Outdoor Space That Actually Gets Used

Custom deck design and construction services in Athens, Georgia.

When your backyard in Athens is underused because there is nowhere comfortable to sit outside, a well-built deck changes how you spend time at home. Don Kittle Construction designs and builds custom wood and composite decks that extend your living area and give you a solid, level surface for furniture, grills, and gatherings.

Deck construction begins with planning the layout and determining how the structure will attach to your home. Footings are dug below the frost line and poured to support the posts. Beams and joists are installed according to code, and the decking material is fastened with hidden clips or corrosion-resistant screws. Railing systems are built to meet height and spacing requirements, and stairs are framed to match the deck height and grade.

Get in touch with Don Kittle Construction in Athens to schedule an on-site consultation and talk through deck size, material options, and placement.

What Goes Into Building It Right

Your deck project in Athens starts with layout and footing placement, followed by setting the posts and attaching the ledger board to your home with through-bolts and flashing. Pressure-treated framing is cut and assembled, and joist hangers are used to keep everything aligned and secure. Composite or treated decking boards are installed with consistent spacing to allow for drainage and expansion.

Once the deck is finished, you will notice that the surface is level, the boards do not flex or bounce when you walk across them, and water drains between the gaps without pooling. The railing feels solid when you lean on it, and the stairs are even and safe to use. The structure stays stable in wind and does not shift or creak under weight.

Don Kittle Construction uses weather-resistant fasteners and properly flashes all connection points to prevent water from entering the home. Composite decking resists fading and splintering, while treated wood is sealed to handle Georgia humidity and seasonal rain.

What people planning a deck usually ask

Before starting a deck project, most homeowners want to know what materials last longest, how the structure will attach to the house, and what maintenance will look like over time.

What is the difference between wood and composite decking?
Composite decking resists moisture, fading, and splintering without needing stain or sealant. Treated wood costs less upfront but requires periodic sealing to prevent weathering and rot.
How long does deck construction take?
Most residential decks in Athens are completed in one to two weeks, depending on size and design complexity. Multi-level decks or custom railing designs can extend the timeline.
How is the deck attached to my house?
A ledger board is bolted through the siding into the rim joist of your home, and flashing is installed above it to direct water away from the connection. This keeps the deck stable and prevents moisture from entering the wall.
Do I need a permit for a deck?

Most decks require a building permit in Athens, especially if they are attached to the home or elevated more than 30 inches. Don Kittle Construction can coordinate the permit process and ensure the structure meets local codes.

Can I add features like built-in seating or lighting?
Yes. Built-in benches, planters, and post-cap lighting can be integrated during construction. Wiring for low-voltage lights is easier to install before the decking goes down.

If you are ready to add outdoor living space to your Athens home, Don Kittle Construction can meet on-site to review your yard layout, discuss material choices, and walk through what size and style of deck will work best for how you use your property. Reach out to start planning your project.