Why Douglas County Homeowners Keep Rethinking Their Deck Layouts (And How to Avoid Costly Regrets)

 

1. Introduction

If you’ve spent any time in Douglas County, you know how much we love our outdoor living spaces. Backyard barbecues, summer evenings under string lights, and morning coffee on the deck are practically a way of life here. But lately, we’ve noticed a trend: more homeowners are realizing their decks don’t quite work the way they imagined. Maybe the layout feels awkward, the materials aren’t holding up, or the space just doesn’t flow with their lifestyle.

This post was inspired by a conversation we had with a local family in Castle Pines last month. They’d installed a deck a few years ago but found it was too small for gatherings, didn’t handle our weather shifts well, and lacked shade where they needed it most. Sound familiar? We’ve seen this a lot lately—especially as more folks prioritize outdoor living but underestimate the planning that goes into a truly functional deck.

Here’s what we’re seeing, what we’ve learned, and how to avoid the most common pitfalls in our area.

2. What We’re Seeing Lately

Douglas County’s climate—dry summers, heavy snow loads in winter, and the occasional hailstorm—means decks take a beating. Many homeowners start with a basic design, only to realize later that they needed more durable materials, better drainage, or a layout that accounts for wind patterns (anyone else tired of chasing patio cushions down the block?).

We’ve also noticed a shift in how people use their decks. With more folks working from home, outdoor spaces have become extensions of living areas—not just for grilling, but for dining, relaxing, and even remote work. That means thinking harder about shade solutions, electrical outlets for lighting or devices, and traffic flow.

3. What a Deck Installation Actually Does (Beyond Just Building)

A lot of DIY or rushed deck projects focus on the structure but miss the function. For example:

• Slope and drainage: Even a slight slope can send rainwater pooling toward your house if not planned right.

• Material longevity: Pressure-treated pine might save upfront costs, but in our climate, composite or hardwood often pays off long-term.

• Sun vs. shade: That west-facing deck might be brutal in summer afternoons without a pergola or awning.

One homeowner in Parker thought they’d save money by building their own deck, only to spend more fixing uneven footings and replacing warped boards after two winters.

4. Why Hire a Pro?

Beyond avoiding costly mistakes, pros bring:

• Knowledge of local codes: Douglas County has specific rules for railings, stair widths, and load-bearing requirements.

• Weather-tested materials: We know which woods resist cracking in our dry air and which composites handle hail without denting.

• Smart design: Like extending a deck’s overhang to protect your home’s siding from runoff.

Peace of mind matters too—nobody wants to worry about their deck collapsing under a foot of snow.

5. Why Hunt Home Remodeling Focuses on This

We’ve been building decks here for years, and our approach has evolved with the challenges we’ve seen. For example, we now recommend hidden fasteners for composite decks (no rusty screws to replace) and always check soil conditions before setting footings—especially in areas like Highlands Ranch with tricky clay soils.

6. Douglas County Considerations That Matter

• Hail resistance: Opt for thicker composite boards or metal railings in storm-prone areas.

• Wind: Open designs can become wind tunnels; strategic lattice or glass panels help.

• Permitting: Some HOAs require design approval, and unpermitted decks can cause headaches at resale.

7. Page Spotlight – Our Deck Installation Guide

We put together a Douglas County-specific deck guide after realizing how many questions homeowners had. It covers:

• Material comparisons for our climate

• Permit checklists

• Design ideas that maximize space

One Castle Rock couple told us it helped them avoid overbuilding for their needs.

8. What We Tell Homeowners to Keep in Mind

• Start with how you’ll use it (dining? kids’ play area? hot tub?).

• Budget for extras (lighting, stairs, railings—they add up).

• Think long-term (will this still work in 10 years?).

9. Conclusion

A great deck should feel like a natural extension of your home—not a regret. If you’re planning one, take time to think through the details (or ask us for a second opinion). After all, in Douglas County, we deserve outdoor spaces that hold up to our lifestyle—and our weather.

#DeckDesign #DouglasCountyHomes #OutdoorLiving #HomeImprovement #LocalTips

Composite vs. Wood Decks: The Bennington Homeowner's Real-World Guide

When we decided to replace our 15-year-old pressure-treated wood deck, I assumed we'd just go with wood again. That was before I spent an entire summer staining, sealing, and sanding splinters out of little hands. A neighbor mentioned composite decking, but was it really better? I turned to Hunt Home Remodeling's Deck Installation Guide and discovered some surprising truths about both options.

The Great Decking Debate

Here's what I learned from Hunt's experts about today's decking landscape:

Wood Deck Reality Check

The Good:

• Lower upfront cost (about $15-$25/sq ft installed)

• Traditional look many homeowners love

• Easier to repair individual boards

The Not-So-Good:

• Requires annual maintenance (average $300-$500/year)

• Lifespan of 10-15 years in Nebraska's climate

• Splintering and warping over time

• Susceptible to insect damage

Composite Deck Deep Dive

Why It's Gained Popularity:

• 50-year warranties on premium products

• No staining or sealing ever

• Resistant to fading and scratches

• Eco-friendly options using recycled materials

What You Should Know:

• Higher initial cost ($25-$45/sq ft)

• Can get hotter than wood in direct sun

• Not all composites are created equal

Bennington-Specific Considerations

Hunt's local experience revealed key factors for our area:

1. Temperature Swings: Composite handles freeze-thaw cycles better

2. Humidity: Wood expands/contracts more dramatically

3. Maintenance: Composite saves about 20 hours/year of upkeep

4. HOA Rules: Some neighborhoods have material restrictions

The Hidden Cost Calculator

When I compared 20-year costs:

• Wood: $8,000 (installation) + $7,000 (maintenance) = $15,000

• Composite: $14,000 (installation) + $500 (cleaning) = $14,500

Why We Chose Composite

After seeing Hunt's Trex samples and talking to neighbors:

• Time Savings: No more weekend sealing projects

• Safety: No splinters for bare feet

• Consistency: Uniform color that won't weather unevenly

• Warranty: 25-year coverage on fading/staining

Pro Tip from Hunt

"Invest in quality hidden fasteners - they prevent moisture buildup under composite boards and give a cleaner look."

Final Decision

We went with Hunt's recommendation of Trex Transcend in Spiced Rum - it looks like real wood but with none of the hassle. Six months in, we've hosted two birthday parties, countless cookouts, and haven't touched a sander once.

Tags: #DeckMaterials #BenningtonLiving #LowMaintenance #OutdoorSpaces #HomeInvestment

Custom Deck Ideas for Small Backyards

When we bought our Bennington home, I fell in love with everything except one thing - our postage stamp-sized backyard. "We'll never be able to have a real deck," I sighed to my husband as we stared at the cramped space. But then I discovered Hunt Home Remodeling's Custom Deck Builds page and realized small spaces actually offer some amazing deck possibilities!

The Small Space Revolution

Turns out, we're not alone in our tiny yard dilemma. Recent surveys show:

• 42% of urban and suburban homeowners have backyards under 500 sq ft

• Small decks (under 200 sq ft) have increased 28% in popularity since 2020

• Creative designs can make a small deck feel twice its actual size

What Custom Really Means for Small Yards

Hunt's guide opened my eyes to solutions I'd never considered:

• Multi-level designs that create separate "rooms" in tight spaces

• Built-in benches that double as storage

• Narrow wraparound decks that maximize every inch

• Vertical elements like trellises to add dimension without floor space

Why Custom Beats Prefab for Small Spaces

We almost bought a prefab deck kit before realizing:

• Standard sizes rarely fit odd-shaped yards

• Generic designs waste valuable space

• Most aren't optimized for our Nebraska climate

• They often violate local building codes

Hunt's Clever Small Space Solutions

Their portfolio showed genius ideas like:

• Corner decks that tuck perfectly against the house

• Expandable designs that can grow with your needs

• Integrated planters that add greenery without footprint

• Transparent railings that maintain sightlines

Bennington-Specific Tips

The guide highlighted local considerations:

• Setback requirements for small lots

• Wind-resistant designs for our open landscapes

• Material choices that stand up to humidity

• Privacy solutions for close neighbors

Our "Ah-Ha" Moment

The game-changer was seeing Hunt's "Deck + Patio Combo" - a small elevated deck leading to a ground-level stone patio. This gave us:

✓ Defined dining area on the deck

✓ Lounge space on the patio below

✓ Room for our grill and firepit

All in less space than our old apartment balcony!

Final Thoughts

Six months later, our "too small" yard is now our favorite spot. The custom design fits like a glove, and we actually use it more than we would a bigger deck. As Hunt's team told me: "It's not about the square footage - it's about smart design."

Tags: #SmallSpaceSolutions #CustomDecks #BenningtonHomes #OutdoorLiving #DeckDesign

Deck Installation 101: What I Learned From a Local Pro

When we first moved into our Bennington home, I dreamed of summer nights spent grilling on a beautiful new deck. But between Pinterest overwhelm and contractor horror stories from neighbors, I kept putting it off. Was composite worth the extra cost? How long would installation really take? And most importantly - how could I avoid ending up with a deck that looked like a DIY disaster?

That's when I found Hunt Home Remodeling's Deck Installation Guide, and it answered every question I didn't even know to ask. Here's what every Bennington homeowner should know before building a deck.

The Rise of Outdoor Living Spaces

Recent surveys show 63% of homeowners now consider outdoor living areas as important as indoor spaces. In Nebraska, where we cram a year's worth of outdoor time into about 8 good months, this makes perfect sense. What surprised me was learning that:

• Properly built decks can return 75-100% of their cost in home value

• Composite decking (once considered "cheap looking") now comes in stunning wood-like finishes

• New hidden fastener systems eliminate those ugly screw heads we all remember from 90s decks

What Professional Deck Installation Actually Entails

Hunt's guide broke down the process in a way that finally made sense:

1. Site Evaluation - They check soil type, drainage, and sun patterns (something I'd never considered)

2. Material Selection - From weather-resistant Trex to low-maintenance PVC options

3. Structural Engineering - Proper beam spacing and footings for our frost-prone area

4. Custom Design - Not just size/shape, but flow from house to yard

What impressed me most? Their emphasis on "invisible" details like:

• Flashing to prevent water damage to your home

• Proper stair rise/run measurements (a big safety factor)

• Local code compliance (did you know Bennington requires 36" railings?)

Why DIY Deck Building is Riskier Than You Think

I'll admit - I briefly considered the DIY route after watching some YouTube tutorials. Then I learned:

• 1 in 5 DIY decks fail inspection in our area

• Improper footings can lead to frost heave damage in just one winter

• Material waste from mistakes often eliminates any cost savings

A pro like Hunt gets it right the first time with:

• Proper permitting (yes, you need one in Bennington)

• Commercial-grade tools for precision cuts

• Experience navigating tricky installations (like decks on slopes)

What Makes Hunt's Approach Different

Their Millard installation page highlighted three things I loved:

1. Trex Platinum Certification - Meaning they're trained in the latest composite techniques

2. 27 Years of Local Experience - They know exactly how Nebraska weather affects decks

3. Transparent Process - From 3D designs to clean worksite policies

Bennington-Specific Considerations

Hunt's guide taught me location-specific factors like:

• Wind Patterns - Our open spaces mean railings need to be extra secure

• Soil Types - Clay-heavy areas require deeper footings

• HOA Rules - Many Bennington neighborhoods have strict design guidelines

A Surprising Cost Insight

While composite costs more upfront, Hunt's analysis showed:

• 15-25 year lifespan vs wood's 10-15 years

• Zero staining/sealing - Saves $300-$500 annually

• Higher resale value - Buyers love low-maintenance features

Final Thoughts

After reading Hunt's guide and seeing their portfolio, we finally took the plunge. Six weeks later, we've got a deck that's hosted everything from birthday parties to quiet morning coffees - with zero worries about safety or maintenance.

The biggest lesson? A good deck isn't just built - it's engineered for your specific home and lifestyle.

Tags: #DeckInstallation #BenningtonLiving #OutdoorSpaces #HomeImprovement #NebraskaHomes

The Surprising Truth About Deck Repairs (And When to Call a Pro)

Last spring, I noticed a soft spot near my deck stairs. At first, I brushed it off—just a little weathering, right? I poked at the wood with a screwdriver, shrugged, and told myself I’d deal with it "later." Fast-forward to a family barbecue when my uncle stepped on that exact spot, and let’s just say… we almost had a very dramatic exit from the party.

That was my wake-up call. I realized I didn’t just need a quick fix—I needed to understand what was really going on with my deck. That’s when I found Hunt Home Remodeling’s Deck Repair page, and let me tell you, it was eye-opening. Even though they’re based in Millard, their advice was spot-on for us here in Bennington, especially with our wild weather swings.

Understanding the Broader Trend

Turns out, I’m not the only one putting off deck repairs. A recent study found that nearly 60% of homeowners delay fixing deck issues until they become safety hazards. And here’s the scary part: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports thousands of deck collapses every year, many due to rot, loose fasteners, or weak supports.

In Nebraska, our weather makes things even trickier. The freeze-thaw cycle pushes moisture into cracks, and summer humidity speeds up rot. What looks like a minor issue—a wobbly rail, a discolored board—can actually be a sign of serious structural problems.

What Does a Deck Repair Pro Actually Do?

Before reading Hunt’s guide, I assumed deck repair just meant slapping on a new board or tightening a few screws. Nope. A professional deck repair involves:

• Inspecting the entire structure, including hidden beams and footings.

• Identifying rot, insect damage, or rusted hardware that isn’t always visible.

• Matching materials so repairs blend seamlessly (no patchy, mismatched boards).

• Reinforcing weak spots to prevent future issues.

Hunt’s page explained how they even handle composite deck repairs—something I didn’t realize was possible without replacing whole sections.

Why DIY Repairs Often Backfire

I’ll admit, my first instinct was to grab some wood filler and call it a day. But after reading about load-bearing beams and proper flashing techniques, I realized my "quick fix" could have made things worse. Here’s why pros matter:

• Safety: A shaky deck isn’t just annoying—it’s dangerous.

• Longevity: Proper repairs extend your deck’s life by years.

• Cost savings: Small fixes now prevent expensive rebuilds later.

Why Hunt’s Approach Stood Out

Their repair page didn’t just list services—it explained why things fail. For example:

• Frost heave can shift footings, leading to uneven decks.

• Improper drainage causes rot in hidden areas.

• Old-school nails loosen over time; modern screws are a must.

I also loved that they offer free inspections. No pressure, just honest advice—which is rare in home services.

Local Considerations for Bennington

Our soil (hello, clay!) and weather mean decks here need extra TLC. Hunt’s team emphasized:

• Frost-proof footings to prevent winter shifting.

• Proper sealing to fight humidity damage.

• Regular inspections (especially before summer entertaining season).

Real-Life Example: When to Call for Help

Hunt’s page had a great checklist of warning signs:

✅ Soft or spongy boards

✅ Rusted or loose railings

✅ Wobbly posts or stairs

✅ Visible cracks or splintering

If you spot any of these, don’t wait. I learned the hard way that "later" can turn into "emergency."

Final Thoughts

After reading Hunt’s guide, I stopped trying to play handyman and called a pro. The repair was faster and more affordable than I expected—and now my deck is solid enough for dance parties (trust me, we tested it).

Moral of the story? Deck repairs aren’t just cosmetic. They’re about safety, savings, and actually enjoying your outdoor space without fear.

Tags: #DeckRepair #BenningtonHomes #HomeSafety #OutdoorLiving #DIYLessons

How I Finally Planned the Perfect Deck (Thanks to a Local Guide)

Last summer, I stood in my backyard, staring at a sad, splintered deck that had seen better days. The wood was warped from Nebraska’s brutal winters, and the railing wobbled if you leaned on it too hard. I knew it was time for an upgrade, but where to even start? Should I go with wood or composite? Attached or freestanding? And how much would this even cost?

That’s when I stumbled on Hunt Home Remodeling’s guide to Custom Deck Builds in Millard. Even though I’m in Bennington, their advice was spot-on for our area—especially since they’ve been building decks in Eastern Nebraska for nearly 30 years.

Understanding the Broader Trend

Outdoor living spaces are huge right now. A recent survey found that over 70% of homeowners prioritize decks and patios when upgrading their homes. And it makes sense—after years of being cooped up, we all want a place to unwind outside. But with Nebraska’s wild weather swings (freezing winters, humid summers), durability is key.

What Does a Deck Builder Do?

A good deck builder doesn’t just slap down some boards and call it a day. They assess your yard’s slope, sun exposure, and soil type. They help you pick materials that won’t warp or fade (like Trex composite, which Hunt specializes in). And they handle permits—because yes, even in Bennington, you often need one for a new deck.

Why Hire a Pro?

I briefly considered DIY-ing it. Then I remembered my last attempt at building a bookshelf (RIP, crooked shelves). A pro ensures:

• Safety (no wobbly railings or weak supports)

• Longevity (proper sealing, drainage, and materials)

• Resale value (a well-built deck can add up to 10% to your home’s worth)

Why Hunt Home Remodeling Stood Out

Their Millard custom deck page was packed with real-world examples—like multi-level decks with built-in seating and lighting. I loved that they’re Trex Platinum Certified, meaning they’re experts in low-maintenance materials perfect for our climate.

Local Considerations for Bennington

Our soil can be tricky (clay-heavy in spots), and frost heave is a real issue. Hunt’s guide emphasized proper footings—something I wouldn’t have thought about. They also highlighted designs that complement Nebraska’s ranch-style and modern farmhouse homes.

Final Thoughts

After reading their guide, I felt way more confident about my project. Now, my new deck is my favorite spot for morning coffee—no splinters, no wobbles, just solid craftsmanship.

Tags: #DeckBuilding #BenningtonHomes #OutdoorLiving #HomeImprovement #NebraskaWeather