If you’ve ever tried Googling “deck building process,” you’ve probably found plenty of vague, generic advice that’s about as useful as a screen door on a submarine. This is different.
We’re pulling back the curtain on exactly how we take a deck from idea to finished space (the same process that’s helped hundreds of Madison homeowners end up with a maintenance-free deck, screen porch, or 3-season room they love).
Whether you’re just starting to think about your project or ready to get on our schedule, here’s what working with our team actually looks like.
1. Request a Free Estimate
Our sales team is small but mighty. When you reach out, we aim to get back to you within 1 business day by phone, then follow up by email to lock in a time for your free estimate.
Did You Know? We’re one of the most responsive contractors in the Madison and Appleton/Green Bay area. Many of our clients tell us we were the only company to follow up within a couple of weeks.
2. Free Estimate & Design Conversation
Someone from our sales team will meet you at your home to talk through your vision, how you’ll use the space, and what matters most to you.
We’ll ask about your budget so we can give you realistic, creative options. Within 1–2 business days, you’ll get a detailed, interactive digital estimate outlining every single thing we’ll do from demo and fasteners to the final touch.
Your estimate also includes:
- A 2D drawing of your proposed deck
- Photos of your current space
- Maintenance-free decking material options broken down by price and available colors
“Communication was clear and consistent throughout the entire project… Even my neighbors commented how professional and dedicated they were.” – Jackie T. (Madison Homeowner)
We’re told (often) that our estimates are more thorough than our competitors’. That’s intentional.
Pro Tip: The more detail you give us in this conversation (how you entertain, how many people usually gather, even which direction the sun hits), the more we can tailor the design so it works perfectly for your lifestyle. Ex. We rarely recommend horizontal cable railing for families with young children as they are extremely climbable and can be unsafe.
3. Reserve Your Spot
When you’re ready to move forward, you can sign your agreement and pay a 25% deposit to hold your place in our schedule. Depending on the time of year, we’re usually booked out 2–5 months which gives us time to get all the prep work done right. We know for some, that might seem like a long wait, but anyone who’s available immediately likely has a free schedule for a reason. The best contractors are worth the wait.
4. Finalize Your Materials & Finishes
Your salesperson will come back to confirm all your color and material choices. We’ll bring decking and railing samples to your home and pull up photos from our internal gallery so you can see the exact finishes you’re considering in the context of a completed deck.
“We very much appreciate… the professionalism, creativity, and friendliness of Brian and Tyler. The entire process from beginning to end was a pleasant experience.” – Brent H (Madison Deck Build)
5. Permits, Drawings, and Materials
Behind the scenes, our operations manager will:
- Draw your deck to code and prepare site maps for your municipality’s permitting department (yes, you need a permit but we handle all of it for you).
- Schedule inspections throughout the project to ensure everything is above board.
- Order all your materials so they’re ready to go before we start.
6. Pre-Build Consultation & Site Prep
As your start date gets closer, our production manager (Autumn) will meet with you to:
- Reconfirm your material selections.
- Figure out the best spot for materials and a dumpster during the build.
- Coordinate utility marking so we can place footings safely.
We’ll also send a second invoice for 25% to cover materials before the build begins.
“The attention to detail and craftsmanship of 3rd Gen Deck Builders are evident in every aspect of our new deck. Aaron and his crew exceeded our expectations.” – Dan C. (Menasha Deck Build)
7. Build Time
This is where your vision becomes reality. Our crew works consecutive days until your project is complete, pausing only for extreme weather.
Typical build order:
- Demo the old deck (if applicable)
- Install footings (we use Diamond Pier footings for durability)
- Build the frame
- Install decking
- Add posts and railings
- Finish details (lighting, skirting, etc.)
“I was thoroughly amazed with the attention to detail. There was a bad weather day, they notified me early in the morning that they would not be working that day.” – Randy B (Appleton Deck Build Client)
Average timelines:
- Standard deck: 1–2 weeks
- Complex 3-season room: 4–8 weeks (we handle all subcontractor coordination)
“Kasity & Tyler completed the project within 2 weeks and were very friendly, conscientious, and did an excellent job. They cleaned up the yard before leaving each night.” – Gabrielle R (Porch & Railing Client)
And yes, we clean the job site daily. Your neighbors will thank you.
8. Final Walkthrough
Once everything’s done, Autumn will walk the space with you, answer questions, and make sure you’re 100% happy.
“We loved working with Autumn. She was always quick to respond to our questions and went above and beyond making sure we were satisfied with our finished project. 11/10.” – Nate H. (Sun Prairie Deck Build)
We’ll invoice the final 50% of your project, and if you’re willing, we’d love a review to help other homeowners find the right contractor.
9. Enjoy Your New Space
You can start hosting, relaxing, and soaking in your new deck — and know we’re here if you ever need us again. (We’ve even helped past clients with post-storm repairs and insurance paperwork.)
Deck Building Process FAQs
Anywhere from 1–4 weeks for a deck (depending on size & layout) to 4–8 weeks for a more complex build like a 3-season room. Weather can occasionally delay us, but we keep you updated every step.
That’s fine. We’re happy to chat with you about what’s realistic for what you’re asking, but the sooner we have a ballpark of what you’re willing to spend, the better we can tailor your design and material options to hit your priorities.
Not necessarily. We’ve built plenty of decks on vacation lake homes with clients living in a different state. Typically, we just need access to your yard, which is easy enough. That said, it would be best if we could coordinate your final walkthrough in person.
Yes. While some contractors may be comfortable completing projects without a permit, we like to build by the book for safety & longevity. Not to mention, we’d hate for you to be slapped with completely avoidable fines. But don’t worry… we handle the process for you. More on that here.
We pause for safety in cases of heavy rain, snow, dangerously low temps, or storms, then resume as soon as possible. Your project stays a priority until it’s finished and we keep you in the loop every step of the way.
We have locally-based crews in both Madison / Dane County, WI and the Fox Valley, WI area. If you live in either of those areas, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re looking for custom deck builders in Madison WI or Appleton WI who know how to combine great design, quality craftsmanship, and a crew you’ll actually like having around… let’s talk.
Request your free estimate and see what it’s like working with a team that actually does what they say they’ll do.
