Twin Cities Decks and Winter Care

By Ishaq Khokhar. Updated October 10, 2026. 2 min read.

Short answer: A Twin Cities deck has to survive deep frost, heavy snow and freeze and thaw cycles. Footings typically go at least 42 inches deep to stay below the frost line, decks must carry snow loads, and wood needs sealing before winter. Check ledger boards, railings and footings every spring, and get a permit for new decks.

Minneapolis and Saint Paul homeowners make the most of a short outdoor season, and a good deck is a big part of that. But Minnesota winters are hard on decks. This guide covers building and caring for a Twin Cities deck.

What winter does to decks

Frost heave: shallow footings can lift and shift as the ground freezes.
Snow loads: heavy, wet snow stresses joists and beams.
Freeze and thaw: water in wood expands and loosens fasteners.
Ice melt: rock salt damages wood and some composite boards.

Illustration of deck boards with a dark rotted and cracked area — Soft or rotted boards can break underfoot and need replacing.

Building a deck that lasts

Footings typically at least 42 inches deep, below the frost line
Joists and beams sized for local snow loads
Proper ledger flashing where the deck meets the house
Corrosion resistant fasteners and connectors
Composite or well sealed wood

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Illustration of a new raised deck with composite boards and dark metal railings beside a house — A new deck with composite boards and code height railings.

Seasonal care

Spring: check footings, ledger, railings and stairs.
Summer: clean and stain wood decks in dry weather.
Fall: clear leaves and seal before winter.
Winter: use a plastic shovel and avoid rock salt.

Read deck maintenance and Minneapolis ice dams and frozen pipes.

Permits and licensing

Most new decks need a permit from the City of Minneapolis or the City of Saint Paul Department of Safety and Inspections. Residential building contractors in Minnesota are licensed by the Department of Labor and Industry.

Illustration of vinyl siding dented, cracked and holed by hail, with hailstones on the grass below — Hail can dent, crack and punch holes in siding, letting rain into the wall behind it.

Local help in the Twin Cities

Illustration of a wooden deck with railings on the back of a house — A deck needs sound boards, railings and a secure connection to the house.

Quick answers: twin Cities deck

How deep do deck footings go in the Twin Cities?

Typically at least 42 inches, below the frost line. Check with your city.

Do I need a permit for a deck in Minneapolis or Saint Paul?

Most new decks and major rebuilds need a permit.

Is composite decking good for Minnesota winters?

Composite resists rot and needs less upkeep, and handles freeze and thaw well when installed correctly.

Can I use rock salt on my deck?

It can damage wood and some composite boards. Use a plastic shovel and a deck safe ice melt.

Who builds decks in the Twin Cities?

Sifixit can connect you with local deck builders.

This guide covered twin Cities deck. For more background, see the FTC’s advice on hiring a contractor and avoiding home improvement scams, and if you need help, Sifixit can connect you with a local provider.

This guide is general information for homeowners, not professional, insurance or safety advice for your situation.

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