The DeckPros Journal

Decks, pergolas & outdoor living, well thought through.

Material guides, design ideas, and project stories from the team building decks across Greater Indianapolis.

Wide golden-hour deck: 4-burner grill on raised paver, composite decking, pergola with heat shield, windscreen, propane tank, no people.
Blog

Grill Placement and Clearances on a Deck

Can you put a grill on your deck in Indianapolis without scorching boards or filling the house with smoke? Here's a practical plan for clearances, surfaces, and pergola safety.

Aerial three-quarter view of finished Ipe deck under mature maples in Indianapolis at golden hour, open under-deck ventilation and cantilevered framing.
Blog

Building a Deck Under Mature Trees: Sap, Leaves and Shade

Dealing with sap, leaf litter, and shade on a deck under trees in Indianapolis? Here's what real homeowners learn about building an Ipe deck that holds up — and what to do about roots, drainage, and maintenance.

Wide exterior of two-story Indianapolis deck with leaning upper rail, fallen limb, shifted post, cracked footing, golden hour light.
Blog

Inspecting a Deck After an Indiana Storm

That post-storm wobble might be more than cosmetic. Here's how to check your deck for hidden damage from wind, hail, and water—and when to call a pro in Indianapolis.

Top-of-stairs raised deck with black aluminum gate swinging away, composite boards, reinforced hinge post, golden hour, pool beyond.
Blog

Deck Gates for Toddlers and Dogs

A deck gate can stop a toddler or dog from tumbling down stairs. Here's what Indianapolis homeowners need to know about materials, hardware, code, and getting it installed right.

Wide-angle south-facing composite deck at golden hour with sharp sun/shade line and adjacent faded vs unfaded boards.
Blog

Why South-Facing Deck Boards Fade First

Wondering why one side of your composite deck fades faster than the other? We break down UV, color choice, and what Indianapolis homeowners can do.