Tag Archives: deck contractor advice

Why Most People Build Decks at the Wrong Time of Year

Why Most People Build Decks at the Wrong Time of Year

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably think spring or early summer is the time to build a deck. Birds are chirping, the sun is out, and you’re dreaming of backyard barbecues.

But here’s a little secret from the pros: by the time the warm weather hits, it’s already too late.

Let’s break down why spring and summer might actually be the worst times to start your deck project—and when you should be planning and building instead.

1. Everyone Else Has the Same Idea in Spring

Spring is when homeowners rush to book deck contractors—and the surge is real. That means:

  • Longer wait times
  • Busier schedules
  • Higher demand (and sometimes higher pricing)
  • Your deck might not even be done by summer

By the time your project is approved, scheduled, and built… you’re looking at late summer or even fall before it’s ready.

2. Fall and Winter Are the Industry’s Best-Kept Secrets

While most people are raking leaves or putting up holiday lights, smart homeowners are building their decks. Why? Because:

  • Contractors have more availability
  • Permit offices are less slammed
  • Material prices may drop during the off-season
  • You beat the rush before the next warm season

Fall is the perfect time to start planning and designing. Winter is ideal for builds (yes—even in cold climates).

3. Yes, You Can Build a Deck in Cold Weather

Many people assume that winter weather makes deck building impossible. Not true. As long as the ground isn’t frozen solid, experienced builders can still dig, pour footings, and construct solid decks.

In fact, some advantages of winter builds include:

  • Frozen ground = less lawn and landscaping damage
  • No humidity = better material stability and curing
  • Less disruption to your spring/summer activities

Just make sure you hire a contractor who’s equipped for winter work—they’ll know how to adjust for cold temps and ground conditions.

4. More Time = Better Design

When you start planning in fall or winter, you’re not racing the clock. That gives you more time to:

  • Explore materials and decking options
  • Finalize permits and designs
  • Incorporate extras (lighting, built-ins, drainage, etc.)
  • Avoid last-minute regrets or rushed decisions

Building a great deck isn’t just about hammering boards—it’s about smart planning. Off-season gives you breathing room.

5. Enjoy Your Deck From Day One of Spring

The biggest win? When your deck is done before spring hits, you get the entire season to enjoy it. No waiting. No sawdust. Just backyard bliss from the very first warm weekend.

Final Thoughts: Build Smart, Not Seasonal

If you’re waiting until spring to start your deck project, you’re already behind. Fall and winter are the real MVPs when it comes to smart scheduling, better availability, and faster turnarounds.

So while your neighbors are still calling around for quotes in May… you’ll already be out back with your feet up and a drink in hand.

Pro tip: Planning starts now. Reach out early, lock in your design, and let the crew work their magic while the weather’s cool.

Composite Decking Myths That Need to Go

Composite Decking Myths That Need to Die

Composite decking has come a long way since the early 2000s, but old rumors still float around like ghosts at a backyard BBQ.

You’ve probably heard stuff like:

“It looks plastic.”
“It gets too hot.”
“It’s way more expensive.”
“It’s slippery when wet.”

Let’s end these myths once and for all—because modern composite decking isn’t just better than people think, it might be the smartest investment you can make.

Myth #1: “Composite Looks Fake and Plastic-y”

This one might’ve been true 20 years ago, but now? Not even close.

Today’s composite decking is designed to mimic real wood grain with stunning realism. Some brands even offer multi-tonal colors, texture variations, and matte finishes that feel and look like premium hardwood—without the splinters or sanding.

Truth: High-quality composites like Trex, TimberTech, and Deckorators offer rich, natural-looking boards that fool even seasoned contractors at first glance.

Myth #2: “Composite Gets Way Too Hot in the Sun”

All decking materials—including wood—will heat up under direct sunlight. Composite isn’t immune, but newer boards are engineered with heat-mitigating technology that outperforms many hardwoods.

Truth: Lighter colors reflect heat better, and brands like Deckorators’ Voyage series are made to stay cooler underfoot.

Pro tip: Want a cooler deck? Choose lighter tones, provide shade, and avoid placing dark outdoor rugs that trap heat.

Myth #3: “It’s Too Expensive”

Yes, composite decking has a higher up-front cost than wood. But here’s what people forget:

  • You won’t need to stain, seal, or paint it every year
  • It won’t warp, crack, or rot
  • It lasts 25–50 years with minimal upkeep
  • Many come with 25–50 year warranties

Truth: Over time, composite is often cheaper than wood. It’s a one-time investment with long-term savings—and fewer Saturday afternoons spent staining.

Myth #4: “It’s Slippery When Wet”

Not anymore. Modern composite decking has enhanced traction, even when wet or covered in morning dew. Some brands are specifically rated for commercial slip resistance, which makes them great for pool areas, stairs, and rainy regions.

Truth: Composite decking is no more slippery than sealed wood—and often safer, since it doesn’t splinter or crack underfoot.

Myth #5: “You Can’t Customize Composite Decks”

This one’s just flat-out wrong. Composite can be used in:

  • Picture-frame borders
  • Custom inlays
  • Multi-color patterns
  • Built-in benches, lighting, and planters
  • Unique shapes and multi-level builds

Truth: Composite is extremely versatile, and in many ways easier to customize than wood due to its uniformity and consistency.

Myth #6: “It’s Maintenance-Free”

Alright, let’s set the record straight: no decking is truly 100% maintenance-free. But composite comes close.

You’ll still want to hose it off a few times a year and maybe scrub it with soap and water if pollen or mildew builds up. But that’s about it.

Truth: No sealing. No sanding. No refinishing. Just clean it now and then and you’re golden.

Final Thoughts: Stop Believing the Rumors

Composite decking has matured. It’s stronger, better-looking, safer, and longer-lasting than most homeowners realize. And while haters will keep clinging to outdated myths, the truth is clear:

Composite is here to stay—and it’s probably the smartest upgrade your deck can get.