Decks & Porches

What We Build

We design and build all types of outdoor living structures including:

• Custom decks — ground level, elevated, multi-level, and everything in between
• Covered porches — fully roofed outdoor living spaces that let you enjoy the outdoors rain or shine
• Screened porches — all the fresh air, none of the bugs. A screened porch is one of the most-used outdoor additions we build
• Pergolas — beautiful overhead structures that add shade, definition, and character to an outdoor space
• Decks and porches with lighting — well-designed lighting dramatically extends how much you use your outdoor space, long after the sun goes down

Decking Materials We Work With

We work with premium decking products built to last, including:

• Eva-Last decking — a composite bamboo product known for exceptional durability and a natural look
• TimberTech Advanced PVC decking — one of the top performing composite decking lines available, with industry-leading warranties
• Westbury railing systems — premium aluminum railing that looks great and holds up to New England weather
• Owens Corning composite framing — engineered composite framing that outperforms pressure treated lumber in longevity and stability
• Steel framing — the most durable framing option available for decks that need to last

Why Framing Matters as Much as Decking

This is something most homeowners don't think about — and most contractors don't talk about.

When you invest in a premium composite or PVC deck board with a 30-year, 50-year, or lifetime warranty, putting it on a pressure treated frame with a 15-year lifespan doesn't make sense. The decking will outlast the frame, and you'll be tearing it apart long before the boards wear out.

At CBR we match the framing system to the decking. For composite and PVC decking we use composite or steel framing systems that are built to last as long as the boards on top of them. When we do use pressure treated framing, we use joist tape on every joist to protect the wood and dramatically extend the lifespan of the frame.

It's a detail most contractors skip. We don't.

Flashing and Ledger Details — Where Decks Fail

The connection between a deck and your house is the most critical detail in the entire build. Improper flashing at the ledger board is one of the leading causes of deck failure and water damage to the home — and it's something a lot of contractors get wrong.

We take ledger attachment and flashing seriously on every project. We also use helical piers for footing systems where appropriate, providing a stable, frost-protected foundation that won't shift or settle over time.

What to Expect

Every CBR deck and porch project follows a clear process:

- Initial consultation — we learn about how you want to use the space, your style preferences, and your budget

- Design phase — we develop a layout and material plan that works for your home and your outdoor living goals

- Permitting — we handle all necessary permits

- Construction — our own crews handle the build from footings through final details

- Client portal access — full visibility into progress and scheduling throughout

What Does a Deck or Porch Cost in Western MA?

A smaller ground level deck starts around $20,000. A smaller covered porch starts around $30,000. Larger structures, elevated decks, screened porches, pergolas, and premium material selections will all increase the investment.

At CBR we don't throw out estimates. We go through the design process with you first, then give you a firm price based on exactly what you've chosen — no surprises when construction starts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What decking material do you recommend?

It depends on your budget, style, and how much maintenance you want to do. TimberTech Advanced PVC and Eva-Last are both excellent products with strong warranties and minimal maintenance requirements. We'll walk you through the options during the design process and help you find the right fit.

Do composite decks really last longer than pressure treated?

Yes — and the framing matters just as much as the boards. Premium composite and PVC decking products carry 30-year, 50-year, and even lifetime warranties. Pairing them with composite or steel framing means the entire structure is built to last, not just the surface.

Do you build screened porches?

Yes. Screened porches are one of our most popular outdoor projects — they give you all the benefits of outdoor living without the bugs, and they extend the usable season significantly in Western MA.

Do you handle permits for decks and porches?

Yes. CBR manages the entire permitting process.

How long does a deck or porch build take?

Most deck projects take between 3 and 6 weeks depending on scope. Covered and screened porches take longer due to the roofing and framing involved. We'll give you a realistic timeline during the design phase.

Ready to Talk About Your Outdoor Space?

We serve homeowners throughout Western MA including Hadley, Northampton, Amherst, Belchertown, Holyoke, and surrounding communities in the Pioneer Valley. Reach out for a free, no-pressure consultation — no sales pitch, just a conversation about what's possible.