(Alternatively Titled: Why You Shouldn’t Spend Your Summer Swearing at a Tape Measure)
Thinking about building your own deck? Respect. But before you commit to a summer of sore knees, permit headaches, and YouTube rabbit holes, here’s what you should know about the real benefits of hiring a professional deck builder… especially if you’re in the Appleton or Madison, WI areas. Let’s break it down.
1. Your Summer Saturdays? Still Yours.
Decks are awesome. Spending every nice weekend working on one? Not so much. Hiring a pro means you get to enjoy Wisconsin’s very limited window of beautiful weather… not spend it wrestling lumber in your backyard.
2. Built Right, Built Fast
You’re great at what you do. We’re great at what we do. Our crews build decks every day. We’ve seen it all, fixed it all, and probably already built something similar to what you’re imagining. That means your deck gets done faster and better without “learning curve” mistakes or project delays. Honestly, we could probably end the DIY vs professional deck debate right here, but we won’t…
3. Better Warranty Coverage
If you DIY and something fails, you eat the cost. When we build it, our labor (and mistakes) are covered. And because we’re a TimberTech Platinum Pro contractor, you get bonus warranty coverage directly from TimberTech (3 to 5 extra years on top of what you’d get working with a different Madison deck contractor). That’s peace of mind you can’t find at Home Depot.
4. Better Materials Than What’s in the Big Box
Some materials look good on a shelf… until they’re out in the sun, soaked in rain, and carrying the weight of your grill and patio furniture. We’ve got access to pro-grade options that most homeowners can’t get: stronger framing lumber, higher-quality decking, and even smarter foundation options like Diamond Piers that save time and resist heave better. (While you can technically find Diamond Piers at Home Depot, they require a special, expensive bit to install.)
5. Permits and Inspections? Handled.
Permits can be a headache. Zoning, inspections, site maps… it’s a lot. We do this every day, so we know exactly how to navigate it. We’ve got the system down to a science. If you’re DIY-ing, you’re looking at a few hours (or days) of Googling, phone calls, and possible rework if something doesn’t pass.
6. Solid Design That Works for You
You can find cool ideas on Pinterest (or Instagram). You can even draw up a plan. But making sure it works with your home’s layout, elevation, and budget? That’s where we shine. We’ll help you design something that’s as functional as it is beautiful (and doesn’t end up looking like a puzzle someone gave up on).
7. Less Risk, Fewer Regrets
Decks are expensive. Time is expensive. Your back? Also expensive. One wrong cut or incorrect measurement can mean starting over or compromising on the finished product. Hiring a pro isn’t just about the end result. It’s about avoiding expensive mistakes that turn your DIY dream into a DIY disaster.
8. Cleaner, Safer Job Site
We’re big on safety and cleanliness. Our crews keep job sites tidy, minimize disruption to your yard, and clean up like pros when we’re done. No beer cans left behind by “helping” friends in the bushes. No surprise nails in the grass. And no rushed trips to the emergency room.
9. Built to Code (or Better)
We don’t just meet code… we often exceed it. Our decks are overbuilt on purpose. Why? Because it’s your house and we want your deck to last as long as the 25-50 year boards you’re putting on it. DIY builds sometimes cut corners unknowingly, which can lead to safety or resale issues down the line. One of the biggest professional deck builder benefits you get by working with us is tapping into our deep and familiar understanding of the Wisconsin building code.
DIY vs Professional Deck Build FAQs
Costs vary based on size, materials, and features (like stairs, lighting, or a screen porch), but most professionally built decks in the Madison area fall between $15k–$60k+. We’re always happy to give you a free custom quote!
Yes, technically, but only if you already own the right tools, have construction experience, and value your time at $0/hour. Most homeowners find the cost savings disappear quickly once they account for tool rentals, wasted materials, and time lost… Not to mention the risk of having to redo something.
Usually not. Many of the best-performing materials we use (like high-end TimberTech) aren’t stocked at big box stores. As a contractor, we have access to supplier-only products and volume pricing the average homeowner can’t get.
Permits. Structural issues. Under-building. Picking the wrong fasteners. Misreading slope. Okay, that’s more than one—but they’re all common. One small mistake can lead to long-term water issues, movement, or even safety concerns.
Totally valid. Some folks want to demo the old deck to save costs or feel involved. We’re happy to talk about a hybrid approach, but typically like full control of the build process. It’s the only way to truly back our work.
Most of our decks take 1–3 weeks to complete once we’re onsite, depending on complexity and weather. Compare that to most DIY projects—which often stretch across months or stall out halfway through summer.
Ready to Kick Back Instead of Stress Out?
Hiring a professional deck contractor isn’t just about saving time… it’s about getting the job done right the first time, with the kind of craftsmanship, support, and materials that last.
If you’re in the Appleton or Madison area and want a deck that looks incredible and holds up for decades, let’s talk. Estimates are free. What do you have to lose?
🔎 Check out our gallery to see our work.
🛠️ Learn more about our deck building services.
💬 Or contact us now for a no-pressure quote.
