After more than 20 years of building decks, one thing has become very clear: not every deck builder is created equal. Deck building may look straightforward on the surface, but the difference between a deck that lasts decades and one that causes problems within a few years comes down to experience, attention to detail, and doing things the right way even when shortcuts are tempting.
Here are some of the most important lessons we’ve learned over two decades of building decks for homeowners in Des Moines and central Iowa.
Not Everyone Who Builds Decks Should Be
One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that not everybody who claims they can build a deck actually should. Early on, like many companies, we used subcontractors. Over time we saw firsthand how inconsistent craftsmanship, lack of accountability, and missed details could impact the final product.
That’s why we made the decision more than 10 years ago to stop using subcontractors altogether for our decking division. By keeping deck construction in-house, we control quality, consistency, and craftsmanship from start to finish. When our name is on a project, we want to know exactly how it was built and who built it.
Redecking/Repairing Isn’t Always the Simple Solution
Redecking or repairing a deck can be appealing because it appears to save time and money, but it can also introduce serious long-term issues if the existing structure isn’t in excellent condition.
Over the years, we’ve seen redecking projects fail because:
- Old framing wasn’t structurally sound
- Fasteners loosened due to deteriorating joists
- Heavier modern decking materials placed additional stress on footings that were never designed to handle the load
In some cases, adding new decking to an aging frame can accelerate failure rather than extend the life of the deck. That’s why we always evaluate the entire structure before recommending redecking. Most times rebuilding is the safer and more cost-effective option in the long run.
Small Details Make a Big Difference: Joist Flashing Tape
One of the best investments a homeowner can make during deck construction is joist flashing tape. It’s a relatively small upgrade, but its impact on longevity is significant.
Joist tape protects the top of the framing from moisture penetration, which is one of the leading causes of rot and premature deck failure. Over 20 years, we’ve seen how unprotected framing breaks down far faster than protected wood. This is one of those details you don’t see when the deck is finished, but you’ll absolutely feel the difference years down the road.
Railing Choices Matter More Than Most People Realize
From a maintenance and durability standpoint, powder-coated aluminum deck railings consistently outperform PVC and composite railing systems. While PVC and composite railings can look appealing initially, they often show wear sooner, require more upkeep, and don’t always age gracefully.
Powder-coated aluminum offers:
- Long-term durability
- Minimal maintenance
- Resistance to fading, warping, and cracking
It’s one of those choices that pays dividends year after year, especially for homeowners who want to spend time enjoying their deck rather than maintaining it.
Choosing the Right Contractor Is Critical
If there’s one area where homeowners need to be especially cautious, it’s when hiring a deck contractor. Over the years, we’ve heard countless stories from homeowners dealing with:
- Projects that were never finished or were rushed
- Red-flagged or unpermitted work
- Poor workmanship hidden beneath surface-level finishes
- Surprise invoices to fix mistakes the contractor made
A deck is a major investment, and the cheapest bid often becomes the most expensive mistake. Experience, transparency, proper permitting, and accountability matter far more than cutting corners. Many factors influence the cost of deck replacement.
Our Material Recommendation Has Evolved for a Reason
Decking materials have changed significantly over the years, and so have our recommendations. Based on long-term performance, we recommend capped composite or PVC decking over traditional composite. We offer both TimberTech and FiberOn products.
Uncapped composite products have shown issues with:
- Fading over time
- Excessive heat retention
- Surface wear
Capped composite and PVC decking options perform better in these areas, offering improved durability, color stability, and comfort underfoot. For the investment, they simply provide better long-term value.
The Bottom Line
Twenty years of building decks has taught us that lasting results come from experience, honesty, and doing things right the first time. From proper structural evaluation to material selection and small but critical details, every decision impacts how a deck performs over time.
At Buresh Home Solutions, we build decks the way we’d want them built on our own homes: thoughtfully, responsibly, and built to last – including a Full Transferrable Lifetime Workmanship Warranty.