Deck & Pergola Design and installation

Adding a deck or pergola to your home can completely change how you enjoy your outdoor space — offering a place to unwind, entertain, or simply take in the beauty of North Carolina’s seasons. Whether you're dreaming of a cozy backyard retreat or a larger entertaining area, getting the design and materials right is key to a space that looks beautiful and lasts for years.

What to Consider Before Building a Deck or Pergola

Planning is everything. A smart design doesn’t just look good — it fits your home, your lifestyle, and the local climate. Here are a few important things to think about before you build:

• Purpose: Will this space be used for dining, grilling, hosting friends, or quiet relaxation?

• Sun and Shade: North Carolina summers can be intense. Will you need a covered area, built-in pergola, or retractable shade?

• Materials: Composite, pressure-treated wood, or hardwood? Each has its own look, feel, maintenance level, and price.

• Placement: Consider how your deck or pergola connects to the home. Is it off the kitchen, near the pool, or in a quiet corner of the yard?

• Budget and Timeline: Prices vary widely depending on size, materials, and features. Setting clear goals early helps guide the entire process.

Deck Materials: Pros and Cons

Your material choice impacts everything — cost, durability, and how much maintenance is required. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Composite Decking

• Low maintenance, long lifespan, and modern look

• Resistant to fading, splintering, and moisture

• Higher upfront cost, but fewer repairs over time

Pressure-Treated Wood

• Budget-friendly and widely available

• Classic look that blends well with natural landscapes

• Requires regular sealing and maintenance to prevent warping or rot

Hardwoods (like Ipe or Cedar)

• Premium feel with natural resistance to weather

• Stunning grain and rich tones

• More expensive and may require specialized installation

In the Triangle’s mix of humidity and clay-rich soil, proper framing and drainage are essential no matter what material you choose.

Why Add a Pergola?

Pergolas are a beautiful way to define a space while adding shade and style. They can:

• Create a natural extension of your deck or patio

• Support vines or outdoor lighting

• Offer partial shade without fully blocking the sky

• Make outdoor dining areas more comfortable in summer

Whether freestanding or attached to your home, pergolas offer both function and a design boost — and can be built using wood, vinyl, or aluminum depending on your style and maintenance preferences.

When’s the Best Time to Build in Wake County?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to build decks and pergolas in Raleigh, Cary, and Apex. Temperatures are mild, humidity is manageable, and there are fewer delays from storms or extreme heat. That said, winter projects can sometimes get started faster due to shorter contractor waitlists — just keep in mind that cold snaps can affect materials and curing times.

Design Tips for North Carolina Decks and Pergolas

• Blend with your home’s architecture: Choose colors and materials that complement your siding, roofline, or landscaping.

• Think about traffic flow: Leave enough room for furniture, footpaths, and open space.

• Plan for add-ons: Want to include built-in seating, outdoor lighting, or even a hot tub? Make sure the design leaves room for upgrades.

• Account for the view: Whether it’s your garden, pool, or a wooded backdrop, orient the layout to frame the best parts of your property.

Maintenance Tips for Triangle Homeowners

Even the best-built outdoor spaces need a little upkeep:

• Composite decks should be washed a couple of times a year with soap and water.

• Wood decks need to be sealed or stained every 1–2 years depending on exposure.

• Pergolas may require seasonal cleaning, especially if they support climbing plants or have built-in lighting.

Ready to Design Your Dream Outdoor Space?

At Ponti Landscapes, we help homeowners across Raleigh, Cary, Apex, and surrounding areas create outdoor living spaces that are both beautiful and built to last. Whether you're looking to build from scratch or upgrade what you already have, our team brings the creativity, craftsmanship, and care to make it happen.

Let’s build something great together.