Many homeowners spend a lot more time than they'd like to admit picking out deck colors, just to be asked in the first meeting with a builder: "What color do you want your fascia?" They didn't prep for that.

There are more elements to deck design than the right color for the composite, wood, or PVC you choose. And the small choices make a big difference when looking at a finished deck.

That's why it is critical that you make all the decisions before you begin, so you aren't caught with a product you don't love.

The Decking Is Only Part of the Look

Here's a real example. On a recent project, the homeowners were quick to select the TimberTech Reserve Dark Roast, a rich brown color with dark striations running through the reclaimed wood texture. Fancy sounding—even better to look at.

That decking was only the FIRST decision. We had three more to make.

Post wraps. White PVC was their decision. Against a dark brown deck, this white gives you a crisp, custom look.

Fascia. This is the trim that covers the outside edge of the deck frame. Many people just assume that you must go with the same color you chose for your deck boards. That ISN'T always the case. White fascia would tie in with the white posts. Dark Roast fascia would make the deck look like one solid piece. Both work. It comes down to the style of the home.

Stair risers. Matching the risers to the Dark Roast decking keeps the stairs looking unified, even with white trim elsewhere.

That's why we meet on site to confirm every selection before a deposit is collected. It gives you time to see samples against your house, talk it over with your family, and decide with confidence.

Coordinate With Other Projects in Your Yard

This project had more going on than just a deck build. The homeowner tore down the old deck by himself so a landscaping crew could come in and start a new paver patio. That meant that our helical piers needed to go in BEFORE the patio, with the deck being built AFTER the pavers were installed. Not a huge biggie, but something that requires logistics.

If you have a patio, landscaping, or other work planned, it is important to bring this up in the beginning stages of design. The order of teh work matters, and the smoother the handoff, the quicker the job can get done.  We walk through a real example in planning a patio under your deck.

What Happens After You Decide

Once your selections are final and your deposit is in, the next step is one most homeowners never see. Cole, as the salesperson, sits down with our project manager for a sales-to-operations meeting.

In that meeting we go over:

• Every material and color you selected
• The full scope of work
• Any promises Cole made to you during the sales process

That last one matters. If you asked for something specific, the person running your build needs to know about it. Nothing should get lost between the handshake and the first day of work.

From there, we order materials, pull the permit, and put your project on the schedule.

Get Help Making the Choices

Picking colors shouldn't feel like a test. We bring samples, give honest opinions, and help you see how each piece fits together.

Call Cole at (651) 661-4407 or request a consultation.

Still choosing between materials? Read PVC vs composite decking.