Frequently Asked Questions

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PRICING

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• How much does a deck cost in Kansas City?

Deck pricing varies depending on whether you're resurfacing an existing deck, building a new composite deck, or creating a covered outdoor living space. Most resurfacing projects range from $18,000–$35,000+, while new composite decks typically range from $25,000–$55,000+. Covered decks, screened porches, and larger outdoor living projects often start around $60,000+ and can exceed $100,000 depending on features and complexity.

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• What impacts deck pricing the most?

The biggest factors that affect deck pricing are materials, railing systems, stairs, lighting, demolition, permits, and roof structures. Two decks of the same size can have very different costs depending on the features selected. Premium Trex decking, aluminum railing, custom stairs, and covered structures are often some of the largest contributors to overall project investment.

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• Is composite decking more expensive than wood?

Yes. Composite decking typically costs more upfront than traditional wood decking. However, many homeowners choose composite because it requires significantly less maintenance and is designed to resist fading, staining, and moisture-related wear. Over time, the reduced maintenance requirements can make composite decking a valuable long-term investment.

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• Is financing available?

Yes. Urban Designs offers financing options through Enhancify to help homeowners invest in their outdoor living projects with manageable monthly payments. Financing may be available for qualified borrowers and can be used for decks, screened porches, covered outdoor living spaces, and other eligible improvements. Visit our Financing page to learn more about available financing options and programs.

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👉 Visit our Financing Page to learn more

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Want to learn more about project costs?
👉 View our Deck Pricing Guide

 

CONSTRUCTION

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• Do I need a permit for a deck in Johnson County?

In most Johnson County municipalities, a permit is required when building a new deck or making structural changes to an existing deck. Permit requirements can vary by city, project size, and scope of work. Urban Designs handles the permitting process and helps ensure projects meet local building code requirements. Permit costs are typically included in your project estimate.

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• Can I resurface my existing deck instead of rebuilding it?

Possibly. A deck resurface is often an option when the existing framing and structural components are still in good condition and meet current building standards. During the design and consultation process, we evaluate the deck's structure to determine whether resurfacing is appropriate or if a full rebuild is the safer long-term solution.

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• How long does it take to build a deck?

Most deck projects take anywhere from one to several weeks to complete depending on the size, complexity, permitting requirements, weather conditions, and selected features. Projects that include roof structures, screened porches, fireplaces, lighting, or custom details typically require additional time. A project schedule is provided before construction begins whenever possible.

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• Do you pull permits for deck and outdoor living projects?

Yes. Urban Designs handles the permitting process, including plan preparation, permit applications, and coordination with local municipalities. Permit requirements vary by city, but our team works directly with local building departments to help ensure your project meets applicable code requirements. Permit costs are typically included in your project estimate, so homeowners have a clear understanding of the investment from the beginning.

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• Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. Urban Designs is fully insured and maintains an active Johnson County Class A Contractor License, along with the required business licenses for the municipalities where we perform work. We also coordinate project plans, permitting, inspections, and code compliance requirements to help provide homeowners with a professional and streamlined construction experience.

Contractor license verification is available through Johnson County Contractor Licensing. Urban Designs and Development, LLC is listed under Company Number 2026-0004587.

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Need more information about permits and project requirements?
👉 Read our Johnson County Deck Permit Guide

 

TREX

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• What does it mean to be a Trex Pro Platinum contractor?

Trex Pro Platinum is the highest level of recognition awarded by Trex to qualified contractors. This designation is based on factors such as experience, product knowledge, installation expertise, and a proven history of building Trex projects. Urban Designs is proud to be the only Trex Pro Platinum contractor serving the greater Kansas City area, demonstrating our commitment to quality craftsmanship and industry-leading outdoor living construction.

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Verify Our Trex Pro Platinum Profile

👉 View Our Trex Contractor Profile

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• Do you build decks using products other than Trex?

Yes. While we can build with other composite decking products, Trex is our preferred recommendation for most projects. Over the years, we have worked with multiple composite decking manufacturers and have found Trex to offer an excellent combination of durability, aesthetics, innovation, and warranty protection. We believe Trex provides long-term value and helps homeowners feel confident in their investment.

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• What is the difference between Trex Enhance, Select, Transcend, and Lineage?

Trex offers several decking lines designed to fit different budgets and design preferences. Enhance is Trex's most affordable composite option, while Select offers upgraded aesthetics and durability. Transcend is Trex's premium decking line with enhanced color options and realistic wood-grain patterns. Lineage is Trex's newest premium collection, featuring heat-mitigating technology and elevated design options for luxury outdoor living spaces.

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• Is Trex decking worth the investment?

For many homeowners, yes. Trex decking offers long-term durability, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to common issues like rotting, splintering, and frequent staining. While the upfront investment is typically higher than wood, many homeowners appreciate the reduced maintenance and long-term performance that composite decking provides.

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• Does Trex decking get hot in the summer?

Like virtually all outdoor decking materials, Trex decking can become warm when exposed to direct sunlight. However, color selection, sun exposure, and airflow all affect surface temperatures. Trex's Lineage collection was specifically engineered with heat-mitigating technology designed to stay cooler than many standard composite decking options under similar conditions.

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Explore Trex decking colors, collections, and options.
👉 Visit our Trex Collection Page

 

SCREENED PORCHES

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• Can I use a screened porch year-round?

A screened porch can be enjoyed throughout much of the year, especially during the spring, summer, and fall months. Many homeowners choose to add features such as ceiling fans, heaters, fireplaces, or retractable screens to extend the comfort and usability of their outdoor living space during cooler weather conditions.

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• Can I add heaters to a screened porch?

Yes. Many homeowners choose to incorporate heaters, fireplaces, ceiling fans, lighting, and other comfort features into their screened porch design. These additions can help extend the outdoor living season and create a more comfortable environment during cooler months. The best solution depends on the size, layout, and intended use of the space.

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• Does a screened porch add value to my home?

A professionally designed and constructed screened porch can add both functional and perceived value to a home. In addition to creating additional living and entertaining space, screened porches are highly desirable to many homebuyers. While every market is different, outdoor living improvements are often considered one of the most attractive upgrades homeowners can make.

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See what's possible with a custom screened porch or covered outdoor living space.
👉 Explore our Screened Porch Services

 

ABOUT URBAN DESIGNS

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• How long has Urban Designs been in business?

Urban Designs has been designing and building premium outdoor living spaces throughout the Kansas City area since 2008. Over the years, we have completed projects ranging from deck resurfacing and custom composite decks to screened porches, covered outdoor living spaces, and large-scale backyard transformations. Our focus has always been delivering exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a professional customer experience.

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• What makes Urban Designs different from other deck builders?

Since 2008, Urban Designs has built a reputation for premium outdoor living construction throughout the Kansas City area. As the region's only Trex Pro Platinum contractor, we combine industry-leading products with experienced craftsmanship, owner involvement, and meticulous attention to detail. From structural construction to the final finish work, our focus is delivering clean, well-executed projects built for long-term beauty and performance.

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• What areas do you serve?

Urban Designs serves homeowners throughout the greater Kansas City area, including Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, Shawnee, Leawood, Prairie Village, and surrounding Johnson County communities. We also serve select areas throughout the Kansas City metro depending on project type and location. If you're considering an outdoor living project, contact our team to discuss your specific area.

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Learn more about our company, team, and process.
👉 Visit our About Us Page

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• Who manages my project?

At Urban Designs, the owners remain actively involved throughout the project process, from design and planning through construction. Our experienced foremen have been with the company for many years, with our newest field leader joining the team in 2015. This continuity helps ensure consistent communication, quality control, and craftsmanship from start to finish.

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• Why do homeowners choose Urban Designs?

Homeowners choose Urban Designs because of our experience, craftsmanship, and commitment to detail. We believe premium outdoor living spaces require more than quality materials—they require precise installation, thoughtful design, and careful execution. Our focus on clean lines, accurate construction, and long-term durability has helped us earn the trust of homeowners throughout the Kansas City area since 2008.

👉 Read our Customer Reviews

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