When planning a new deck, one of the first things to consider is who to hire. People who own homes often compare small, locally owned builders to big national or regional companies that spend a lot of money on advertising. Both say they provide good service, but the results and experiences can be very different. The choice you make will affect not only how your project turns out, but also the whole planning and building process.
We often compete with big companies at Decked Out Builders. Many homeowners come to us after getting estimates from big-name companies that looked good but didn’t have enough information, options, or personal service. You can make the best long-term choice by knowing the differences between local and corporate builders.
Understanding the Difference
A local deck builder is usually an independent business that serves specific communities. These companies focus on building relationships and maintaining their reputation through consistent quality. The owner is often directly involved in every project.
A big company operates on volume. They manage multiple crews, handle dozens of projects at once, and rely heavily on standardized designs and sales teams. While their marketing may look polished, the actual work is often subcontracted to smaller crews that you never meet until the day work begins.
Decked Out Builders operates as a local family-owned company based in the Northwest Suburbs. We manage each project internally, from design to construction, with the same team you meet at your consultation.
Communication and Personal Attention
Communication is one of the most important parts of any deck project. Local builders typically offer direct contact with the owner or project manager, which creates accountability and faster responses. Questions are answered quickly, and changes are handled smoothly.
Many times, big businesses depend on more than one department. During the estimate, you talk to a salesperson. Then you talk to a different coordinator to set up the schedule, and then you talk to another person to get updates on the construction. This way of talking to each other can lead to delays and misunderstandings.
At Decked Out Builders, you will always have the same point of contact from start to finish. Our project manager oversees design, inspections, and progress, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Local builders depend on their craftsmanship to maintain their reputation. Every project represents their name in the community. For that reason, they focus on precision, cleanliness, and detail.
Large companies often prioritize speed and output. They use crews that may not specialize in advanced decking systems or premium materials. Because they manage multiple job sites at once, they sometimes use the same framing approach for every project rather than customizing it to the property.
Decked Out Builders builds every deck to exceed Illinois code standards. Our framing includes properly spaced joists, beams, and posts using pressure-treated or steel materials, all rated for exterior exposure. We include details such as picture framing, breaker boards, and fascia on every project for a clean, professional finish.
Material Selection
When it comes to choosing materials, local builders usually give you more options. They get supplies from several different places and help homeowners pick the best options for their design and budget.
To make things easier, big companies often only let you choose from a few brands or collections. This can make it difficult to customize things and force people to settle for a certain color, finish, or texture.
Decked Out Builders works with well-known brands like Westbury, IG Railing, Deckorators, and TimberTech to give you full access to their collections, colors, and finishes. We bring samples to you so you can see how they feel, look, and last before making a choice.
Design Flexibility
Every home and yard is different. A custom design ensures your deck complements the property and your lifestyle.
Large companies tend to rely on pre-designed templates. These designs work for standard layouts but may not suit irregular yards or unique features like slopes or retaining walls.
Every project that Decked Out Builders works on is unique. We use 3D software to show you how your home will look, where the furniture will go, and how it will all work together. Our method lets you be creative while keeping the structure strong.
Cost and Value
Big businesses sometimes use low prices at the start or seasonal deals to get customers. But those prices usually don’t include important parts like stairs, fascia, or permits. Later on, extra fees show up, making the total much higher than the original quote.
Most of the time, local builders give you a quote that includes everything and shows you the real cost of the finished project. This helps you make accurate comparisons and keeps you from having to pay for things you didn’t expect.
Decked Out Builders gives you a full project total that includes everything. We tell you what kind of framing, decking brand, railing system, and finishing details you need to know about each part of your investment.
Accountability and Warranty
After the project is done, being accountable is the most important thing. You need to know who to call if there is a problem and that they will get back to you right away.
It can take a long time or be hard to process warranty claims for big companies that move crews between regions. Smaller, local builders depend on happy customers and word of mouth, so they are quicker to respond and stand behind their work.
All of Decked Out Builders’ projects come with a 5-Year Craftsmanship Warranty, and the company deals with warranty claims directly with the manufacturers. You will never be sent to a corporate call center or an automated system.
Local Knowledge and Building Codes
Building codes and permit requirements in Illinois are different in each city and county. A local builder who works with building departments in the area knows the process and requirements inside and out.
Big companies often miss or don’t understand local codes, which can cause inspections to fail or take longer. Decked Out Builders takes care of all the inspections and permits for you. Our familiarity with McHenry County and surrounding municipalities allows us to manage approvals efficiently and avoid costly delays.
Long-Term Relationship and Trust
When you hire a local builder, you are working with someone who has a permanent presence in your community. They depend on repeat business and referrals, which encourages them to maintain high standards.
Advertising and volume are more important to big businesses. Once your project is complete, you might never speak to the same person again.
Decked Out Builders maintains ongoing relationships with our clients long after the project is complete. Many homeowners return to us for additional outdoor projects such as covered porches, outdoor kitchens, and screen rooms.
Why Decked Out Builders Is the Right Choice
We take pride in being a local, family-owned business that values honesty, professionalism, and good work. Because we are small, we can still offer personal service while having the tools, resources, and knowledge of a bigger company.
Every project receives hands-on attention from experienced professionals who care about the details that make your deck stand out. From exact framing specifications to finishing details like fascia and picture framing, we build every deck to last and to look exceptional.
Build Local, Build Better
Hiring a local deck builder gives you personal service, accountability, and craftsmanship that large companies cannot match. When you choose Decked Out Builders, you gain a partner who values communication, precision, and your satisfaction from start to finish.
Start your project today and experience the difference of working with a dedicated local team.
Contact Decked Out Builders | 815-900-5199
