top of page
Lake Deck, Cable Railing, Low Maintenance Decking, Composite Deck

Thinking About a Deck But Not Sure Where to Start?

  • Writer: Scott Klemetson
    Scott Klemetson
  • 2 days ago
  • 4 min read

Why Starting a Deck Project Feels Overwhelming for Many Homeowners


Worried couple reviews deck design plans at a kitchen table, with a laptop, mug, and sunlit patio in the background.

Building a deck is not something most homeowners do very often.


For many people, the process feels overwhelming before it even begins.


There are budgets to think about, materials to compare, layouts to figure out, and a lot of uncertainty around who to trust. Some homeowners worry about being overcharged. Others are afraid of making the wrong decisions or feeling pressured before they are ready.


After 37 years in the industry, we’ve learned that most people are not looking for a sales pitch when they first walk through the door.


They are looking for clarity.


That is why we try to approach things differently.


Since 1989, our goal has never been simply to sell decks. We believe the best projects start by listening first. Understanding how you want to use the space. Learning what matters to your family. Helping guide you through ideas, materials, layouts, and options in a way that feels comfortable and clear.


Most homeowners do not walk into our showroom with a finished plan.


In many cases, they bring:

  • a few Pinterest photos

  • screenshots saved on their phone

  • rough ideas

  • or simply the feeling that they want a better place to spend time outside


Honestly, that is enough to start the conversation.


You Don’t Need to Have Everything Figured Out Before Starting a Deck Project


Born and raised in Gwinner, North Dakota, Scott understands the value of relationships, trust, and listening to what matters most to families. Through our proven process, we work alongside homeowners to help guide ideas into an outdoor space that truly fits the way they live.
Born and raised in Gwinner, North Dakota, Scott understands the value of relationships, trust, and listening to what matters most to families. Through our proven process, we work alongside homeowners to help guide ideas into an outdoor space that truly fits the way they live.

One of the biggest misconceptions homeowners have is thinking they need all the answers before talking with someone.


You don’t.


In fact, most people start with something simple like:

“I know I want a deck… I just don’t know where to start.”


That is completely normal.


Some homeowners come in knowing exactly what color decking they want. Others are still trying to decide:

  • wood vs composite

  • stairs or no stairs

  • privacy or openness

  • pergola or no pergola

  • how large the space should be

  • what realistically fits their budget


The truth is, good projects usually evolve through conversations.

That is part of the process.


Good Deck Design Starts With Listening


Senior Project Manager, Scott Klemetson takes every project personally. Even after years of experience, Scott still hand drafts every deck design because it keeps him closely connected to the project, the homeowner’s vision, and the details that make the space feel right.
Senior Project Manager, Scott Klemetson takes every project personally. Even after years of experience, Scott still hand drafts every deck design because it keeps him closely connected to the project, the homeowner’s vision, and the details that make the space feel right.

Not every family uses outdoor space the same way.


That is why we spend so much time asking questions before talking about products.


Some homeowners care most about:

  • grilling and entertaining

  • shade and comfort

  • privacy from neighbors

  • space for kids

  • accessibility for aging parents

  • reducing maintenance long term


Others simply want a peaceful place to relax after work.

The right deck is personal.


A deck that works perfectly for one family may feel completely wrong for another.

That is why listening matters so much at the beginning.


Our Showroom Exists to Make Deck Planning Easier



One thing homeowners often tell us is how much easier decisions become once they can actually see products in person.


Photos online help.


But physically seeing materials side by side changes everything.


Our showroom is designed to help homeowners:

  • compare Trex colors in natural lighting

  • touch and feel different railing systems

  • understand layout possibilities

  • compare wood vs composite materials

  • see framing and construction details

  • ask questions without pressure


For many people, that removes a huge amount of anxiety from the process.


A Deck Building Process Built Around Clarity, Not Pressure



Over the years, we’ve developed a process that helps homeowners move from uncertainty to confidence step by step.


Not through pressure.


Through conversations, planning, education, and understanding what matters most to each customer.


Sometimes that means helping someone simplify a project.


Sometimes it means helping them understand where investing more upfront creates better long-term value.


And sometimes it simply means giving homeowners enough information to feel comfortable making decisions at their own pace.


We believe trust is built long before construction ever starts.


A Real Example From a Homeowner Conversation


We recently had a couple stop into the showroom who apologized immediately because they “didn’t really know what they wanted yet.”


They had a few screenshots saved on their phone and were nervous about wasting someone’s time.


After spending time walking through layouts, materials, railing options, and discussing how they actually wanted to use the space, the entire conversation changed.


By the end, they were not overwhelmed anymore.

They were excited.


Honestly, that is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. Helping listen, understand and building our customers vision.


Website section titled the proven process with three columns: educate, design, propose, each with white call-to-action buttons.

Key Takeaways


  • Most homeowners do not start with a complete deck plan

  • Feeling overwhelmed at the beginning is completely normal

  • Good deck design starts with listening and understanding lifestyle needs

  • Seeing materials in person removes uncertainty and anxiety

  • The best projects usually evolve through conversations and planning


Final Thought


At the end of the day, we know we are not just building a deck.


We are helping create a space where families gather, slow down, and spend time together.

That starts by making sure homeowners feel comfortable, informed, and understood from the very beginning.


If you’ve been thinking about a deck but aren’t sure where to start, stop into our showroom sometime. Bring photos, ideas, questions, or simply a rough vision of what you want your backyard to become.


We’re always happy to help walk through it with you.

 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page