Building More Decks in 2026: Our Crew's Plan

At the end of every year, I sit down with the crew and ask one question: "What do you want to do more of next year?"

This year, the answer was unanimous. No hesitation. Every single person said the same thing: decks.

Why Our Crew Loves Building Decks

I wasn't surprised, honestly. When the guys are framing a deck. measuring joists, setting posts, laying boards. there's a different energy on the jobsite. It's hard to describe, but I'll try.

It's the transformation. A kitchen remodel takes weeks of working inside someone's home, navigating around their life. A deck build? You show up to a backyard with nothing, and in a matter of days, you've created something from scratch. You can stand back and see the whole thing. There's a satisfaction in that you don't get with a lot of interior work.

It's the teamwork. Deck builds are physical, coordinated work. Somebody's cutting, somebody's carrying, somebody's fastening. Everyone's moving. Nobody's standing around waiting for a subcontractor or a material delivery. The whole crew is engaged, start to finish.

It's being outside. After a long Ohio winter spent inside crawl spaces and basements, there's nothing like spending a spring day building something in the sun. The guys are happier. The work is better. It shows in the finished product.

What This Means for 2026

We're leaning into it. Here's what we're planning for this deck season:

More Capacity for Deck Projects

We've adjusted our scheduling to take on more deck builds this year. That means shorter wait times for homeowners who reach out in spring. historically our busiest period.

Expanded Material Options

We've been deepening our relationships with suppliers for Trex, TimberTech, and Azek composite lines. More color options. Better pricing. Faster availability.

We're also still building pressure-treated decks for homeowners who want a quality build at a lower price point. No judgment. PT lumber, properly maintained, lasts 20+ years in our climate.

Continued Focus on Lake-Effect Engineering

Building in Ashtabula County means building for extreme weather. Every deck we build uses:

These aren't upgrades. For us, they're standard practice where the approved design and site conditions support them.

The Projects We're Most Excited About

The crew specifically mentioned a few types of builds they want to tackle more of this year:

Multi-Level Decks

These are the showpiece projects. A main entertaining level stepping down to a ground-level patio area, maybe with built-in benches or planters connecting the two. They require more planning and precision, and the guys love the challenge.

Covered Deck Additions

Adding a roof structure over a portion of the deck extends the usable season by months. In Northeast Ohio, where a random afternoon thunderstorm can roll in off the lake, covered space is a game-changer. We're seeing more homeowners request this, and we're ready.

Deck Replacements

A lot of the decks built in the early 2000s are reaching end-of-life. The framing might be salvageable, but the decking, railings, and stairs need to go. These projects are rewarding because homeowners see a dramatic improvement in a short timeframe. and often at a lower cost than a full tear-down and rebuild.

Why It Matters That the Crew Cares

Here's something homeowners don't always think about: the people building your project should actually want to be building it.

When a carpenter is excited about the work, they take more care. They notice details. They take pride in getting that last board lined up perfectly, or making sure the railing cap is flush and smooth to the touch.

I've been in construction long enough to know the difference between a crew going through the motions and a crew that's invested. When my guys say they want to build more decks. that's not just a preference. That's a promise about the quality you'll get.

Planning Your 2026 Deck Build

If a new deck is on your list this year, here's the smartest way to approach it:

January to March: Reach out for an estimate. We can meet on-site, talk through your vision, and get you a detailed quote. This is also when material prices tend to be lowest.

April to May: Lock in your build date. Our schedule fills fast once the ground thaws. Early planners get first pick of timing.

June to September: Build season. Most deck projects take 5-10 days depending on complexity. You'll be grilling on it before the Fourth of July if we start early enough.

What a Deck Costs in Ashtabula County (2026)

We believe in transparent pricing. Here's where things stand:

These include: Footings, framing, decking, stairs, railing, and permits. Your proposal defines the scope and pricing, and any allowances are identified up front.

Let's Build Something This Year

The crew is ready. The materials are sourced. The schedule is open. for now.

If you've been thinking about a deck, a porch, or any outdoor living space, this is the year to make it happen. Give us a call or fill out the estimate form. We'll come take a look and give you an honest number.

📞 Call (440) 224-4121 or request a free estimate.