Building a deck is more than adding a place to sit outside. It’s about creating a space that blends comfort, function, and design with the rest of your home. Whether you’re replacing an old structure or starting fresh, understanding what to consider before construction helps you avoid mistakes and achieve the best outcome.
At Decked Out Builders, we believe preparation is the foundation of a successful project. From permits to design details, our process ensures that your new deck enhances your home and lifestyle for decades to come.
Check Local Building Codes and Permit Requirements
Before breaking ground, confirm that your deck design meets local building regulations. Each municipality in Illinois has its own requirements for deck height, railing spacing, footing depth, and load capacity.
Decked Out Builders handles this step for every client. We prepare drawings, submit for permit approval, and coordinate with inspectors to ensure compliance from the start. This saves you time, prevents construction delays, and guarantees your deck meets all safety standards.
Consider How You’ll Use the Space
Your deck layout should match your lifestyle. Think about how you plan to use the space year-round.
Common uses include:
- Outdoor dining or grilling areas
- Lounging zones with seating or fire features
- Covered sections for shade and seasonal protection
- Hot tub or spa placement
- Pathways connecting to patios or gardens
A deck should be more than a platform, it should function as an extension of your home. The right design balances open space with purpose-built features that make outdoor living comfortable.
Choose the Right Materials
Material selection determines your deck’s longevity, maintenance needs, and appearance.
Composite and PVC Decking
Most homeowners today choose composite or PVC decking for their durability, low maintenance, and color consistency. Brands like Deckorators Voyage and TimberTech Advanced PVC resist fading, moisture, and staining while maintaining the look of real wood.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Still a classic choice for budget restraints, but it requires staining or sealing every one to two years to prevent rot and discoloration. Over time, the maintenance cost often exceeds the upfront savings.
Framing Options
Pressure-treated framing is standard, while steel framing offers superior strength for long-term performance, especially under composite decking.
At Decked Out Builders, we walk you through each option so you can choose what best fits your goals, budget, and maintenance expectations.
Plan for Function and Flow
Decks should connect naturally to your home and yard. Before design work begins, think about access points and flow:
- Where will stairs lead—toward the yard, patio, or driveway?
- Does your current door location make sense for deck access?
- Will you want privacy features like screens, lattice, or planters?
- Should the deck tie into a covered porch or future addition?
Our design process, we present 3D renderings so you can visualize how your deck interacts with the rest of your property. Every layout is tailored to maximize comfort, movement, and views.
Understand the Build Timeline
The timeline to complete a deck depends on size, design, and weather. Most projects take 1–3 weeks once construction begins. Preparation, design, and permitting typically take a few additional weeks.
Starting early in the year allows you to secure a spot on the schedule before peak season. Decked Out Builders also designs projects through winter so construction can begin as soon as weather allows.
Budget for Quality
Budgeting for a deck should be based on long-term value, not just the initial number. Higher-quality materials and proper installation save thousands in future repairs and upkeep. A properly built composite deck lasts decades with minimal maintenance, making it a sound investment for your home.
Decked Out Builders provides all-inclusive quotes that clearly define what’s included with no hidden costs or confusing itemized breakdowns. You’ll receive a detailed scope of work and fixed total project price before construction begins.
Why Homeowners Choose Decked Out Builders
- Local, family-owned company specializing in decks and outdoor living spaces
- 3D design renderings before construction
- Premium composite and PVC materials
- 5-Year Craftsmanship Warranty
- Clean job sites and consistent communication
- Financing options available
We focus on structural integrity, clean lines, and craftsmanship that shows in every detail.
Start Your Project With the Right Foundation
Building a deck starts long before the first post is set. With thoughtful planning and the right team, you’ll enjoy a finished space that’s functional, low-maintenance, and built to last.
Let Decked Out Builders guide you through the process—from design to completion. Visit our Design Center in Crystal Lake, submit your project details through our contact form, or call to get started today.
👉 Contact Decked Out Builders | Call 815-900-5199
