What does it mean when it is stated that a deck is freestanding?

A freestanding deck is characterized by being supported entirely by vertical posts rather than being anchored or attached to any walls of a building. This means that the deck stands independently and does not rely on any structural support from a house or other adjacent structures. The primary advantage of a freestanding deck is versatility; it can be placed anywhere on a property without the need for connection to existing structures, which allows for a variety of design options and the ability to accommodate different landscaping features.

In contrast, a deck that is supported by at least one wall relies on the structural integrity of that wall for stability. A balcony that is attached to a roof implies that it is an extension of the building itself and is not a standalone structure. Likewise, a deck situated over a structure typically refers to a deck that is built above another building or deck and again would not be considered freestanding due to its reliance on other structural elements for support. Therefore, the defining characteristic of a freestanding deck lies in its complete independence from walls or structures for support.