Thinking about adding a deck to your historic home in Wheat Ridge? You’re not alone, and you’re not the first to run into some confusion around what’s allowed.
Historic homes come with charm, character, and… quite a few rules.
If you’re like most homeowners in Wheat Ridge, you love your vintage home but also want the modern comfort of a backyard deck. Whether it’s for summer BBQs, sipping coffee in the mornings, or just having more usable outdoor space, a deck makes sense. But the big question is: Can you actually build one on a historic home without getting hit with a fine or being forced to tear it down?
Let’s break it all down so you can stop stressing and start planning.
What Makes a Home “Historic” in Wheat Ridge?
Before diving into deck additions, it’s important to understand what qualifies a property as historic.
In Wheat Ridge, homes may be considered historic if:
- They’re over 50 years old
- They maintain their original architectural style
- They are located in a designated historic district or have been individually designated
If your home is officially listed on the local, state, or national historic register, it’s subject to specific preservation rules. These rules aim to protect the architectural and historical integrity of the area, meaning changes like new additions (yes, including decks) need to be reviewed.
Can You Add a Deck to a Historic Home?
Short answer: Yes, but with conditions.
You can usually add a deck, but there are layers of approvals and guidelines to follow. You’ll likely need to go through:
- Historic Preservation Review: Especially if the deck will be visible from the street or affect the structure’s appearance.
- Building Permits: All new constructions need a permit, regardless of the home’s age.
- Zoning Rules Compliance: Setback, height, and lot coverage rules still apply.
To ensure your design meets city standards, you’ll probably have to submit drawings, materials lists, and sometimes even historical research about your property.
Design Guidelines: What the City Typically Looks For
When reviewing deck additions on historic homes, cities like Wheat Ridge care about one thing above all: compatibility. Your new deck shouldn’t look like it belongs on a modern mansion.
Here’s what reviewers typically consider:
- Location: Rear-facing decks are generally easier to get approved than side or front-facing ones.
- Materials: Natural wood or wood-look alternatives that match the home’s era are preferred. Avoid flashy composites.
- Size: The deck shouldn’t overwhelm the home. Proportional design is key.
- Railings and Stairs: Keep them simple and cohesive with your home’s historic style.
Wheat Ridge Climate and Why It Matters
Let’s talk weather. Wheat Ridge has a semi-arid climate with hot summers, cold winters, and occasional snow loads. This means two things for your deck:
- Durability Matters: You need materials that can handle freeze-thaw cycles without cracking, warping, or rotting.
- Drainage & Footings: Proper drainage and deep footings (to prevent heaving) are essential. Building codes take this into account.
So even if you design a beautiful deck that meets historic standards, it also has to meet structural requirements based on our specific climate.
Step-by-Step: What You Need to Do Before Building
Here’s a quick roadmap for getting your historic deck project approved and underway:
- Check Your Home’s Status
Use the city or county assessor’s website to confirm if your home is registered as historic. - Get the Design Right
Work with professionals who understand local historic guidelines. Sketch out your design and pick materials that make sense. - Submit for Historic Review
Applications go to the local historic preservation office or review board. Expect some back-and-forth. - Apply for Permits
Once the design is approved, head over to the building department for construction permits. - Build it Right
Hire experienced builders who follow the approved plans. Avoid last-minute changes they could void your permit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Adding a deck to a historic home isn’t the time to “wing it.” These are the top mistakes homeowners often make:
- Skipping the review process: It might seem like a hassle, but it’s mandatory.
- Choosing modern materials: A Trex deck may be easy to maintain, but it could get rejected in a historic review.
- Overbuilding: Bigger isn’t always better. Keep it proportional to your house.
- Assuming backyard projects are always allowed: If your home is in a historic district, even a hidden deck needs approval.
Top Decking Manufacturers for Historic Homes
The Best Decking Brands for Durability and Historical Compatibility
When it comes to picking materials for a deck on a historic home, you want something that looks the part but lasts.
Here are some of the top decking material brands homeowners trust:
- TimberTech:
Offers wood-look composite decking that mimics natural grain without the maintenance headaches. - Fiberon:
Known for eco-friendly, recycled-content boards with a classic wood appearance. - Trex:
Popular and low-maintenance, but choose their more subtle, natural finishes for historic homes. - Deckorators:
Offers wood-alternative materials with textured finishes that work well in period-specific settings. - Cali Bamboo:
Durable and sustainable bamboo decking that’s great for blending modern needs with older aesthetics.
Why Choose Us to Build Your Deck on a Historic Home?
Trust a Team Who Knows Historic Deck Additions Inside and Out
We’ve been building decks on historic properties for years. This isn’t our first rodeo, and we know the balance between preserving charm and upgrading for comfort. Our team is full of pros who understand both design and regulation. We work with your vision, keep the paperwork on track, and make sure the final result looks like it belongs.
As with anything in life, working with the right team makes all the difference. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about doing it right the first time, saving you money, headaches, and red tape.
Ready to get your deck project started?
Contact us at (720) 215-1072 and let’s bring your vision to life without the stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a deck on my historic home without city approval?
No. If your home is designated as historic, you need approval from the historic preservation office before building.
How long does the approval process take?
It can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on your design and how quickly you respond to requests for revisions.
Are composite decks allowed on historic homes?
Sometimes. If they closely mimic the appearance of natural wood and are used appropriately, they may be approved.
Can I place the deck in my front yard?
This is rarely approved for historic homes. Rear-facing decks are far more likely to get the green light.
What if my home isn’t officially listed as historic but is over 50 years old?
It depends on whether it’s in a designated district. Always check with your local planning department to be sure.
Do I need a permit even if I’m building a small deck?
Yes. Almost all decks, regardless of size, require a building permit in Wheat Ridge.
Will a deck affect my property value?
When done right, yes, it can increase usability and curb appeal, especially if it respects the home’s character.
What kind of maintenance do historic-compatible decks require?
Natural wood decks need staining and sealing. Composite decks need regular cleaning but less upkeep overall.
Final Thoughts
Adding a deck to your historic home in Wheat Ridge is totally doable; it just takes a bit of planning and patience. But the end result? A beautiful, functional outdoor space that adds value without taking away from your home’s history.
Take your time with the design, follow the rules, and work with a team that knows how to navigate the process smoothly.
When you’re ready, contact us at (720) 215-1072. Let’s make that dream deck a reality.