Elevated Design · Sloped Lots · Multi-Level Outdoor Living
Multi-Level Decks in Central Pennsylvania
A sloped backyard isn't a problem — it's a design opportunity. TrueCraft Decking specializes in multi-level deck designs that work with your yard's terrain to create distinct outdoor zones for dining, lounging, and entertaining.
Made for Central PA Terrain
Cumberland, Dauphin, York, and Lancaster counties all feature rolling terrain — and that means a large percentage of Central PA backyards have meaningful grade changes. Many homeowners in Hampden Township, York Township, and the hills south of Lancaster City have yards that drop 3 to 8 feet from the house to the back of the property.
Rather than fighting the slope with expensive grading and retaining walls, a multi-level deck design works with the terrain. The upper level sits just off the back door at house height — perfect for a dining table and grill. A staircase descends to a lower level at or near grade — ideal for a fire pit, hot tub pad, or play area. The result is more usable outdoor square footage than a single flat deck would provide, and the visual drama of a tiered outdoor living space.
Multi-level decks are one of TrueCraft's most frequently requested project types. We have extensive experience designing around the specific grade challenges common to Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg, and York-area lots.
Multi-Level Design Options
Every yard is different. Here are the most common multi-level configurations TrueCraft builds.
L-Shape Split Level
Two connected deck areas at different heights, arranged in an L around a corner of the home. Efficient use of space and naturally divides dining from lounge zones.
Upper Dining + Lower Lounge
Classic two-level layout: upper deck (10–30" above grade) for table and grill, lower ground-level platform for seating, fire pit, or hot tub. The most popular configuration.
U-Shape Wraparound
Deck wraps around two or three sides of the home at multiple levels, following the home's footprint. Maximizes access points from different rooms.
Elevated Deck with Under-Deck Storage
When the lower level of your deck is 4+ feet off grade, the space underneath becomes valuable. TrueCraft can frame in a dry storage area or build an underdeck ceiling system.
Second-Story Deck
Off a second-floor walkout or above a garage, elevated 8–12 feet. Requires substantial structural engineering but delivers views and access in ways ground-level decks cannot.
Structural Considerations: Built Right, Built Safe
Multi-level decks involve more structural complexity than single-level builds. TrueCraft designs every elevated deck to exceed PA code requirements.
Post Sizing & Beam Spans
Taller posts require larger cross-sections to resist lateral loads. We size posts and beams per the IRC span tables and local amendments — not just what's "good enough" to pass inspection.
Ledger Board Attachment
Pennsylvania requires IRC-compliant ledger board attachment for all house-attached decks. TrueCraft uses through-bolted ledger connections with flashing, never just lag screws into siding.
Lateral Bracing
Tall elevated decks need diagonal bracing to resist wind and horizontal loads. We engineer X-bracing or knee bracing into the design where required by height.
Footing Depth
Central PA frost depth is 36 inches. All footings for multi-level decks must extend below this line or the deck will heave seasonally. We never cut corners on footing depth.
Stair Design for Multi-Level Decks
The staircase connecting deck levels is one of the most-used features of a multi-level deck — and one of the most scrutinized by building inspectors. Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code requires a minimum 36-inch stair width, maximum 8¾-inch riser height, and 9-inch minimum tread depth. TrueCraft designs stairs that are not just code-compliant but comfortable to use every day.
Open Riser Stairs
Modern, airy look with no riser boards. Composite tread boards on a steel or composite stringer. Open risers show off the deck framing and create a lighter visual weight.
Closed Riser Stairs
Traditional solid stair with both tread and riser boards. Cleaner appearance, no space between steps (safer for small children and pets), easier to shovel in winter.
Lighting Integration
Recessed LED stair lights are one of TrueCraft's most popular add-ons. We rough-in low-voltage wiring during the build so stair lighting can be added at any time.
Best Materials for Multi-Level & Elevated Decks
For decks elevated 4 feet or more off the ground, composite decking is the clear choice. Wood boards on elevated decks are prone to rot in areas that don't get sun and air circulation — underside conditions that are hard to inspect and nearly impossible to repair without major disassembly. Quality composite boards are impervious to moisture, will never rot, and maintain their appearance for decades.
Regardless of decking material, the structural framing — posts, beams, joists — is always pressure-treated lumber. Composite structural framing is not a standard offering in the residential market; PT lumber, properly installed and flashed, is the correct choice for all framing.
Design Your Multi-Level Deck
TrueCraft Decking serves Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, York, Lancaster, and all of Central PA. We'll visit your yard, measure the grade change, and design a multi-level deck that makes the most of your space.
Request a Free Estimate