A deck is only as good as the materials it’s made of. You can have the strongest crew and the best design, but if the footings shift, the framing warps, or the decking fades and cracks, you’ll feel it every time you step outside.
At Woodland Decking, we choose materials that perform in Minnesota’s climate and look good for years—not just the day we pack up our tools. Here’s a closer look at the options we recommend, and why we use them.
Minnesota’s freeze/thaw cycle is tough on anything that goes into the ground. That’s why we take foundations seriously and give you options that fit your site.
Helical Piers – Engineered steel screw anchors that we torque into the ground until they hit stable bearing. Great for poor soils, tighter access areas, and when you want instant load-bearing capacity. No waiting for concrete to cure, and they’re engineered to resist movement.
Diamond Piers – Pre-engineered footing systems that transfer load through steel pins driven at angles into the soil. Faster to install than concrete, reliable in freeze/thaw conditions, and code-approved across Minnesota.
Both options are designed to keep your deck from shifting year after year. We’ll recommend the right foundation based on your soil conditions, deck size, and city requirements.
We don’t use just any wood for the skeleton of your deck. The quality of your frame is what keeps everything square, sturdy, and feeling solid underfoot.
#1 Southern Yellow Pine – A high-grade structural lumber with fewer knots and straighter lines than standard #2 lumber. It’s strong, widely available, and pressure-treated for durability.
KDAT (Kiln-Dried After Treatment) Lumber – Pressure-treated lumber that’s dried after chemical treatment, which means less shrinking, twisting, and warping as it seasons. KDAT gives you a straighter, more stable frame right from the start.
Choosing better-grade lumber costs a bit more up front but saves you headaches later. A frame that stays square and tight means straighter decking lines, quieter boards, and a longer-lasting structure overall.
This is where things get personal—because the decking is what you see and feel every day. We install premium materials from Deckorators and Azek (TimberTech).
Deckorators Mineral-Based Composite Decking
Made with mineral filler, which makes boards ultra-stable in heat and cold (no major expansion or contraction).
Stain- and fade-resistant, with excellent traction—even in winter.
Options like Voyage and Vista collections offer rich colors and variegation that look like natural hardwoods without the maintenance.
Azek PVC Decking (TimberTech’s Premium Line)
100% PVC core, which means zero organic material—no rot, mold, or mildew.
Cooler underfoot than many composites in full sun.
Lifetime limited warranty and 50-year fade/stain warranty.
Smooth, clean finishes that feel like luxury decking.
Both brands give you a low-maintenance deck that resists fading, staining, and warping. The right choice comes down to look, feel, and budget—but whichever you pick, you’ll get performance that outlasts standard composites or wood.
Railings are more than a safety requirement—they frame your deck and set the tone. We offer a mix of durable, modern options:
Kadenz Aluminum Railings – Straight lines, low maintenance, and powder-coated finishes that don’t rust or peel. Perfect for clean, modern looks with maximum durability.
Cable Rail Systems – Sleek, horizontal lines that give you unobstructed views without the bulk of traditional balusters. Popular for lake homes and contemporary designs.
Glass Rail Panels – For a wide-open look and wind protection. We use tempered, code-approved glass that’s secure and low-maintenance.
We install all systems to manufacturer specs for strength and longevity. That means posts stay firm, lines stay straight, and railings feel solid—not wobbly.
A deck should work just as well at night as it does during the day. We offer several ways to light your space safely and beautifully:
Custom Integrated LEDs – Our specialty. We build lighting right into the top rail or stair risers for a seamless look and safer navigation after dark.
Post Cap and Under-Rail Lighting – Subtle glows that highlight edges without glare.
Smart Controls – Timers, photocells, or app/voice control so your lights fit your lifestyle.
Because we plan wiring from the start, everything is hidden and protected—you won’t see cords or conduits cluttering the design.
