Designing a deck should be simple and stress-free. At Cascade Fence and Deck, we work closely with you to make sure your design is exactly what you want before construction begins. Whether you have a clear vision or need help exploring options, our step-by-step process ensures your deck is well-planned and fits your home perfectly.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation – Sharing Your Vision
The first and most important step in our deck design process is a conversation. “We start by simply talking about your goals—how you want to use your deck, what kind of look you’re going for, and any ideas you’ve been thinking about,” explains Mike, one of our experienced designers. “This conversation allows us to get a clear picture of what matters most to you.”
During this phase, we encourage homeowners to share inspiration, whether it’s from Pinterest, a neighbor’s deck, or just a general feeling they want their outdoor space to create.
Step 2: Bringing Your Ideas to Life with Digital Visualization
Once we understand your vision, we create digital renderings using advanced software. “We actually have a couple of different ways to visualize your deck,” says Mike. “First, we use landscape software to digitally recreate your home and yard, allowing us to place the deck in your space.”
After that, we take it a step further. “From there, we can have a professional illustrator come in and create a realistic picture of your project. That way, there’s no guesswork. You don’t have to imagine how it’ll look—you can actually see it,” he explains.
This visualization process eliminates uncertainty and allows homeowners to tweak their designs before anything is built. “A lot of times, once people see their deck in a rendering, new ideas start to flow—‘What if we did this? How about that?’ It’s an exciting and creative part of the process.”
Step 3: Fine-Tuning the Details
After the initial design is complete, we enter the revision phase. “Step two is just the beginning,” Mike says. “From there, we go through as many revisions as needed until the design is perfect.”
At this stage, homeowners can experiment with different materials, layouts, and features like multiple levels, built-in seating, or integrated lighting. “One of the things I always tell people is—don’t hold back,” Mike adds. “If you wake up in the middle of the night thinking, ‘What if we did this?’—send it over! It’s better to make changes now than to wish you had after construction begins.”
Step 4: Collaboration with the Whole Team
Once the design is finalized, we bring in additional team members, including the project manager and foreman, to ensure a smooth transition from concept to reality. “This is where we take the design and make sure it’s feasible and optimized for construction,” Mike says. “It’s a collaborative effort where every detail is checked, and sometimes, new ideas emerge that improve the final product.”
Our team also considers practical elements like permitting, home integration, and terrain challenges. “If you have a slope in your yard or are working with a landscaper, we make sure everything flows together,” he explains. “It’s not just about building a deck—it’s about creating a space that enhances your home and lifestyle.”
Step 5: Stress-Free Construction and Final Walkthrough
With a detailed and well-planned design in place, the construction process is straightforward. Homeowners can feel confident that what they saw in the renderings is exactly what they will get. “There’s nothing worse than being handed a piece of graph paper with a rough sketch and hoping it turns out right,” Mike points out. “That’s why we put so much effort into the design phase—to remove any surprises and make sure everything is exactly what you envisioned.”
After construction, we conduct a final walkthrough to ensure everything meets expectations. From there, homeowners can start enjoying their brand-new deck immediately.
Why Our Design Process Stands Out
- Eliminates Guesswork – You see exactly what your deck will look like before construction.
- Encourages Creativity – The visualization process allows for easy changes and new ideas.
- Ensures a Perfect Fit – Every design is tailored to match your home’s architecture and landscape.
- Reduces Stress – Early planning and collaboration help avoid last-minute surprises.
By investing time into planning and visualization, we ensure that your new deck isn’t just functional—it’s an extension of your home, built exactly the way you imagined.