Planning a New Deck? Here’s When to Order & How to Get on the Schedule

As soon as the weather begins to warm up in Michigan, outdoor living projects move to the top of the list. One of the most popular upgrades homeowners plan each year is a new deck, whether it’s expanding an existing outdoor living space or building from the ground up.

What many homeowners don’t realize is that decking season starts long before summer. If you’re considering TimberTech decking or other composite decking materials, knowing when to begin planning, when to order deck materials, and how to secure your place on a deck builder’s schedule can make the difference between enjoying your deck all summer or waiting until fall.

Here’s what to know before starting your Michigan deck project.

Start Planning Your Deck Early

The biggest mistake homeowners make with deck installation projects is waiting until late spring to begin the process. By that time, many Michigan deck builders are booking several weeks or even months out. Lead times for composite decking and railing systems can also impact your start date.

Ideally, homeowners should begin conversations in late winter or very early spring if they hope to build in late spring or early summer. Early planning allows time for deck design decisions, material selection, permitting if required, and scheduling your contractor.

If you want to maximize your outdoor living space this summer, planning ahead is essential.

Choose Your Deck Builder Before Ordering Deck Materials

Before ordering decking materials, it’s important to have a qualified contractor lined up to ensure accurate measurements, proper installation, and a smooth project timeline. If you already have a deck builder, we’re happy to coordinate directly with them to make sure material selections and delivery stay on track.

Don’t have a contractor yet? Bolyard Lumber & Design works closely with a trusted network of experienced decking professionals. We can connect you with the right contractor based on your project scope, design goals, and budget. Our team helps match you with builders who understand premium products like TimberTech decking and can execute your vision properly.

This ensures your project starts with the right materials, and the right team, from day one.

Understand Lead Times for TimberTech and Composite Decking

While pressure-treated lumber may be readily available, many TimberTech decking collections, specialty colors, deck railing systems, and custom features have longer lead times, especially during peak decking season in Michigan.

TimberTech composite decking is a popular choice because of its durability, low maintenance, and long-term performance. However, premium colors and coordinating railing systems often require advanced ordering.

Placing your TimberTech decking order several weeks in advance protects your project timeline and ensures you have access to the full range of product options.

Get on Your Builder’s Schedule Early

Deck builders in Birmingham, Rochester Hills, and throughout Metro Detroit fill their schedules quickly once temperatures rise. Even if you are still finalizing your composite decking selections, securing a tentative installation window early can help avoid long delays.

Ask your deck contractor:

• When are you currently booking deck installations?

• How long will the decking project take once started?

• When do TimberTech materials need to be ordered to stay on schedule?

• Are permits required for this deck build?

These conversations help prevent scheduling conflicts and keep your Michigan decking project moving forward.

Avoid Common Decking Delays

The most common setbacks in deck construction include:

• Waiting too long to begin deck design

• Delayed composite decking selections

• Not accounting for permit timelines

• Ordering deck railing or lighting systems too late

Starting early gives homeowners more flexibility and prevents rushed material decisions.

“Deck projects always feel seasonal, but the planning shouldn’t be,” says Jason Vallus of Bolyard Lumber & Design. “The earlier homeowners start the conversation about TimberTech decking and installation, the more smoothly the project runs and the more likely they are to enjoy their deck for the full season.”

At Bolyard Lumber & Design, we supply TimberTech decking, composite deck materials, railing systems, and expert guidance for homeowners and deck builders throughout Birmingham, Rochester Hills, and Southeast Michigan.

Learn more about TimberTech decking and deck materials at www.BolyardLumber.com or visit our locations in Birmingham and Rochester Hills to start planning your outdoor living space with confidence.