Custom Deck Design & Construction in Manhasset, NY
Built to handle Nassau County’s cold winters, salty air, and those perfect summer weekends when you just want to be outside.
In Manhasset, a great deck isn’t just a platform with railings. It’s where your day starts with coffee in the quiet, and where it ends under soft lighting with family, neighbors, and food on the grill. We design decks that look right behind local Colonials, Capes, and Split-Level/Ranch homes, so the new space feels like it’s always been part of the house. Whether you’re in Strathmore, Flower Hill, or Plandome, we help you choose materials that fit your style and cut down on upkeep, so you’re not spending your weekends sanding and staining. And if your project falls into a category where, in some cases, permits may be required, we help guide the process with the Town of North Hempstead Department of Buildings so paperwork and inspections don’t become your headache. Homeowners also like that we’ve earned ratings like 5.0 on Google and 94% on Facebook-because trust matters when you’re building something attached to your home.
- Licensed & insured in Nassau County (License: H1860760000)
- Over 39 years of deck-building experience across Long Island backyards
- Help with streamlined permitting through the Town of North Hempstead Department of Buildings at 210 Plandome Road, Manhasset, NY 11030
- Certified Trex Platinum & TimberTech Pro Installers for clean installs and strong warranties
Transforming Outdoor Living for Manhasset Homeowners
A custom deck changes how your home feels day to day. Suddenly there’s a real place for breakfast outside, a spot for the kids to spread out, and enough room to host without everyone crowding into the kitchen. We build decks that feel like an extension of the house, not an add-on-wide steps that invite you out, railings that don’t block the view, and layouts that make sense for real life.
Manhasset homes have character. A classic Colonial might call for a wider, symmetrical deck and clean railing lines. A Cape often benefits from a cozy landing with built-in seating and lighting that makes it feel warm at night. Split-Level/Ranch homes can be perfect for multi-level designs that follow the yard instead of fighting it. And because so many families in this area love to stay close on weekends, we design with “staycation” in mind-easy flow for parties, space for a dining table, and lighting that keeps the deck usable after sunset.
We’re also mindful of how people move around town. If you’re coming in from Northern Boulevard (NY-25A) or heading up Plandome Road, you’ve seen how every property has its own shape and grade. We plan for that from day one. Most projects are completed in 1-2 days, so you’re not living through a drawn-out construction zone all week.
Natural Wood Decking Choices
Wood decking still has a look you can’t fake. It feels warm underfoot, it smells like summer, and it matches the classic style you see throughout Nassau County. Cedar is a popular choice when homeowners want a lighter, natural look that ages gracefully. Mahogany is a richer, upscale option with deep color and a smooth feel-great when you want the deck to look like fine outdoor furniture. Pressure-treated lumber is often chosen for value and strength, especially when you want a traditional wood deck at a more budget-friendly price.
That said, wood is honest work. With our humidity, shade from mature trees, and the occasional salty coastal air, wood needs regular care to keep it looking sharp. That usually means cleaning and re-sealing on a routine schedule, plus keeping an eye on high-traffic areas like stairs and around grills. Many Manhasset homeowners still choose wood for its classic style, for matching an older home, or because they enjoy the natural look and don’t mind the upkeep. We’ll walk you through what it really takes so there are no surprises after the build.
Trex, TimberTech & PVC Decking Options
If you want the “always looks clean” kind of deck, composite and PVC are usually the answer. These boards are made to handle sun, rain, and temperature swings without constant scraping and staining. They’re designed to keep their color longer, resist common outdoor spills, and feel comfortable for bare feet-especially important when kids are running in and out all summer.
Trex and TimberTech are two of the top choices we install because they offer strong performance and great style options. Trex has several lines, so you can match the look and budget you want. Their higher-end collections have the most detailed color blending, while other lines focus on value and easy care. TimberTech also offers multiple levels, with premium options that bring a more natural, hardwood-inspired look and strong long-term coverage. Depending on the exact product line, fade-and-stain coverage can range from about 25 years up to 50 years, which is a big reason homeowners choose these materials for long-term peace of mind.
PVC decking is another option some Manhasset homeowners prefer, especially when the deck gets a lot of sun or you want the lowest possible maintenance. PVC doesn’t absorb moisture like wood, and it tends to be very resistant to stains. If you’re deciding between composite, PVC, and natural wood, we’ll show you samples and talk through how each one will look behind your home and how it fits your daily routine.
Why We Use KDAT Lumber for the Substructure
Your deck is only as good as what’s holding it up. That’s why we offer KDAT framing for the substructure. KDAT stands for kiln-dried lumber, and ours is also pre-stained brown. The big win is stability-kiln-dried framing is far less likely to twist and warp compared to typical wet framing lumber. It also looks cleaner from day one.
This is a huge benefit for second-story decks where you can see the framing from below. Instead of raw, blotchy lumber, you get a neat, finished look that makes the whole project feel higher-end. It’s one of those “small details” that makes a big difference every time you step into the yard. Decks Unique is the only decking company on Long Island offering this option, and it comes with a limited lifetime transferable warranty.
Choosing the Right Decking Materials
Picking the right deck comes down to how you live. Trex Signature and Trex Transcend are great when you want top-tier style and long-term coverage. Trex Select can be a smart middle-ground, and Trex Enhance is popular when you want low maintenance at a more approachable price point. TimberTech has similar “good, better, best” options, and we help you compare them in plain language-how they feel, how they look in sun vs shade, and what kind of care they’ll need over time.
We also explain what many contractors skip: framing matters. KDAT framing typically outperforms standard framing because it’s drier and more stable, which helps the deck stay straighter and look more finished-especially on elevated builds. If you want, we can price out a few combinations so you can see what you get at each level.
Custom Features for Comfort, Style & Safety
The right features make your deck feel like an outdoor room. For railings, many Manhasset homeowners like a clean cocktail rail for entertaining, cable rails when they want an open view, or vinyl rails for a crisp, low-maintenance look that stays bright. We’ll help you choose a style that matches your home’s architecture and feels solid in the hand.
Lighting is another upgrade that pays off every single night. LED stair risers help prevent trips, especially when guests are coming and going after dusk. Post cap lights add a soft glow that makes the space feel calm and finished-perfect for winding down outside with a drink or a book. We can also add gentle ambient lighting for seating areas so the deck feels welcoming without being harsh.
For comfort, shade makes a big difference. With Manhasset’s gently rolling coastal terrain, we often design shade structures and layouts that work with the grade-so the deck sits naturally in the yard, not awkwardly above it. The goal is simple: more comfort, safer movement, and a backyard that looks beautiful in daylight and at night.
Visit Our Commack Showroom
If you’re serious about building the right deck, seeing materials in person is a game-changer. At our Commack showroom, you can walk on full-size deck displays, compare railing systems side-by-side, and watch lighting demos so you know exactly what “soft evening light” looks like before you buy it. We also keep a wide range of material samples on hand, including Trex and TimberTech options, plus real wood choices for homeowners who love that natural look.
Many Manhasset homeowners make the trip because it’s a convenient drive along major North Shore routes, and it saves time and second-guessing. Instead of picking from tiny swatches online, you can touch the boards, see real color variation, and sit down with a designer who does this every day. It’s a relaxed, no-pressure way to make confident decisions and leave with a plan that fits your home.
Awards & Professional Recognition
Awards aren’t about bragging rights-on a deck project, they’re a shortcut to trust. They show you the company you’re hiring has been checked out by respected industry groups, judged on real work, and recognized for consistency. Decks Unique has earned these honors by building decks the right way: strong framing, clean details, safe railings, and crews that respect your property. For homeowners, it’s reassuring because it reduces the “unknowns.” You’re not hoping for a good result-you’re choosing a team with a track record recognized by NARI, NADRA, the Remodeler 500, Trex (Platinum), TimberTech (Pro), and the BBB.
NARI
Recognition from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry highlights professionalism and quality building practices. For you, it means you’re hiring a contractor who’s measured against real standards, not just marketing claims.
NADRA
NADRA is a leading deck and outdoor living association. Their recognition matters because it points to builders who stay current on safety, installation methods, and responsible construction.
Remodeler 500
This list recognizes established remodeling companies with proven performance and customer demand. For homeowners, it’s a sign you’re working with a stable company that’s built systems to deliver projects smoothly.
Trex Platinum
Platinum status is reserved for contractors with high experience installing Trex products. It can also help you qualify for enhanced labor coverage on certain Trex lines when installed by a Platinum builder.
TimberTech Pro
TimberTech Pro recognition signals product knowledge and installation experience. Homeowners benefit from cleaner finishes, better detailing, and an install that aligns with the manufacturer’s requirements.
BBB Accreditation
BBB accreditation is about trust, accountability, and doing right by customers. It matters because you’re choosing a company that’s committed to fair practices and responsive communication.
Our Workmanship & Product Guarantees
We back our builds with a Decks Unique lifetime workmanship guarantee, because the install matters just as much as the boards you choose. On the product side, Trex offers a 10-year labor warranty on Signature and Transcend when installed by Trex Platinum builders like us. Trex also offers fade and stain coverage that varies by line: 50 years for Signature/Transcend, 35 years for Select, and 25 years for Enhance Naturals/Basic. TimberTech decking includes fade and stain warranties that typically range from 25-50 years depending on the collection. If you go with natural wood, we include a lifetime decay guarantee for the wood deck structure. And for homeowners who choose KDAT framing, there’s a limited lifetime transferable warranty-another layer of protection that helps you feel good about your investment.
Built for Manhasset: Local Engineering Considerations
Manhasset decks need more than good looks. Between the coastal exposure, changing seasons, and the way properties sit on the land, a deck has to be planned like a permanent part of the home. We take the time to design for strength, drainage, and long-term stability, so the deck stays solid and comfortable year after year.
Soil & Footings
In Manhasset you’ll often see Sandy Loam, Silt Loam, and Clay (a dense mix of Sand, Silt, & Clay). Each soil type holds water and supports weight differently, so footing size and depth matter. We plan footings to reach the local frost line of 42 inches, helping prevent seasonal movement that can cause settling, wobbles, or cracked concrete.
Wind & Uplift Protection
Deck connections need to be designed to resist strong wind events up to 120 mph. We use reinforced connections and hurricane-rated hardware where appropriate, so the deck is tied together as a system-ledger, posts, beams, and rails working as one.
Permits & Inspections
In some cases, permits may be required, depending on the size, height, and scope of the project. We help guide the entire process with the Town of North Hempstead Department of Buildings, including the paperwork and the inspection steps, so you’re not left trying to figure it out on your own.
Composite vs Wood Comparison Table
| What You Care About | Composite (Trex/TimberTech) | PVC Decking | Natural Wood (Cedar/Mahogany/Pressure-Treated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekend maintenance | Typically low; wash and basic care | Very low; great for easy cleanup | Higher; needs periodic sealing/staining |
| Look and feel | Rich colors with a consistent finish | Crisp, clean look; very uniform | Classic, natural grain and warmth |
| Stain resistance | Strong resistance for everyday spills | Often the best choice for stain resistance | More prone to staining without protection |
| Long-term color | Designed to hold color well over time | Designed for long-term stability and color | Will weather; can be refreshed with maintenance |
| Best for | Families who want beauty with less work | Homeowners who want the lowest upkeep possible | Homeowners who love tradition or want a wood budget option |
How We Build Decks Designed to Perform for Years
A deck should feel sturdy, drain well, and stay clean-looking around the edges. That’s why we focus on the details that protect the structure. We often use joist tape to help shield the tops of framing boards from trapped moisture, which can reduce wear over time. At the house connection, we install ledger flashing to help direct water away from the framing where the deck meets your home-one of the most important areas to get right.
For finishes, picture framing is a popular upgrade that gives the deck a clean border and a more custom, built-in look. It’s the kind of detail you notice every time you step outside, especially on larger decks. We also select fasteners that make sense for Nassau County conditions, including stainless or ceramic-coated options where appropriate, to help reduce rust streaks and keep hardware performing. None of these steps are “extra fluff.” They’re practical choices that help your deck stay tighter, look better, and age more gracefully.
Deck Pricing in Manhasset
Deck pricing isn’t just about square footage. Two decks can be the same size and have very different costs based on what’s built into them. Material choice is a big driver-wood vs composite vs PVC-along with railing style, stair counts, lighting, and whether the deck is ground-level or elevated. Yard layout matters too. Elevation changes, landings, and multi-level designs take more planning and labor, but they can also make the space feel twice as usable.
We’ll help you compare options and build a plan that fits your home and your budget. Financing is available for qualified homeowners, which can make it easier to choose the layout and features you really want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Manhasset?
In some cases, permits may be required based on the deck’s height, size, and scope. We help guide the process with the Town of North Hempstead Department of Buildings so you know what applies to your specific plan before we build.
How fast can you build a deck once we approve the design?
After materials and scheduling are set, most projects are completed in 1-2 days. Larger or more complex designs with multiple levels, stairs, or specialty features can take longer, but we’ll give you a clear timeline up front.
My backyard slopes a bit-can a deck still look “natural” with the yard?
Yes. Many Manhasset properties sit on gently rolling coastal terrain, so we often design steps, landings, and post layouts that follow the grade instead of forcing a flat look. The goal is a deck that feels like it belongs there and’s comfortable to walk on.
What’s the real difference between Trex, TimberTech, PVC, and wood?
Trex and TimberTech are low-maintenance boards designed for long-term outdoor use, while PVC is often chosen when homeowners want the easiest cleanup and very strong stain resistance. Wood has a classic look and feel but needs more regular care in our climate. We’ll show you samples and talk through what fits your style and how much upkeep you want.
Why would I upgrade to KDAT framing if the decking is what I see?
KDAT framing is kiln-dried and pre-stained brown, which helps the structure stay straighter and look cleaner. It’s especially valuable on second-story decks where you can see the framing from below, and it also includes a limited lifetime transferable warranty.
Your Local Deck Builder Serving Manhasset
From backyard upgrades in Strathmore to outdoor entertaining spaces in Flower Hill and Plandome, we build decks that fit the way Manhasset families actually live. You’ll get straightforward guidance, clean craftsmanship, and a team that knows the local process. If you’ve seen ratings like 5.0 on Google and 5.0 on Houzz, that’s the kind of steady feedback we aim for-job after job.
Contact Us for a Free Quote
Call Us for a Free Quote
Service Areas
Decks Unique proudly builds custom outdoor living spaces throughout Manhasset and nearby neighborhoods across Nassau County, including nearby ZIP codes 11020, 11030.
