DDT Home Pros

October 2025

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4 Things a Composite Deck WILL and WILL NOT Do!

A composite deck WILL beautifully withstand years of sun, sleet & snow! A treated lumber deck will require regular, costly maintenance such as sanding and re-staining in order to keep it looking beautiful. A composite deck is not only available in a variety of colors, those colors will stay beautiful for years with little effort. A composite deck WILL clean easily with soap and water! The shell on a composite deck can be wiped clean due to the outer shell on each board. A treated lumber deck will require pressure washing, which can remove stains as well as the deck finish if care isn’t taken. During routine cleaning, any treated lumber deck boards that have warped should also be changed. Your composite deck boards will hold their shape! A composite deck WILL come with a warranty. TREX, for example, comes with 25-year Limited Residential and Fade & Stain Warranties and also has an exclusive TrexPro Labor Warranty which covers 100% of the labor cost for warranty replacement for 2 years beyond the project completion date when you purchase Trex Transcend deck or porch flooring when you use a Trex Pro Gold or Platinum Contractor, such as DDT Home Transformations! A treated lumber deck doesn’t come with any warranties. A composite deck WILL let forestfuls of trees grow and grow! TREX is made of 95% recycled materials! Pressure treated lumber does not come from recycled materials and isn’t the best option for environmentally conscience consumers. A composite deck WILL NOT rot, warp, or splinter like treated lumber, or any other wood decking for that matter, will. Composite decking stays smooth and beautiful for years! A composite deck WILL NOT fade or stain! TREX has a 25 year warranty for that! If you get a stain on a wood deck, prepare to use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub it out with a cleaning solution. Simply rinse off your composite deck with some soapy water! A composite deck WILL NOT need seasonal painting, sealing or staining! Depending on what product is used on a wood deck, the horizontal surfaces should be re-stained every 2 – 3 years after a thorough pressure washing and sanding where necessary. A composite deck WILL NOT become food for termites! Other pests that can cause damage to your wood deck include carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and wood boring beetles. Composite decks are bug resistant! In all cases, your choice of deck color is important because composite decking is much longer lasting than natural high maintenance product! Visit our deck gallery and veiw some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule an estimate! #newdeck #deckbuilder #homeimprovement #curveddeck #contractor

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Color Choice and Your Long Lasting Low Maintenance Composite Deck

So you’ve decided to build a new deck, or reface your aging deck, with low maintenance composite deck boards! Now, what color(s) should it be?! The deck color that you choose should complement your home and yard. It can be a bold combination of style and color and become the focus of your yard, or it can be simple and classic and blend into the everyday function of your outdoor living space. Choosing between a traditional color scheme and a bold color scheme is a good place to start. If you are not sure which you’d prefer, you should start by looking at the overall design and shape of your deck. A complex design with curved boards, flared stairs, multiple levels, angles, or any combination of these design elements, may be best suited with a simple, single color scheme that works with your siding color by blending in for a stately presence or an accenting single-color selection for a glamorous appearance. A simpler square or rectangular deck could be made elegant by using a two-color scheme with accenting perimeter boards, railings, and center boards, or an inlaid design. Personal preference, of course, is always the final deciding factor. Deck colors for a Tan House: Trying to find a deck color that exactly matches your tan siding just doesn’t work. Alternatively, try choosing colors in a medium brown color. Matching or black railings would look right at home in this color scheme. Deck colors for a White House: A white house will make any color you choose look amazing, but that doesn’t help narrow down your choices! If you’ve got the complex designed deck, try light grey shades or soft neutral browns. If you’re looking to feature your deck as a focal point, reds, rich browns, and golds would do the trick! Dress them up with bright white or two-tone railings! Deck colors for a Grey House: Grey siding has become increasingly popular and those grey tones can range from light to dark and warm to cool. The most popular deck colors for grey houses include soft browns, reds, or more complex colors that vary in grey tones that complement other greys. Black or white railings are good options here. It is always best to see a rendering of your deck in color so that you can visualize the final product in your head and see actual sample boards before you sign any papers. Brochures and internet pictures are not always perfect purveyors of color. Pay attention to the texture of the board as well, especially if looking at accenting colors. If you’re choosing a product with woodgrain embossing, you want to make sure that the embossing is consistent from color to color. In all cases, your choice of deck color is important because composite decking is much longer lasting than natural high maintenance product! Visit our deck gallery and veiw some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule an estimate! #lowmaintenance #longlasting #newdeck #compositedeck #deckresurface #deckcontractor

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Top 3 Reasons Why Spring is the Best Time to Build Your Deck!

What do you think of when you think of warm summer nights? Does it include relaxing outdoors, maybe with friends? A backyard BBQ or swimming in the pool? S’mores and laughs around the bonfire? During the winter months it can be hard to imagine that the snow will ever melt! When the weather outside is cold, rainy, dreary, and otherwise not where you’d like to spend time relaxing outside, the last thing on your mind is building a deck! Well, it should be at top of your to-do list! If you want your yard to be ready for outdoor enjoyment come Summer, Spring is the time to have that deck built! Research deck builders early so that you have an idea of which companies you want bidding your project. Take your time looking at pictures of their work and reading reviews. A deck is an investment in your property and you want it done right. If a new deck is what you want for Summer, Spring is the time to start! Visit our deck gallery and veiw some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule an estimate! #decking #newdeck #outdoorliving #springproject

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5 Custom Features to Consider When Designing your Deck

It’s time to spruce up your backyard and get ready for summer! Adding a new custom deck is a great way to bring outdoor living to the next level! some curves! Adding curves to your deck isn’t just for rounded pools (although that looks amazing too!). Curves can be added to staircases for grandeur! Curves can allow the shape of your deck to conform to your existing landscaping without limiting your square footage! Aesthetically, a curved deck looks more organic and elegant! Pro Tip: Some TrexPro Builders (DDT Home Transformations, LLC) have a special oven that allows them to actually custom curve Trex Composite deck boards to a template. Visit our deck gallery and view some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule a free estimate! #curveddeck #decking #compositedeck #outdoorliving

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5 Reasons you May Want to Build a New Deck this Summer!

There are many things to consider when deciding to build a deck and it’s important to know what function you hope your deck will serve before you start the building process. Is your deck going to be for entertaining, dining, and aesthetics? Does it need to serve a function such as surround a pool or spa? Consider the following when deciding if you may want to build a new deck this summer! Add lighting, tiki torches, and wicker furniture with tropical patterns for an island feel. Add curves, flared stairs, and complementary deck board colors for architectural elegance. Consider an area for lounge chairs and a low table in an area that receives just the right amount of sun (or shade)! If you want shade, but you have a sunny backyard, consider a pergola! Work closely with your deck building during the design stage to make sure your deck becomes the outdoor haven you’ve always dreamed of! Once you’ve defined the “why” in your decision to build a deck, work with your deck builder to create a design for a valuable, space adding, functional and beautiful deck! Visit our deck gallery and view some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule a free estimate! #newdeck #homeimprovement #outdoorliving #lockport #springproject #deckcontractor #contractor #compositedeck

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3 Reasons you Should Resurface your Aging Wood Deck with Composite Deck Boards

Your deck may look a bit rough but stil be structurally sound. Consider resurfacing your existing frame with trex comosite decking. Here are 3 reasons why! resurfacing your deck with composite deck boards gives you the opportunity to completely change to look of your deck. During the planning stages, work with your deck builder to come up with a design that fits your yard and your personality. Use contrasting or complementing colors by incorporating a “picture frame” perimeter or if you want to be even more unique, a design inlay such as a diamond pattern! If you want to enlarge your deck, hire a builder who can curve your composite deck boards and handrails to make the deck’s shape more organic and blend it with your landscaping! Adding lighting to your deck is also much easier before the deck boards are installed, so make sure to discuss your options, such as deck rail lights and riser lights, with your builder before the start of the project. It is always a good idea to select a deck builder with experience with the product you’ve chosen. Composite deck brands, such as Trex, have specific installation instructions and a Trex Pro builder is trained and certified to install their product. A builder certified to install your deck is best qualified to ensure that your substructure complies with the product installation guides before resurfacing your existing deck. Visit our deck gallery and view some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule a free estimate! #deck #deckresurface #compositedeck #trex #newdeck #renovation #curvedeck

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8 Deck Design Ideas to make your Deck Extraordinary!

Contrasting Colors: The easiest way to make your deck stand out is by utilizing contrasting colored deck boards. Use an accent color as a deck perimeter to create a frame or as a design inlay. Use black or white aluminum railings to enhance the color of your deck boards. Choose a contrasting color to be installed vertically below your fascia board as an alternative to lattice or chicken wire to block access to the underside of your deck to pests. Multiple Levels: Building a deck with multiple levels adds architectural interest to your deck. Each level can be defined for it purpose by selecting the appropriate patio furniture. One level could be a space for eating with a patio table and chairs while another level can be for relaxing on an outdoor sofa with cocktail table. A recessed seating area encourages gathering and conversation. Combine Deck Space with Patio Space: Another way to make your backyard more interesting is to use both decking and patio materials such as stone or stamped concrete to create your outdoor living space. A concrete or stone patio is the perfect place to incorporate a built-in fire pit or a home for your bbq grill! Make the design beautiful and interesting by adding curves to the patio and a flare shape to the deck where it steps down onto the patio. Built-In Seating: Have benches built from your decking material added to your deck design to make seating that is convenient and blends seamlessly into the aesthetic of your deck. Benches can be built with or without backs or they can back up to the deck railing. Pergolas: Adding a pergola to your deck design add both beauty and practicality. Choose a design that complements the architecture of your home. Pergolas can have 1 level of shade providing boards or multiple. Be sure that your deck builder installs the boards to optimize the shade provided based on the direction that your home faces. Flower Boxes: Use flower boxes as space defining features between different levels of your deck to add color and softness to your design. Flower boxes, if built tall enough, can also replace sections of railing. Select zone appropriate plants that will add a pop of color or certain herbs that can help deter mosquitoes such as basil or peppermint to make spending time outdoors even more enjoyable! Curves: Adding curves to deck boards and railings is a fun way to make your deck truly unique! Some contractors have the equipment necessary to bend deck boards and railings to make an organic deck design that blends with nature and eliminates harsh corners. Lighting: Don’t forget to add lighting to your deck design! Lighting can be used to accent any aspect of your deck including railings, stair risers, flower boxes, and elevation changes. A deck with proper, well-planned lighting always looks more elegant than a deck with the backyard flood light turned on! Visit our deck gallery and view some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule a free estimate! #deck #curveddeck #trex #trexdecking #trexrailing #trexcurve #deckcontractor #decking #deckdesign

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Consider Using a TrexPro for your Deck Project

There are many options for your backyard paradise including concrete or block patios, wood decks, or composite decks. With all of the options available, Trex has made its name as the front runner in composite decking by providing an impressive variety of high-performance, low-maintenance, environmentally conscious products in a well-developed pallet of available colors. The deck builder that you choose to install your Trex deck should be knowledgeable with Trex products and their installation techniques to avoid costly mistakes, deck failures, and voided warranties. This is why it’s important to use a TrexPro to install a Trex deck. In order to become a TrexPro, a builder has to request an application and provide a state contractor’s license and proof of current general liability insurance to state-required levels. The contractor then needs to attend an information session held by a Trex sales representative or Trex distributor. This is essentially a training session. The contractor learns product knowledge and the proper installation techniques that will be covered by Trex’s warranty. Then, the contractor must build three decks, including at least one with railing, in accordance to Trex specifications and have those decks reviewed by a Trex sales representative. This is to ensure that the builder understands and is committed to proper installation. Upon successful completion, the contractor is designated a TrexPro builder. At this point, the TrexPro will be listed on Trex.com to be found by potential clients. On the Trex website, under “Find a Builder”, there are 3 designations of TrexPro deck builders. TrexPro Deck Builders are usually the newest contractors that have gone through the TrexPro designation process or companies who build Trex decks, but not as their primary focus. TrexPro Gold Deck Builders have achieved advanced product and installation training and are more experienced with using Trex products. TrexPro Platinum is the highest level of recognition that Trex designates a deck builder. TrexPro Platinum deck builders are the leading TrexPros in their areas and demonstrate expertise in building beautiful outdoor living spaces ranging from simple to the most complex. TrexPro Platinum designated deck builders are the most experienced with Trex products and installation techniques. TrexPro-designated companies are expertly trained to install Trex products. Trex provides onsite training, literature, videos, and training demonstrations to ensure the contractor is up to date on new products, installation techniques, and Trex specific installation tools. Using a TrexPro for you deck project ensures that your deck will be built correctly and that Trex will back the product for years of enjoyment. Visit our deck gallery and view some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule a free estimate! #trex #trexdecking #trexcurve #newdeck #compositedeck #contractor

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Deck Railing Options to Give Your Outdoor Living Space its Finishing Touch.

When choosing to build a deck with composite materials such as Trex, there are many features to consider such as size and shape of your deck, color scheme and how it accents or blends with your home, board layouts including inlays and curves, and the finishing touch is selecting a railing style . Trex offers several options to help make your railing beautiful as well as functional. Trex Signature Railing: Made from powder-coated aluminum, it works with traditional and modern deck designs. It is available in neutral tones and carries a 25-year limited warranty. Balusters are available in round and square options. Railings can be custom curved to match the design of your deck. Cocktail rail can be installed as a surface for planters and drinks. Signature railing works well with all Trex decking and lighting! Trex Transcend Railing: This Trex’s highest performing railing option! I will not splinter, peel, warp, or rot and it never needs painting or staining! Transcend railing is a component system meaning that you can mix and match with any Trex railing line and pairs perfectly with Transcend decking! Post sleeves, skirts, and caps are available 4×4 posts in all railing colors and 6×6 posts in white only. Transcend railing is a minimum of 40% recycled material and is backed by Trex’s 25-year limited residential warranty. Trex Select Railing: This is Trex’s most affordable handrail. Rails are available in classic white and can be paired with either white, black, or bronze aluminum balusters. For an upgraded look, mix and match Select railings and balusters with Trex post sleeves, post sleeve caps, and post sleeve skirts in another color to complement or match your deck boards! Trex ADA-Compliant Handrail: Trex offers a heavy-duty aluminum system made with a high quality powder-coated finish that resists fading, chipping, and corrosion. ADA compliant handrail systems are available in Charcoal Black, Bronze, and Classic White. Glass Panel Accessory Kit: If you’re putting in a new deck to enjoy you’re beautiful view and just hate the idea of a railing between you and nature, Trex has a solution for that too! Trex has available, a Glass Panel Accessory Kit which includes glass panel mounting hardware for use between Trex railings. Glass panels are not included. Visit our deck gallery and view some great examples on our website! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/ – or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule a free estimate! #deck #deckrail #railing #ballusters #newdeck #decking #compositedeck #trex #trexdecking #trexrailing #trexcurve

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6 Popular Color Options to Make Your Deck a Destination

Choosing which color composite decking material to select for your new deck can be a daunting task. Your new deck is an investment that you hope will add elegance and beauty to your back yard. Here are six popular options for combining Trex colors and other materials to create a backyard escape that is more than just a place to put your patio furniture. Make your deck a destination! Coastal: Mix Enhance Beach Dune and Clam Shell deck boards with Transcend railing in white with black aluminum balusters for a deck that would be right at home near the beach. Clam Shell as a cool, dark accent to the neutral tones in Beach Dune creates the feel of a beachside boardwalk, lively and fun. Traditional: Transcend Spiced Rum Decking with accents of Vintage Lantern offer warm, clean lines in complementary colors. Warm, timeless hues blend into your outdoor living space as a comfortable site for entertaining friends at a backyard BBQ. Modern: Enhance Beach Dune deck boards paired with Transcend Charcoal black railing and black aluminum balusters are a modern combination that pairs well with wrought iron patio furniture and colorful planters. Add deck lighting, cocktails, and friends to bring this deck to life at night! Lakeside: Trex Transcend in Gravel Path is a warm grey neutral that’s just right overlooking your lake or surrounding your pool. Add turquois patio furniture cushions or pillows to bring a beach feel to your back yard. TREX TRANSCEND® DECKING IN SPICED RUM AND TRANSCEND® RAILING IN CLASSIC WHITE AND VINTAGE LANTERN Tropical: Transcend decking in Lava Rock with Fire Pit cocktail handrails make potted plants or lush landscaping pop in vibrant greens reminiscent of the jungle floor and canopy. Add pinks, reds, or orange tones to make it feel as though your deck was on another continent. Rustic: Trex Select Saddle and Winchester Grey decking are earthy colors that blend into your backyard space in natural hues reminiscent of a cabin in the woods. Relax and catch a sunrise with a hot cup of coffee on a cool, autumn morning. Visitery and view some great examples on our website then set up your free estimate! https://www.ddthomepros.com/contact/– or just phone 630-200-3945 to schedule! #deck #newdeck #deckingmaterials #compositedeck #compositedecking #deckingmaterial #coloroptions

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