Decks designed around your home
Many homes in Southern Maryland have walk-out basements or a rear door well above grade, which makes a deck the natural way to reach the yard. We build everything from simple ground-level platforms to second-story decks with full staircases, like the white-railed deck shown on this page. We plan the size, height, stair location and railing style so the deck fits the house and the way you entertain.
Footings, framing and ledger connections are where a deck's safety lives. We set footings below the frost line, use code-approved hardware and flashing at the house, and build the framing so the finished surface stays flat and solid underfoot.
Composite vs. wood decking
Composite decking is made from wood fiber and plastic, or fully synthetic materials, with a protective shell. It does not need staining or sealing, resists rot and splintering, and comes with long manufacturer warranties. It costs more up front but saves years of maintenance, which is why many homeowners in Owings and Dunkirk choose composite.
Pressure-treated wood costs less initially and can look great, but it needs regular cleaning and sealing to prevent graying, cracking and splintering. Either way, the substructure is typically pressure-treated lumber, and we build it to the same standard.
Stairs, railings and the space below
Stairs and landings are where a deck meets the yard. We build wide composite steps, landings that tie into paver patios, and vinyl or aluminum railing systems that stay bright with minimal upkeep. For elevated decks, the area underneath can be finished with a paver patio to create shaded space below.
Materials we use
- Composite decking
- Pressure-treated lumber framing and decking
- Vinyl and aluminum railing systems
- Concrete footings below frost depth
- Code-approved hangers, fasteners and flashing
Benefits
Solid structure
Footings below frost depth, proper flashing and code-approved connectors.
Low-maintenance options
Composite decking and vinyl railings skip the annual staining routine.
More living space
Extend your home outdoors with room for dining, grilling and relaxing.
One contractor
We build the deck, stairs and the paver patio below, so everything fits together.
Our decks process
- 1
Free consultation
We measure, discuss size, height, stair location and decking and railing options.
- 2
Plan, quote & permit
You get a written quote; decks generally require a county building permit, which we help coordinate.
- 3
Footings & framing
Footings are dug and inspected, then the frame, ledger and joists are built.
- 4
Decking, rails & stairs
Boards, railings and stairs are installed, followed by final inspection and cleanup.
Related projects
Decks FAQ
How long does a deck last?
A well-built pressure-treated wood deck that is cleaned and sealed regularly commonly lasts 15 to 20 years or more. Composite decking typically lasts longer and carries manufacturer warranties that are often 25 years or more. The structure underneath matters as much as the boards.
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Calvert County?
In most cases, yes. Decks are structural and generally require a building permit and inspections. Requirements can vary for very low, freestanding decks. We help you understand and coordinate what your project needs.
Is composite decking worth the extra cost?
For many homeowners, yes. Composite costs more at installation but does not need staining or sealing and resists rot and splinters, so it saves time and maintenance costs over the life of the deck.
Can you replace just the deck boards?
If the framing is sound, we can often replace worn wood boards with new wood or composite and update the railings. We inspect the structure first so you are not putting new boards on a failing frame.
How long does it take to build a deck?
Many decks are built in one to two weeks of construction time once permits are approved. Size, height, stairs and inspection scheduling all affect the timeline.