Lehigh Valley | Philadelphia Deck Contractor

This is one of the most common questions we receive, and understandably, due to the wide variety of options available. 

For Pennsylvania’s extreme winters and hot summers, we highly recommend a powder-coated aluminum railing system. These railings are designed to stand up to the tough elements, are stronger than composite and provide long-lasting durability, and they don't break the bank!

If your deck is a long-term investment just make sure your installer is not selling you cheap quality composite railing from the box store shelf. Trex makes a low quality railing exclusively for box stores and many contractors sell it to maximize installation profits. These composite railings look like the premium versions but are delicate, painted with a matte finish that don't provide any protection from fading and scratching. You'll get a couple of good years out of it before it starts showing signs of wear, fading and staining. Visit our railing page for more details.

We offer a range of decking materials, including composite decking (such as Trex and TimberTech), pressure-treated wood, PVC and more. Our recommendations depend on your preferences for durability, maintenance, appearance, and budget. We will help you choose the best option for your needs. As a 25-year deck builder, we know first hand which products withstand the Pennsylvania elements year round and best installation methods for each product. Visit our decking materials page for more details.

Avoid pressure treated wood sold at the box stores, this wood is saturated and is prone to warp and rapidly shrink after installed, it is a low quality wood sold at comparable a price to premium #1 wood from other suppliers. 

 The time it takes to build a deck depends on several factors, including the size, complexity, and type of materials used. On average, most decks can be completed in 1 to 2 weeks. Smaller, simpler decks may take as little as 3-5 days, while larger or more intricate designs could take up to 3 weeks or more. We'll provide you with a more accurate timeline after assessing your specific project needs during the site visit. Rest assured, our team works efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of quality craftsmanship.  

Yes, in most cases, a permit is required for deck construction. Local building codes and regulations vary, so we handle all permit applications for you, ensuring your deck is built to code and complies with your municipality's requirements. We will discuss this with you

We offer a contractor warranty for our installation services, and most of the materials we use come with a manufacturer's warranty. This gives you peace of mind that your deck is protected against defects and issues for years to come. 

We specialize in deck replacements and upgrades. Whether you want to refresh your deck’s appearance or replace an old structure with a more durable, modern one, we’ll guide you through the process and ensure a smooth transition.  Visit our deck replacement page for more details

The cost of building a deck varies depending on factors like size, materials, design complexity, and location. On average, decks can range from $6,000 to $15,000 or more, some projects we've completed have been over $120,000. We offer detailed, all-inclusive price estimates to ensure transparency and help you plan your budget effectively with smarter choices for materials.

Try to avoid the vague estimates you receive from contractors, Unfortunately, many homeowners experience the pitfalls that come with vague, lump-sum pricing from contractors—material quality used, low-quality installations, unexpected charges, and unpleasant surprises that can quickly derail your budget. You can get a ballpark price for basic deck size and shape here

 Over the past two years, we've seen an increase in calls for deck light repairs, which is why we've added this important FAQ to help clarify our approach.

Q: Do you repair all types of deck lighting?

A: We first ask if your deck lights are from a recognized American brand manufacturer.

• If yes – We’ll be happy to come out, troubleshoot, and repair your lighting system to restore its function.
• If no – We will not attempt a repair. Based on previous experiences with non-branded lights, we’ve found that many of these systems are unreliable, and attempting repairs would likely waste both your time and ours.

Important Note: We’ve noticed a rise in the use of inferior, overseas-made deck lighting, particularly from online marketplaces like Amazon. These lights, often purchased at a fraction of the price of quality, name-brand products, are prone to quick burnout and failure. While they may look similar to higher-end lighting options, the difference in quality is significant—and sometimes, what you think is premium lighting could actually be counterfeit.

For long-term performance and peace of mind, we strongly recommend replacing these lower-quality systems with reliable, durable lighting solutions from trusted, American manufacturers. We’re here to help guide you toward the best options for your deck, ensuring you get the most out of your outdoor space.

 Composite decking is often marketed as low-maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water to remove dirt and debris. While this is true for general upkeep, regular cleaning and periodic inspections are still recommended to ensure the long-term durability and appearance of your deck.

Here are a few key maintenance tips:

• Check for Sagging: If you notice your deck boards are sagging between the joists (particularly with Trex decking), it’s important to address this issue immediately. Left unchecked, the combination of sagging and direct sunlight can soften the material, potentially leading to permanent warping.
• Clean Spills Promptly: Spills, especially from BBQ grease or food, should be cleaned as soon as possible. If left untreated on a deck that's a couple of years old, these stains can become difficult or impossible to remove.

Regular attention to these areas can help prevent issues and keep your composite deck looking great for years to come. If you have any concerns about your deck’s condition or need assistance with maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out!

  In recent years, we've seen an increase in requests for cable railing repairs. To ensure we provide the best service, we first ask whether your cable system is from a reputable American manufacturer.

• If Yes: We’ll come out, troubleshoot, and repair your system as needed.
• If No: Based on past experiences with non-branded systems, we will not attempt repairs. This approach helps save both time and frustration for everyone involved.

Important Note: We've observed an increasing use of low-quality, China-made cable railings installed by some local deck builders, making it hard for us to compete against. These systems, often purchased from online marketplaces like Amazon, are prone to rusting, sagging, and deteriorating much faster than high-quality options. Although they may look similar to premium stainless steel cable railings, they often cost a fraction of the price—sometimes as little as 1/10 of the cost. Unfortunately, you often get what you pay for, and what you may think is a high-end product could actually be counterfeit.

We do not service these inferior cable railings. Instead, we strongly recommend replacing them with durable, name-brand systems that include built-in tightening options for easy maintenance. This ensures long-term performance, safety, and peace of mind.