Pick the Best Builder: Get a Deck That Lasts Through Our Climate

If you’re thinking about adding a new deck or repairing your current one, you’re not alone. Outdoor living spaces are more popular than ever in Huntsville, Madison, and Owens Cross Roads—and for good reason. A well-built deck not only adds value to your home but also gives you the perfect spot to soak in those Alabama sunsets, entertain friends, or enjoy quiet mornings with coffee in hand.

But here’s the deal: not all decks—or deck contractors—are created equal.

In a climate like ours, where the summer sun is blazing hot, humidity is sky-high, and the occasional winter freeze sneaks in, you need a contractor who understands how to build a deck that can handle it all. So how do you find the right pro for the job?

Let’s break it down. Here’s what to look for when hiring a deck contractor or deck repair expert in Huntsville, AL.

1. Local Expertise Matters—Big Time

You don’t want just any deck contractor. You want one who knows Huntsville’s climate, soil conditions, and building codes.

Alabama’s weather swings between hot and humid summers to occasional winter freezes. That means materials expand, contract, warp, and rot if they’re not installed and maintained properly. A contractor with local experience knows how to:

• Choose weather-resistant materials that won’t buckle in the heat
• Seal and finish decks for year-round protection
• Properly anchor and support decks on Alabama clay or sloped yards
• Follow local permitting and code requirements for Madison County and the City of Huntsville

Tip: Ask potential contractors how long they’ve been working in the area and what kind of projects they’ve completed locally. A quick drive-by of their work is even better.

2. Check Licensing, Insurance, and Credentials

This one’s a no-brainer, but it’s often overlooked. Alabama doesn’t require every handyman to be licensed, but for bigger structural work like decks, you want someone properly credentialed.

Look for:

• A business license
• General liability insurance (this protects YOU if something goes wrong)
• Worker’s comp insurance (especially if they have a crew)

Also ask if they’re affiliated with organizations like the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) or Better Business Bureau (BBB). Those can be signs of a contractor who takes their craft seriously.

3. Ask About Materials—and Know What Works Best Here

Let’s talk wood, composite, and everything in between. The material your deck is built from will make or break its long-term durability—especially here in northern Alabama.

Here’s a quick rundown:

Pressure-Treated Pine

• Budget-friendly
• Needs regular sealing/staining
• Susceptible to warping, splitting, and weather damage if neglected
• OK for budget decks, but not ideal long-term in our humid climate unless maintained carefully

Cedar or Redwood

• More expensive, naturally resistant to rot and insects
• Requires upkeep but ages beautifully
• Great for homeowners who want real wood with a more premium look

Composite Decking (like Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon)

• Made from recycled materials and polymers
• Resists rot, splinters, and warping
• Minimal maintenance (no staining or sealing)
• Perfect for Alabama’s wet, hot summers—but can get hot to the touch

PVC Decking

• 100% synthetic, lightweight, and ultra-resistant to moisture
• More expensive but highly durable
• A smart pick for covered decks or poolside installs

A great contractor will walk you through the pros and cons of each based on how you want to use the space, your budget, and how much maintenance you’re willing to take on.

4. Review Their Past Projects

Don’t just take their word for it—see their work! Reputable deck builders will have:

• A portfolio of past projects
• References you can call
• Testimonials from local homeowners
• Possibly even real-life decks you can visit

This is also your chance to ask: do they only build standard decks, or can they do custom shapes, built-in benches, multi-levels, or screen enclosures? The more versatile they are, the more they can bring your dream deck to life.

5. Understand Their Process—Start to Finish

Before you sign anything, ask them to walk you through the entire process, including:

• Site evaluation
• Design and layout
• Permitting (they should handle this!)
• Timeline
• Payment schedule
• Final walkthrough and warranty

Good contractors won’t hesitate to explain every step. Beware of anyone who dodges your questions or gives vague answers about pricing or scheduling.

6. Evaluate Communication and Professionalism

You’re going to be dealing with this contractor and their crew for several days—or weeks—depending on the size of the project. Communication matters.

Are they responsive to your messages? Do they show up on time for the estimate? Do they seem honest and down to earth?

At Warner’s Remodeling, we often hear from homeowners who were ghosted by their last contractor, or who had work done so poorly it had to be redone just a year later. Choose someone who makes you feel heard, respected, and valued from day one.

7. Ask About Warranties and Maintenance

Every reputable deck contractor should offer a workmanship warranty. This usually ranges from 1 to 5 years depending on the company. Many composite materials also come with 25- to 50-year manufacturer warranties.

Make sure you get details in writing, and ask about:

• What’s covered under the warranty
• How to maintain the deck after it’s built
• Annual inspection or resealing options (especially for wood decks)

8. Deck Design Options That Work in Alabama

Beyond the basics, let’s talk about design.

Here in North Alabama, you’ll want a deck that works with the climate, not against it. Look for a contractor who can incorporate features like:

• Shade options like pergolas, roof extensions, or retractable canopies
• Fans or lighting to keep things cool and usable after sunset
• Drainage solutions for decks near pools or on sloped lots
• Composite railings that don’t splinter or rot
• Screened-in zones to beat the bugs in the summer

At Warner’s, we specialize in custom designs that are built to thrive in the South—beautiful to look at, tough as nails underneath.

9. Beware of the Low Bid Trap

It’s tempting to go with the cheapest quote, especially when you’ve got multiple home improvement projects going on. But a low bid can sometimes mean:

• Substandard materials
• Rushed or sloppy labor
• No insurance or license
• No warranty or follow-up

Instead, look for value—a fair, competitive price with quality workmanship, good communication, and long-term support.

A well-built deck will last 15–25 years. One thrown together to save a few hundred bucks? You’ll be calling someone like us to fix it in a year or two.

10. Hire a Contractor Who Will Be Around Tomorrow

Lastly, you want to work with someone who’s not just a “fly-by-night” operation. Ask:

• How long have they been in business?
• Are they based in the Huntsville area?
• Do they offer other services like repairs or remodeling?

A solid local contractor will stand behind their work—and be there for any future projects, repairs, or upgrades.

Ready to Build Your Dream Deck?

If you’re in Huntsville, Madison, or Owens Cross Roads, Warner’s Remodeling is your go-to for deck repair, deck building, and full outdoor transformations. Whether you want a basic platform to grill on or a full backyard entertainment zone with shade, lighting, and composite boards, we’ve got the experience and the down-to-earth crew to make it happen.

Let’s turn your backyard into a place you love to hang out in—without breaking the bank.