Breyer Construction specializes in building custom backyard decks. Our experienced team of deck contractors works with you to create the outdoor living space you’ve always dreamed of.
Your outdoor living space can include:
Built-in Benches & Bars: Perfect for relaxing with friends and family, built-in benches save you the need for additional chairs. They work well on low-height decks to preserve the view out into the yard while defining a different space or two. And a bar-height counter integrated into a railing is a great place to set your drink and reduce the need for additional tables!
Covered Decks: With a simple pergola overhead- or a full finished roof – you can have protection from inclement weather and add a personal touch, all while creating additional privacy and the ability to use this area more often.
Deck Accessories: Adding windows or screened walls around a covered deck means you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping pests and insects out. You can add a “real wood” or remote-controlled gas fireplace for staying warm on chilly days and evenings. And you can extend your “outdoor room” with an open sun deck or hardscape patio to enjoy the best of both worlds. Many of our clients find LED lighting, a ceiling fan, and even a TV can help make their new space that much more entertaining!
Built-in Spa or Pool: A hot tub, swim spa, or even a full-sized pool is a great addition to your outdoor living space. Make sure to include a bar/kitchen area as well, so snacks and drinks can be close-at-hand!
Multi-tiered decks descending to a patio: If your home has a downhill slope in the back, we can design a deck with several tiers going down to your yard. There you can add a well-designed patio with many hardscaping and landscaping options. Sometimes the best way to handle a challenging property is to create several smaller spaces creatively tied together rather than one single large space.
Safety is key
No matter what kind of deck you choose, we make sure it’s safe. We are a proud member of the North American and Railing Deck Association (NADRA), a national organization committed to educating the public about deck safety. This year, our owner, Matt Breyer, is president of NADRA, and is proud to help continue its mission. And the entire Breyer staff receives ongoing training to fulfill our commitment to design and build the best and safest desks in the area.
Where to start
Starting a home remodeling project can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help. Usually, the first step is a meeting so that we can understand your needs. Generally we will want to talk about any expectations, budgetary concerns, or past projects/ideas that have caught your eye. If it’s important to you, we want to make sure it’s important to us! Once we have a clear understanding of the size and scope of your project, and have confirmed the materials and options, we will work with you throughout the process to make sure there are no surprises.
If you’re considering decks or other remodeling projects, below is some information that will help educate you about some options. Or, if you just want preliminary information, you can reach out via phone or email. You may also wish to take advantage of the Deck Planning Guide put out by Trex® as you contemplate your deck options.
Deck Options
Most decks in Berks County and Eastern Pennsylvania are made with one of the following materials:
- Pressure treated wood
- Redwood and cedar
- Hardwood (such as IPE, Massaranduba, and Mahogany)
- Composites and vinyl/PVC
The chart below will provide you with a quick overview and comparison of each of these three kinds of decks.
| Pressure Treated | Redwood and Cedar | Hardwood | Composites and PVC | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lowest initial cost | Higher initial cost | Higher initial cost | Higher initial cost |
| Maintenance | Highest maintenance of all decking materials, will likely require replacement boards | High maintenance; requires regular sealing for best performance | Moderate maintenance; requires some staining/sealing to retain finish | Lowest maintenance; long lasting color and texture, especially PVC and capped composites |
| Performance | Splinters, cracks, splits, warps, stains, and scratches easily | Subject to some cracking and splintering, resists rotting and insects, does stain and scratch easily | Few splinters, highly resistant to deterioration, does not scratch or stain easily | Overcomes performance issues of wood; composites stain, scratch, and fade, but PVC and capped composites are more resilient |
| Longevity | 10-15 years when properly maintained | 15-20 years when properly maintained | 40+ years when properly maintained | Reputable manufacturers offer warranties typically for 25 years but these decks will last much longer when properly maintained |
NOTE: All decks, regardless of materials and construction, should be inspected annually for safety and cleaned with soap and water each year to maintain the best appearance. Breyer Construction also provides preventative deck maintenance and annual inspections.
Composite and Vinyl/PVC Decking Brands
Breyer Construction can design and build your deck from any brand of decking materials that suits your needs. We do, however, favor the following four brands because of benefits such as warranty, industry experience, company reputation, value, and a wide selection of choices and styles that serve almost any need you could have.
Breyer Construction is a TrexProGold Contractor
This is defined by Trex as, “TrexProGold contractors are part of an elite group within our referral network, who have installed a high volume of Trex decks and have demonstrated expertise in working with Trex products.”
Breyer Construction is a TimberTech Premier Contractor
Breyer Construction and Landscape handles both decking and railing, as well as dryspace. According to TimberTech, “TimberTech Premier Contractors are a specialized group within our referral network who have installed a high number of TimberTech decks and have a great knowledge in working with our products.”
Azek
Azek® has been making outdoor PVC products to endure the elements since in the 1980’s and began producing building products in 1999. Their products include: trim, moulding, deck, porch, and railing materials. A signature benefit to Azek building products is that they are highly resistant to scratching, staining, and splitting.
Fiberon
Fiberon® manufactures composite decking, deck railing and fencing products with the industry’s first, and exclusive, 20 warranty against staining and fading. When you want a deck that more closely resembles the look of real wood without the problems and high maintenance of real wood, Fiberon is your ideal choice.
Emphasis on Design….and Communication
We want you to think of Breyer not just as a deck builder, but a creative partner in making your dreams a reality, while leaning on our years of industry-leading design and construction expertise. Since decks are our specialty, we help you create solutions to everything you want and need your deck to be. There are no “dumb questions”; so as we walk through the design and selection process, and continue into the on-site construction, we welcome any and all questions! We want you to be comfortable with who we are, what we are doing, and why at all stages of the process. Remember- this should be fun, not frustrating!
That means we don’t just build your deck; we custom design it. You can get 3D renderings like the one shown below to help visualize your deck. From the simplest landing to the most complex backyard, Breyer will honor the trust you place in us with a deck you will love — a deck that provides decades of enjoyment. Contact us for your deck project.
See also…
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This is a resource packed section where you will discover exciting possibilities while preparing to interview deck builders before having your new deck created.
Get Inspired -
This extensive gallery of past projects designed and created by Breyer Construction will offer useful ideas and options you'll want to consider for your own deck.
Custom Decks
