Custom deck builders serving Harford, Baltimore, and Cecil County, Maryland. Trex Pro Platinum installation plus other premium composite and wood options, designed for the way you actually use your outdoor space.
4.9 stars on Google•101 Google reviews•MHIC #91686
About Our Decks
Decks designed for how Maryland actually lives
We've been building decks across Maryland for over a decade, with 30+ years of outdoor living expertise behind every project. We're a Trex Pro Platinum contractor, which puts us in the top 1% of Trex installers nationally, and we also build with other leading composite brands and traditional wood when that's the right fit. We don't do cookie-cutter deck designs, every deck we build is custom-designed for the homeowner, the home's architecture, and how the space will actually be used.
Trex Pro Platinum certified installation (top 1% nationally)
Multiple composite brands and tiers available, plus traditional wood decks
Engineered for Maryland snow load, wind load, and code requirements
Add on-demand shade
Want shade on your new deck without giving up the open sky? A motorized retractable awning extends over the deck at the touch of a button and rolls away when you want full sun. See our Alutech SunShield retractable awnings.
Why Custom Design & Build
Top 1% of Trex installers in the country
Trex Pro Platinum
Top 1% of Trex installers nationally. Manufacturer-backed warranties and factory-trained installation.
Custom Design
Every deck is custom-designed for your home, your space, and how you'll use it. No cookie-cutter templates.
Built to Last Decades
Premium composite materials with up to 50-year material warranties. Real durability, not seasonal repairs.
Integrated Features
Lighting, built-in seating, planters, pergolas, and outdoor kitchens, planned and installed as part of the build.
Recent Projects
A few of our recent custom decks builds
Investment Guide
What does this typically cost?
$20,000 to $80,000
Final pricing depends on your specific design, materials, and site conditions.
Entry
200 to 300 sq ft Trex Enhance, single level, standard railings. Starting around $20,000.
Mid-tier
350 to 500 sq ft Trex Select, integrated lighting, premium railings. Around $35,000 to $50,000.
Premium
500+ sq ft Trex Transcend, multi-level, custom features (lighting, seating, pergola). $55,000 to $80,000+.
Composite decks last 25 to 50 years with virtually no maintenance. Wood decks need staining or sealing every 1 to 3 years and typically last 10 to 15 years. The upfront cost is higher, but the lifetime cost is lower, and the look is consistent year after year.
What's the difference between Trex tiers?
Trex Enhance is the entry tier with a 25-year warranty. Trex Select is mid-tier with better color options and a richer look. Trex Transcend and Signature are the premium lines with 50-year warranties, the most realistic wood-grain texture, and the widest color range.
Do I need a permit for a deck in Maryland?
Yes. Most Maryland counties require a permit for any deck more than 30 inches off the ground or larger than 200 sq ft. We handle permitting as part of our service.
How long does a deck take to build?
Most decks take 1 to 2 weeks of actual build time. From contract to completion, including permitting, expect 4 to 8 weeks.
Can you build on top of my existing structure?
Sometimes. Resurfacing an existing deck (replacing the boards but keeping the frame) works if the frame is structurally sound. We inspect during design consultation. In many cases, full replacement is more cost-effective and longer-lasting.
What about lighting and electrical?
We integrate lighting, fans, and outlets into the deck during the build. Common options include post lights, stair lights, undercap rail lighting, and recessed lights for shaded areas.
Are railings included?
Yes. All our deck quotes include railings. We offer composite, aluminum, cable, and glass options. Railing choice is one of the biggest visual decisions for the deck.
Who are the best deck builders in Harford County?
Look for a builder that is fully licensed in Maryland, has real manufacturer credentials, and a long track record of local work. Ask for the MHIC number, verify their reviews, and confirm they design and build in-house rather than subcontracting the whole job. Custom Design & Build is licensed under MHIC #91686, based in Fallston, has 30+ years of outdoor living experience, and holds a 4.9 stars across 101 Google reviews. We are also a Trex Pro Platinum contractor, which puts us in the top 1% of Trex installers nationally.
Do you build decks in Baltimore County and Cecil County?
Yes. We build custom decks across Harford, Baltimore, and Cecil County, including Bel Air, Forest Hill, Fallston, Aberdeen, Havre de Grace, Joppa, Jarrettsville, Edgewood, Towson, Cockeysville, Perry Hall, White Marsh, Elkton, North East, and Chesapeake City.
What Homeowners Say
Real feedback from Maryland homeowners
"Mark was incredibly patient, walked us through every step of the process, and delivered a dream deck that exceeded our expectations. The deck was completed ahead of schedule. His crew was hard working, meticulous, and respectful."
Marsha Cole
Verified Google Review
"We couldn't be happier with the beautiful deck and porch roof Custom Design and Build completed for us in Forest Hill. Their craftsmanship is top-notch, and they were always clear and consistent with communication."
Kristen Volz, Forest Hill MD
Verified Google Review
"Mark was fantastic to work with from start to finish. He's incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything clearly. The entire experience was smooth, professional, and exceeded our expectations."
Start with a free phone conversation. We'll learn about your project, answer your questions, and help you understand what's possible. No pressure, no high-pressure sales tactics.