A Few Common Questions

1. What is BigDecks?

BigDecks is a design and build company based in Austin focused on real wood decks and cohesive outdoor spaces. Our work is rooted in strong structure, honest materials, and simple moves that meaningfully change how a space is used. We are not interested in patchwork add-ons. We aim for one clear idea, built well.

2. Where do you work?

We are based in Austin and focus on Central Texas projects. Most of our work is in and around the Austin area. If you are slightly outside the city, reach out and we will tell you quickly whether it makes sense.

3. What kind of decks do you build?

We build real wood decks. No composite boards and no fake wood.

Our signature work uses oversized Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar with clean, simple detailing and pressure treated framing beneath. We also work with select thermally modified woods sourced from trusted suppliers in the United States.

When it makes sense, the deck becomes the anchor for a larger outdoor setting. That can include hardscaping such as stone patios, steps, retaining elements, and concrete work, along with planting, fencing, lighting, and occasionally saunas or cold plunges.

4. How much does a BigDeck cost?

Most projects start around $10,000 and increase based on size, access, footings, railings, hardscaping, planting, and expanded scope.

We are not married to using premium materials on every job. Sometimes a more cost-efficient material is the right choice for the house, the site, and the budget. We are genuinely happy to build that when it makes sense.

What we will not do is cut corners or build something incorrectly to hit a number. Clean, durable work matters more than the most expensive material on earth.

5. What does the process look like?

Every project starts with a short call to make sure the scope and budget align.

From there, most projects move into a dedicated design phase. This includes 3D drawings and photorealistic renderings prepared with our draftsman. We often use drone footage of the site so you can clearly see how the deck, hardscaping, and landscape will sit in your yard.

The design phase is $650 and allows us to align on priorities before building. Once the design is approved, we finalize pricing, sign an agreement, and schedule construction.

Design-only services are available but are priced separately from design and build work.

6. How long does a project take?

Once construction begins, smaller decks can be completed in a matter of days. Larger projects that include hardscaping, fencing, planting, concrete, or more complex layouts take longer.

We provide a clear schedule up front and communicate as the project progresses.

7. Do you handle permits and HOA approvals?

Not every project requires a permit. In Austin, smaller decks under roughly 200 square feet, remove-and-replace work within an existing footprint, and some hardscaping and landscaping are often treated as maintenance rather than new construction.

If a permit is required or preferred, there are two options. Many clients choose to pull the permit themselves with our support in the background. Others prefer that we manage it as part of the project. Both approaches are common.

For HOAs, we can provide drawings, material descriptions, and photos, or step in more directly if needed.

8. How do I take care of my deck after it is built?

Real wood requires maintenance, but it pays you back for it.

We typically finish decks with Cutek Extreme for premium materials and Olympic products for pressure treated work. Most woods require a recoat about six months after installation and roughly once per year after that.

We can provide clear care instructions or handle maintenance and refinishing as an ongoing service if you prefer.

9. Do you only build decks?

Decks are the starting point, and we are always happy to build a deck on its own.

Many projects expand into a complete outdoor environment. This can include hardscaping such as stone patios, steps, concrete pads, site walls, and retaining elements, along with fencing, gates, planting, and lighting. We lean toward durable materials and native Texas plants designed for real conditions, not just photos.

We also work with select manufacturers for saunas, hot tubs, and cold plunges and are a distributor for Plungie Pools.

Our work stays outside. We do not perform interior work or act as licensed electrical or plumbing contractors. Instead, we coordinate closely with trusted trade partners when needed.

10. What makes BigDecks different?

We design first, then build.

Every project is led by John, whose background spans architectural design, furniture, steel windows and doors, and industrial manufacturing. That experience informs how we think about scale, proportion, structure, and long-term use.

The first question is never where to put boards. It is how you want to use the space and how it should feel. From there, we choose materials and details that support that goal.

If you want the cheapest possible deck built fast, we are not the right fit. If you want a well-built outdoor space that feels intentional and improves how you live at home, that is what we do.