Deck, Patio or Pergola: Which Fits Your Yard?
Choose a deck when
Your back door sits well above grade, the yard slopes away from the house, or you want a raised view of the lawn.
Choose a patio when
The yard is fairly level, you want a surface that handles fire pits and heavy furniture, or you prefer masonry that needs little upkeep.
Add a pergola when
Your deck or patio gets harsh afternoon sun and you want shade, structure, or a place to hang lights and fans.
Materials We Build With
- Composite and PVC decking for low maintenance and consistent color
- Pressure-treated pine framing rated for ground contact where needed
- Cedar or powder-coated aluminum for pergolas
- Concrete pavers, stamped concrete or natural stone for patios
Every material has trade-offs in cost, heat underfoot and upkeep; we review samples with you before you decide.
Making It Yours
Customization is where a backyard starts to feel like part of the house. Options include picture-frame borders on decking, built-in benches and planters, cable or aluminum railings for clearer views, step lighting, louvered pergola roofs and wiring for ceiling fans. A deck can step down to a patio with a fire pit, or a pergola can shelter an outdoor dining table. See more possibilities on our Madison outdoor living solutions page and the statewide decks and outdoor living guide.
Why Homeowners Add Outdoor Space
A well-built deck or patio adds usable living area for a fraction of the cost of an interior addition, gives kids and pets room to play and makes hosting easier. A pergola can make a sun-baked patio usable on summer afternoons. Many Madison homeowners also find that a finished backyard makes the house more appealing if they decide to sell.
Common Questions
How long does it take to build a deck, patio or pergola?
Pergolas often take a few days. Most decks and patios take one to two weeks of construction, with design, permitting and material ordering happening beforehand.
What materials do you use for decks and pergolas?
We build decks with composite, PVC, cedar or pressure-treated wood over properly rated framing, and pergolas in cedar, treated wood or aluminum depending on the look and maintenance you prefer.
How much does a custom deck or pergola cost in Madison?
Pricing depends on size, height, materials and features. We give a free itemized estimate so you can compare options.
Can I customize the design?
Yes. Size, shape, railings, lighting, built-ins and finishes are all tailored to your home and how you use the space.