As we move into 2025, the pool building industry in the Midwest is seeing a surge in innovative designs and advanced technologies. For homeowners considering adding a pool to their property, this year promises exciting trends that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your backyard but also significantly boost your property’s value. At Backyard Builders, we’re at the forefront of these trends, ready to turn your pool ideas into reality.
Why Invest in a Pool? Before diving into the trends, let’s highlight why investing in a pool is a smart decision. A well-designed pool is more than a luxury; it’s an investment that adds substantial value to your property. Pools create a personal oasis, offering a vacation experience right in your own backyard. Whether you’re looking to enhance family time, entertain guests, or enjoy personal relaxation, a pool transforms your home environment. Trend #1: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Pools In 2025, sustainability is a key focus. Homeowners are increasingly seeking eco-friendly pool designs that minimize environmental impact. This includes energy-efficient pumps, solar heating systems, and LED lighting. Additionally, natural pools that use plants and biological filters to keep the water clean are gaining popularity. These green options not only reduce your carbon footprint but can also lower maintenance costs. Trend #2: Smart Pool Technology Smart technology is revolutionizing the pool industry. From automated cleaning systems to remote-controlled lighting and heating, technology makes pool maintenance easier and more efficient. Imagine controlling your pool’s features from your smartphone or tablet. This level of convenience is not just a luxury; it enhances the overall pool experience and ensures your pool is always ready for a swim. Trend #3: Customizable Pool Designs Customization is king in 2025. Homeowners want pools that reflect their personal style and fit seamlessly with their outdoor living space. This trend includes unique shapes, luxurious materials, and intricate tile work. Features like built-in waterfalls, tanning ledges, and swim-up bars are also in high demand. At Backyard Builders, our pool builders work closely with you to design a pool that is truly one-of-a-kind. Trend #4: Health and Wellness Pools Health and wellness are at the forefront of pool design trends. Pools equipped with features like hydrotherapy jets, lap lanes for exercise, and integrated spas promote physical well-being. Saltwater pools, which offer a gentler swimming experience compared to traditional chlorine pools, are also becoming popular. These options provide not just a place to swim, but a sanctuary for relaxation and health. Trend #5: Outdoor Living Integration Modern pools are designed as part of a comprehensive outdoor living space. This trend includes the integration of outdoor kitchens, fire pits, lounge areas, and landscaping that complements the pool. Creating a cohesive outdoor environment enhances the usability and enjoyment of your backyard, making it a perfect venue for gatherings and relaxation. Why Choose Tranquility Pools? At Backyard Builders, we have master pool builders on staff who are dedicated to bringing these 2024 trends to life with precision and creativity. As a leading pool company in Northeastern Illinois, our experienced pool builders are committed to delivering top-notch service and innovative pool designs. We take your pool ideas and transform them into a stunning reality, ensuring your investment brings long-term satisfaction and value. The pool building trends of 2025 offer exciting opportunities to enhance your home and lifestyle. By investing in a pool, you’re not only adding value to your property but also creating a personal retreat that can be enjoyed for years to come. If you’re ready to explore the possibilities, contact Backyard Builders today. Let us help you turn your backyard into the ultimate destination for relaxation and enjoyment.
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5 Tips When Searching For Deck Builders Near me
Whether you and your family are in need of a brand new deck or an outdoor deck rebuild, finding the best deck builder for the job is of utmost importance. When you must find a deck builder in your area that can get the job done right, searching for the perfect one can prove to be a real hassle. Not only should your deck builder be reliable and local, but they should also have the necessary skill set to help build you a stunning deck for a reasonable price. The top five tips for getting the best when searching for deck building near you include making sure your computer’s location option is on, being detailed when searching, looking at past reviews, perusing before and after photos, and using the term “licensed” in your searches. Getting the right contractor to help build your home’s deck will make or break your level of satisfaction in the long run. If you don’t choose the right person or company, you could end up with an unstable or unsafe deck, leading to costly repairs and rebuilding time in the future. To pick the right deck builder, you need to have a plan. Planning your search will be a breeze if you follow our easy tips for choosing the right deck builder near you. Keep reading to learn more. Have You Ever Wondered: Who can Build me a Deck? When seeking the right company or builder to build you and your family a deck for your home, there are many factors to consider. Deciding who will build your deck is one of the most important. While many contractors and patio builders out there claim to do high-quality work, it is important to do the research for yourself. If you have ever found yourself looking at your yard and wondering, “Who on earth can build me the deck of my dreams?” then it’s clear that you need a professional. Backyard Builders Deck & Pergola in Grayslake, Illinois, specializes in new construction and the restoration of decks in the area. Backyard Builders puts its clients’ needs first. Backyard Builders pride themselves on being family-oriented and engaged in their community. With a passion for both beautiful front and back yards, their attention to detail, craftsmanship, maintained building licensing status, and Certified Pro status for Deckorators, Fiberon and Timbertech will help ensure that you get the high-quality deck you’ve been imagining. How Do I Find a Contractor to Build a Deck? When trying to find a contractor online to build a deck for your home, the best way to do so is to use a widely known search engine. Using short phrasing rather than full sentences, search “deck builders near me.” Doing so, especially with your computer’s location settings turned on, will help you find a directory of local deck builders in your general area to begin researching. The Importance of Hiring a Great Deck Builder The very best way to ensure that you get a safe and sturdy deck is to hire a deck builder. Not only will they build your deck’s foundation and any corresponding safety rails or supports properly, but hiring a deck builder will make sure that the entire building process is up to code. Following deck-building regulations is imperative in avoiding fines and fees from your city or Home Ownership Association. Poorly built decks that do not meet regulatory requirements are often either served a cease and desist notice during the building process or ordered to be torn down completely upon completion. Hiring a good deck builder means that they will be knowledgeable about all the rules and safety steps that need to be followed while building or reconstructing your deck. 5 Tips on Getting the Best when Searching for “Deck Builders Near Me” Make Sure Your Location Settings Are Turned On When searching the internet for the best deck builder to do the job for you, it is important to make sure you find viable options that are local to your area. If searching from a laptop or desktop computing device, make sure your location settings are on. You can do this by clicking:
When searching from a cell phone or iPad of any kind, make sure you are first connected to a stable wifi connection. Then:
Be Detailed in Your Search Specifications If you’re looking for a top of the line deck builder to build your deck, make sure you are specific when typing keywords into your search engine. Simply typing “deck build” won’t get you the same precise results as typing in “certified deck builder in Grayslake.” The more specific you are in as few words as possible, the more successful your search will be. Look for Customer Reviews When looking online for deck builders near you, paying close attention to customer reviews can make or break your decision. Make sure to seek out reviews for any deck building company, whether featured on their website, Google, or Yelp. Reviews can frequently be as good as recommendations from close friends. While not all reviews are completely reflective of what your experience with a deck builder may be, having many positive reviews is often a good sign that a deck builder is both communicative and knows what they’re doing. The more customer reviews in your area, the more likely the deck builder is to continue serving that area. Check out the Before and After Photos If you are searching for a deck builder online and come across a local builder’s page, take the opportunity to look for before and after photos. Finding examples of the types of decks they build and common locations they build in will give you an idea of what they have to offer. Checking out some outdoor kitchen ideas for Grayslake is a good place to start your research. It can also help with inspiration or comparing two different deck building companies in your same area. Try Searching for “Licensed” Builders When typing your keywords into your search engine, make sure you opt for adding the phrases “licensed” or “certified.” This will weed out any beginning or amateur deck builders. It will also help you avoid getting caught up with general construction companies, individual contractors, and patio builders who claim to be deck experts without the proper certifications to back up their work. Hiring a deck builder near you that can properly pass all inspections and certification requirements will pay off when your deck is completed sturdily and beautifully. What Materials Will Be Used to Make My Deck? When hiring a professional that you found in your search for the best deck builder, you will most likely be offered a few different options for exactly how your deck can be built or refurbished. Typically, decks are made from wood. This wood is of the highest quality and isn’t being reused from anywhere else unless requested by the homeowner. The type of wood and materials often used to create a deck can include:
While it seems like a simple yes or no question, the answer is actually slightly more complex. While patio builders and deck builders are definitely not the same, there are some deck builders that also build patios. You typically won’t find, however, a company specializing in patios that also builds impeccable decks. The Specialties of a Deck Builder When seeking someone to build a deck for your home, hiring an actual deck building company is the way to go. This is because deck building includes working in specific materials, including natural wooden materials that must match your home’s surroundings. Deckbuilding requires a lot of structural support and architectural knowledge, and hiring someone specializing in deck building can offer you more peace of mind that your deck will be sound when finished. Even though hiring a deck builder means they specialize in decks, they might also specialize in additional fields such as patio building. Backyard Builders, for example, offers four different services, including:
Rather than choosing any contractor that you come across in your neighborhood, take the time to do the following:
When hiring a professional deck builder, you should look for some standard services as well as the personality and professional makeup of the company and contractor who will be doing the work on your deck or patio.
Remember, there’s a difference between a deck and patio, and that is where you want to spend a lot of family time, entertain guests, and relax. So, the work should be done to your exact specifications and with courtesy and professionalism. Don’t settle for any less. Gets Back to you Quickly with Answers When you start the interview process with estimates and design ideas, you will probably call your patio or deck builder back and forth. This is standard until everything is finalized, and a professional builder will not waste your time. If you call your deck or patio builder and don’t get a call back until the next day, that is not a good sign. Any builder with a professional and well-run business always has time for the upfront estimate questions and the details that the customer wants to be answered before construction begins. If they are already blowing you off, find someone else. (Source: Design Builders Inc.) Is Upfront About Costs and Payment Conditions Estimates are just an approximate value for the work that will be done. However, you want to find a deck builder who can compare past work and references to get the best idea possible of how much the construction will cost you. Why you want to know about upfront costs:
Suppose you ask for credentials, past work estimates, or payment conditions that don’t make sense. In that case, your builder should absolutely hold nothing back. If they do not seem upfront about payment conditions, costs of labor, materials, or are not willing to give references for work they have already completed, look elsewhere for your deck builder. (Source: How Stuff Works) The Personality of the Builder Some people are just hard to be around. There is no denying that certain folks were not made to be interpersonal and friendly. However, even if your builder is the best in the world, you still have to have conversations and work with the person on a daily basis at your own home. A deck builder with a short temper or other off-putting character traits and personality can put a damper on your renovation and cause you unneeded stress and anxiety. Home renovation is already very stressful for you and your family. The last thing you need is a deck or patio builder who is not too pleasant to work with. Do yourself a favor and vet who you hire. Even if your deck or patio builder’s personality is a bit bristly, it should not get in the way of the wishes you have for completing the deck or patio. If you are having trouble getting through to your builder or find that they cut you off or will not let you help plan your own project, it may be time to find another builder who is a little more sensitive to the needs of their customers. (Source: Slinde Nelson) Follow-up or Repair Services Now, follow up or repair services are not necessary for hiring a deck builder. However, it is always good to ask about the warranty of their work, what kind of discounts they offer on repairs, or if they will provide follow-up appointments to make sure everything with the deck or patio is settled properly. Some of the most common follow up, or repair services offered for free or at a discount by deck builders to their customers are:
Most professional deck and patio builders are willing to stand by their work and offer repeat customers incentives to stay happy. Repair work is generally discounted, or a number of follow-up appointments may be available. If there are no offers or guarantees on the work, it may be wise to seek a builder elsewhere. End Date Planning Finding a deck builder with complete transparency about an end date is difficult to find. Nailing down that date is like nailing Jell-o to the wall. However, conservative end dates should be negotiated to your liking and their capability. Once that date is set, the work can begin in good faith. You may also want to ask for other references about end date completion from the builder’s previous customers. Just because you make an end date doesn’t mean he has to stick to it. Find out if their word is their bond and if they can really get the job done with confidence. Also, suppose your contractor is not willing to put an end date on the work they are doing for your deck or patio. In that case, it might mean that they are inexperienced, uneducated, or just don’t care. These are all red flags when it comes to building a structure that your family will be walking and sitting on regularly. End date planning is an important signifier or quality service from a deck builder. (Source: Bell, Davis, Pitt) Permitting Requirements It is possible for the customer to seek out and receive their own building permits for the work of a deck or patio at their own property. However, a deck or patio builder who offers this service takes the time and effort away from you. It is an added benefit to find a builder who can set up, schedule, and take care of filing a building permit for you. Not all will, but it is a bonus. Another great thing about a professional builder who is willing to do the paperwork and hustle of obtaining a building permit is that it puts the pressure on your builder to complete the work request. The permit is in their name and must be completed and cleared with the county office before their name is taken off of an official permit. There can be several regulations and laws in certain counties about the number of permits a contractor or deck builder can have open at one time. Licensing and Insurance Getting work done by a deck or patio builder who is not licensed or insured can help you to save a few pennies. However, an unlicensed and uninsured worker on your property can be devastating in the long run if you or anyone on your property is injured during the construction of your deck or patio or even after it has been fully built. The dangers of building without licenses or insurance for your deck or patio builder:
Insurance is also crucial for a safe construction zone. You don’t want to worry about people getting hurt while building anything on your property and then coming after you for damages. Insurance from the builder should take care of themselves and any workers that they have with them. (Source: Next insurance) A Little About Backyard Builders Deck & Pergola in Grayslake, Our team of highly qualified and licensed professionals is here to work for you and your family. Our experience with both new construction and renovations for decks and patios gives us an edge over the competition. We can guarantee work end dates, estimate ranges, and the quality of our workmanship. For over fifteen years, our team of deck builders at Backyard Builders has been dedicated to making your family’s dreams come true. We want you to be completely relaxed throughout the planning and construction process and get you using your new deck with your family and friends as quickly as possible. How to Contact us When you are ready to make your dreams of a relaxing and functional deck come true, make sure to contact us for the best professional builders in the business. Our office is open five days a week on Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. You can also email us your request for an estimate or any other questions you might have for full service and quick answers to your email. Call us today! Outro A quality builder for your deck or patio makes all the difference. You want to be able to trust the builder who is in your home and working on something that your family will be using for years to come. Make sure to use this list and do your due diligence to find the right deck builder for your next project. Remember, if your builder’s aspects don’t match up with the quality of work described in this guide, reconsider and find yourself a better option like our professional team at Backyard Builders Deck & Pergola of Lake County. We hope to hear from you soon. The debate between composite decking and wood is an ongoing one. And, understandably so, since adding a deck to your home increases your outdoor entertaining space and home value. When working with the installer, you may find yourself deciding between composite decking and wood options for your construction material. Why choose composite decking over wood? Composite decking provides your home with a clean wood-look without the drawbacks of actual wood. Where wood tends to splinter, wear, and crack, composite decking holds together and lasts up to twenty years. This material is easy on upkeep, resistant to insect damage, and lower in cost, making it an excellent decking choice. Many homeowners weigh the benefits of both wood and composite decking, wondering which they should select. While wood is more traditional, due to the many benefits of composite decking, it has become more familiar over the years. As more installers offer it, people are learning the reasons to choose this material. Choosing to install a deck is the easy part. The hard part is selecting the right materials. So many options can make it overwhelming, just trying to decide which is the best bet for your wallet and home. While wood is an old standby, it may not be the best selection for your home. You should consider what your expectations are for your deck and how much time you want to devote to it. With that in mind, there are three top reasons to choose composite over wood decking. 1. Easy To Maintain There is a lot of maintenance that goes into owning a home. With composite decking, you can scratch deck maintenance off your list! All composite decking requires to stay at the top of its game is a good cleaning or sweeping session to stay looking its best. Homeowners with wood decks can relay the tribulations of having to upkeep their deck over the years. As wood is a natural and porous material, it can take in moisture, which allows it to crack, warp, and rot. Regular sealing is needed to keep out harmful water from your board. When a deck is first installed, the wood can look beautiful, but it loses its color and fades over time. You could end up spending more time staining your deck than expected to keep it looking great. Others forgo the natural look and paint their deck, which requires regular repainting to repair chips and peeling. With composite decking, none of this is an issue. It does not fade or require painting, meaning it will look great year-round. There are even moisture preventative options that keep your boards from absorbing dangerous water, check out our deck maintenance tips to keep your deck looking great! You get the beauty of a wood-look deck without the hard work to keep it that way. 2. Cost-Effective The cost can be a huge factor when it comes to choosing a decking material. When making your choice, don’t just think of the initial cost, but the cost over time. While initially more expensive, the low maintenance needs of composite decking make it more affordable over time. Wood decking appears to be the more affordable option at the start. From there, you must take into account all of the accumulated potential future costs to keep your deck at its best. Stains, sealants, and paint can rack up your budget quite quickly. On top of the standard maintenance, there are insect treatments and potential replacements to consider. Different types of wood can attract different kinds of insects, leading to you needing multiple treatments to prevent damage. If the boards are too damaged, full out replacement may be required. Because composite decking doesn’t have these drawbacks, it can start returning on your investment within three years. You can enjoy your deck without worry of wear, damage, or replacement for many years. The initial cost may be high, but the fact you won’t have any additional charges in the future makes it money well spent. 3. Eco-Friendly Over the past few years, eco-friendliness has been a big sticking point for many people. While you want a beautiful deck, you want to be sure you aren’t damaging the environment with chemicals or tearing down trees to better your property. That is where composite decking comes in. When making these boards, manufacturers use recycled wood and plastics. This means you don’t have to worry about any damage to nature! Composite decking is completely recycled material brought together to create a sturdy decking option for you. On top of that, you will not have to be concerned about damaging the environment with chemicals. There is no staining, treatment, or sealant needed for composite boards as they use plastics to insulate them. Without the need for these, you won’t be spreading the chemical around your home. How Much is Composite Decking vs. Wood Typically? Going over the numbers on decking materials can be a deciding factor. While composite decking provides a plethora of benefits for your home, it has a higher initial cost of $75 to $105 per square foot. A significant factor in the cost of wood decking is the fact it is seasonal. During different times of the year, the market prices can fluctuate, making it more or less expensive during these periods. At some times of the year, you may get a deal, while others it could skyrocket. Composite roofing maintains a relatively steady cost as it relies on manufacturing rather than what’s in season. While it remains relatively high, it returns on that investment in a short time. The minimal maintenance and longevity of this material make it worth the initial cost. What are the Disadvantages of Composite Decking? No material is perfect, which is why the comparison is necessary to make the best choice. You have to choose the best option for your home’s needs. While composite decking is a great choice, it is not without its disadvantages:
What Types of Composite Decking Does Backyard Builders Have? Backyard Builders Deck & Pergola offers a quality selection of composite decking for you. No two homes have the same style needs. With that in mind, Backyard Builders works with Deckorators to offer top composite deck options of Frontier, Vault, and Voyage to give you the best choices and look:
Is Composite Decking Worth it? When it comes down to it, yes, composite decking is worth the money in the long run. It gives a homeowner a fantastic entertaining or relaxation space without the significant concerns of other decking materials. This can be a great boon for those who want simplicity in their deck. You won’t have to stress the change of seasons or wonder if your deck is prepared with composite. Since it is low maintenance, you will know that you won’t have to seal or stain it in a rush. Sweep and wash and let the weather come. Its durability and clean look will ensure that you can walk across it without hazard no matter what time of year. There will never be a worry of catching a splinter or a cracked board being noticeable to the company. You can make a sustainable choice for the environment and your home all at once. However, it is up to the homeowner to make the final decision. The high initial cost can make this option unappealing to many. Weigh the good versus the bad to see if installing this deck is something you should save up. Final Thoughts When you are installing a new deck or replacing an old one, composite decking may be just the thing for you. While wood is beautiful, it can be taxing for those not expecting the upkeep and maintenance required to keep the deck safe year-round. Composite decking is the low maintenance option, and it adds value to your home. While the initial cost is higher, the maintenance on a wood deck over time accrues far more charges, overshadowing composite decking in the long run. This can be unexpected and surprise you, but sanding, staining, painting, and sealing are regular tasks that must be done with your wooden deck. This takes not just money, but some of your precious time. With composite, all you have to do is wash. There is no seasonal preparation or treatment required. With a quick sweep and wipe down, you can have an outdoor living space ready for anyone to come over and relax. With all of this in mind, composite decking is worth it in the long run and provides a fantastic return on homeowners’ investment. Choosing this decking will give you the space you need with a great look and durability. Never stress about repairs again. |
AuthorWayne Paulsboe Archives
December 2024
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