Deck & Porch Construction in Ely, Minnesota

Turn Your Property Into an Outdoor Retreat

In forested landscapes, outdoor living isn't just an amenity—it's a lifestyle. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and a tight-knit community spirit, homeowners in Ely, Minnesota, and nearby areas such as Winton, Babbitt, Tower, Embarrass, and Morse often seek meaningful ways to expand their living space and connect more fully with the outdoors. One of the most rewarding ways is through professionally designed and constructed decks and porches.


For over 20 years, Rock Country Masonry has helped homeowners throughout northeastern Minnesota build seamless transitions between indoor comfort and outdoor charm. Whether it’s a screened porch overlooking Shagawa Lake or a multi-level cedar deck nestled among towering pines, every project is committed to architectural integrity, structural soundness, and lasting materials suited for Minnesota’s rugged climate. Decks and porches must be carefully constructed, especially considering the seasonal extremes of snow, ice, and intense summer sun. 


Choosing a local expert with experience in frost-heave mitigation, moisture protection, and native material compatibility ensures your investment is beautiful and built to last. Each project is guided by a personalized process, from rustic timber-frame porches to modern composite decks with built-in lighting. Ely’s unique blend of historic cabins, lakefront homes, and year-round residences calls for creative design solutions and code-compliant execution. That’s where decades of local knowledge truly make a difference. Let your home breathe easier and feel more expansive with an expertly constructed porch or deck that reflects your lifestyle and enhances your surroundings.

Our Deck & Porch Construction Services

Custom Deck Design & Construction

Every home is different, and each deck must complement its terrain and style. We provide custom design services tailored to your property’s layout, ensuring optimal views, access, and structural integrity for the local environment. The result is a deck that looks stunning and withstands extreme weather fluctuations.

Screened Porches

Screened-in porches provide insect protection and shaded comfort during summer months. Engineered mesh screens allow refreshing breezes while keeping out seasonal black flies and mosquitoes. Structural reinforcements ensure your porch endures snow loads and wind. A screened porch becomes a functional sanctuary just steps from your main living area.

Covered & Wraparound Porches

A porch with a roof provides weather protection and architectural charm. These porches shield you from heavy snow in winter and offer shade during warm summer afternoons. Extended rooflines, sturdy support columns, and water management systems ensure long-term durability against the precipitation levels. Whether it’s enjoying a snowfall or watching loons, these porches create inviting year-round gathering spaces.

Multi-Level Decks

Perfect for sloped lots or lakefront properties, multi-level decks allow homeowners to make the most of their terrain. These dynamic designs offer separate zones for cooking, lounging, and dining. Railings, under-deck storage, and integrated lighting further enhance functionality and safety, making your property more beautiful and usable every season.

Composite Decking Installation

Durable and low-maintenance, composite materials are a great fit for homeowners looking to minimize upkeep. These materials are ideal for lakefront properties or remote cabins, where moisture control is critical. Slip-resistant surfaces, hidden fasteners, and UV protection ensure long-term performance while preserving the natural beauty of your retreat.

Deck & Porch Renovations

We renovate and restore aging decks and porches to meet modern standards and elevate overall functionality. Upgrades may include modern railings, weatherproof decking, code-compliant stairs, or new roof systems for better year-round protection. Renovations enhance safety and aesthetics and extend the usable life of your outdoor living space.

Benefits of Professionally Built Decks & Porches

Superior Craftsmanship and Durability

Professionally built decks and porches are constructed with expert precision, ensuring long-lasting structural integrity. Builders have the expertise to select the right materials for your specific environment, whether it's moisture-resistant woods, composites, or treated lumber. Proper installation techniques prevent warping, sagging, or premature deterioration.

Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

A skilled contractor can design and build decks and porches that seamlessly match the home’s architecture and landscape. Custom railings, stain colors, lighting options, and layouts can all be tailored to fit personal style and home aesthetics. The result is an outdoor area that feels like a natural extension of the home.

Increased Property Value

Well-designed outdoor living spaces are highly desirable to potential buyers. A professionally constructed deck or porch can increase resale value by adding functional square footage and visual appeal. Many buyers see these spaces as ready-to-use entertainment or relaxation zones, making your property stand out in a competitive market.

Optimal Functionality and Usability

Professionals carefully plan layouts to maximize usable space, account for traffic flow, and incorporate features like built-in seating, lighting, and weather protection. Every inch of the deck or porch is optimized for comfort and convenience, whether for large gatherings or quiet evenings. This thoughtful planning ensures the space serves multiple purposes year-round.

Compliance with Building Codes and Permits

Experienced deck and porch builders know local building regulations, permits, and safety codes. They handle all necessary documentation, inspections, and compliance requirements to ensure the project is legally sound. A professionally built structure also provides peace of mind knowing it meets or exceeds all safety standards.

Time and Cost Efficiency

Hiring professionals minimizes mistakes, project delays, and material waste. Their experience allows for accurate budgeting, efficient scheduling, and proper use of high-quality materials. Professional services often save both time and money, delivering a superior product on schedule and within budget.

Outdoor Living Spaces Built for Comfort and Durability

A well-designed porch or deck isn’t just an extension of your home—it’s an invitation to connect more deeply with the outdoors. Whether hosting summer barbecues or sipping morning coffee, your outdoor space should be as welcoming and enduring as your indoor spaces. For homeowners, building with purpose means balancing form and function with long-lasting craftsmanship. Serving in Ely, Minnesota, and surrounding areas, including Tower, Embarrass, and Winton Rock Country Masonry, fulfills the needs of the residents.

Unlike mass-produced kits or DIY efforts, professional deck and porch construction ensures your structure meets code and harmonizes with the Northwoods setting. At the same time, finishes are tailored to accentuate your home’s architectural style—rustic log cabin or contemporary getaway. It’s an extension of your lifestyle and a reflection of your surroundings. When done right, it’s a space you’ll use and love for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need a permit to build a deck in Ely, Minnesota?

    Yes, most decks and porches require a building permit issued by St. Louis County. Professional builders ensure all plans meet local codes and inspection standards. Permits also guarantee your deck complies with zoning, setback, and environmental regulations, especially near lakes, wetlands, or protected areas common in the Ely region.

  • What materials hold up best in Northern Minnesota’s climate?

    Cedar, pressure-treated lumber, and composite materials are ideal for withstanding heavy snow, freeze-thaw cycles, and moisture levels common to this region. These materials resist rot, warping, and insect damage, which are common concerns in wooded and lakefront areas like Tower and Winton.

  • How long does it take to build a custom deck or porch?

    Construction timelines vary by size and complexity but generally range from two to six weeks, including permitting, site prep, and build phases. Weather conditions and site accessibility, especially in remote or heavily forested properties around Babbitt and Embarrass, may affect scheduling.

  • Can you build a porch or deck on a sloped lot or near a lake?

    Yes, our experience in Ely and surrounding towns equips us to design and construct on challenging topography, including steep grades and waterfronts. Specialized supports, pier systems, and erosion control measures ensure safety and long-term durability even on irregular or sloped lots.

  • Are screened porches usable during winter months?

    Yes, with the right design. Adding storm panels or removable glass inserts allows screened porches to stay functional even during colder weather in towns like Embarrass. Optional features like heated flooring or space heaters can further extend seasonal usage into late fall and early spring.

  • Do you offer design consultations before construction?

    Absolutely. We begin each project with a personalized consultation to understand goals, assess the site, and recommend the best solutions for your home. This allows us to address factors unique to your location, such as prevailing winds, sun exposure, and optimal views of Ely’s natural beauty.

  • What’s the difference between composite and wood decks?

    Wood decks offer natural beauty and are often more budget-friendly. Composite decks, while more expensive upfront, require less maintenance and are more resistant to Ely’s harsh weather. Composite options also resist staining, splintering, and fading, making them ideal for high-traffic or lakeside properties.

  • How do you handle footings and foundations in freezing climates?

    Footings are placed below frost line depths—typically 5 feet or more in the Ely area—to prevent heaving and structural issues during freeze-thaw cycles. We also use reinforced concrete piers and advanced drainage techniques to ensure long-term stability through Minnesota’s challenging winters.

HAPPY CUSTOMERS!

What our customers say

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Beautiful work. Completed ahead of schedule. Wonderful to work with. Definitely recommend Patrick and his team.

Catherine P.

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Great Company. I've worked with Patrick on several projects and they've always turned out amazing.

Peter C.

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Pat was very professional and easy to work with. He communicated and coordinated well with the other groups (painters and contractors) that were working on my building as well. His work was expertly done and was only delayed because of weather - out of his control. To make up for the weather he worked many long days to make sure my project was finished on time. Highly recommend giving him a call! Feel free to send me a message if you want more details.

Joe T.

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