a city permit depending on size and elevation, and properties in historic districts under the HDLC can need approval for changes visible from the street. We plan for both before construction starts. For larger yard projects that include a deck, see our backyard renovation work in New Orleans, where the deck is planned together with patios, drainage and lighting.