Who Builds Composite Decks in the Des Moines Area?

Right Roofing & Siding builds composite decks across the Des Moines area, along with new wood decks, deck replacements and repairs, and founder Ryan Johnson explained how his team designs them on Episode 14 of the Right at Home podcast.

The company works from its office in Urbandale, just northwest of Des Moines, and serves homeowners in Ankeny, Johnston, West Des Moines and the rest of the metro. Its deck installation and repair services cover composite and pressure-treated wood, from a new build to recovering an old deck.

In Episode 14, "Composite Decks: More Than Just a Deck," which aired October 20, 2026, host Mike Downer talked with Ryan about composite deck design, maintenance, durability and long-term value.

Why Is a Composite Deck More Than Extra Outdoor Space?

Because a well-designed deck becomes another part of the house, Ryan said, a space families can use every day for as much as nine months of the year.

Homeowners might use their decks for morning coffee, family gatherings, grilling or watching television outdoors. The possibilities depend on how they want to spend their time.

"A deck isn't just something you put behind your house. When it's designed well, it becomes another part of your home's living space," Ryan explained.

How Does Right Roofing & Siding Design a Composite Deck?

The design process is fairly simple and quick, Ryan said: the team sketches and measures the existing deck, talks through railing, layout and shade options, and brings in a designer for a visualization when the project needs one.

Many projects are a recover, where homeowners tired of staining, painting and replacing boards move the deck surface to composite. Others require significant changes to the layout, railings or overall structure.

Matching the Existing Exterior

A composite deck should tie into the home's siding, trim, roofing colors and landscaping.

Ryan explained that homeowners can choose different decking colors, picture-frame borders, modern railings and multiple elevations to create a cohesive appearance.

Ryan said cable-style railing is the most popular trend right now.

Managing Sun Exposure and Comfort

Deck orientation can significantly influence comfort.

Ryan noted that west-facing decks often get intense afternoon sun. He suggests a lighter color there, and many composite lines now offer cool-series colors designed to absorb less heat.

Additional features, including pergolas, adjustable shades, roofing and screened enclosures, can make outdoor spaces more comfortable.

Can You See the Deck Before It Is Built?

Yes. Ryan's team brings 2D or 3D digital mock-ups, depending on how complex the deck is, so homeowners can see the layout and colors before they commit.

For straightforward resurfacing projects, basic illustrations may be sufficient. However, projects involving new stairs, multiple elevations or major layout changes benefit from more detailed models.

"Having that 3D mock-up helps you get a real feel for what that space is going to look like," Ryan said.

How Much Maintenance Does a Composite Deck Need?

Very little, according to Ryan: you clean a composite deck once in a while, with no sanding, staining or painting.

Traditional wooden decks often require regular sanding, staining, painting and repairs. Exposure to sunlight and moisture can accelerate deterioration.

The manufacturer Trex recommends routine cleaning with soap, water and appropriate cleaning equipment for many of its composite products.

However, homeowners should follow their specific manufacturer's maintenance instructions.

Ryan said a composite deck "is going to last twenty-five years," while most wood decks his team sees start showing problems around eight years in.

Is a Composite Deck Worth the Higher Upfront Cost?

Ryan's case is that it pays back over time, because composite costs more to build but removes the upkeep bills that keep coming back with wood. "Composite decks definitely have a bigger price tag up front, but they eliminate that cost for you down the line," he said.

Mike reinforced this point by describing the ongoing upkeep on the two wood decks at his home.

For a full side-by-side on price, lifespan and upkeep, see our composite vs wood deck comparison.

Proper construction remains essential. The International Code Council outlines requirements for deck materials, structural connections and composite product installation.

Before resurfacing an existing deck, homeowners should also have its underlying structure evaluated.

What Should You Look For in a Des Moines Deck Builder?

Look for a builder who designs the deck around how you will use it, matches it to your siding, trim and roof, checks the existing framing before resurfacing, and shows you a mock-up before you sign.

Right Roofing & Siding helps homeowners in Urbandale, Ankeny, Johnston, West Des Moines and across the metro choose composite decking that complements their homes. To start, contact Right Roofing & Siding for a free consultation.

Where Can You Watch or Hear Episode 14?

Episode 14, "Composite Decks: More Than Just a Deck," is on YouTube and Apple Podcasts, where Mike Downer and Ryan Johnson talk through design choices, popular upgrades and long-term value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who builds composite decks in the Des Moines area?

Right Roofing & Siding, based in Urbandale just northwest of Des Moines, builds, replaces and repairs composite and wood decks for homeowners across the metro. Founder Ryan Johnson's team sketches and measures the space, then brings 2D or 3D mock-ups before construction.

How long does a composite deck last?

About 25 years when it is properly installed, according to Ryan Johnson, depending on the product, environmental conditions and maintenance.

Are composite decks better than wooden decks?

Composite decks generally require less maintenance, while wooden decks typically have lower upfront material costs. The best choice depends on priorities and budget.

Do composite decks require maintenance?

Yes. Composite decks need periodic cleaning and inspection, but generally don't require routine staining or painting.

Can an existing wooden deck be converted to composite?

Yes, provided the existing framing is structurally sound and suitable for the selected composite materials. Ryan said many of his deck projects are recovers like this.

Can composite decks include pergolas or roofing?

Yes. Ryan said his team can screen in a deck, put a roof over it or add a pergola with shades when the design calls for it.

Do composite decks get hot in direct sunlight?

Yes. Composite decking can become hot under direct sunlight. Lighter colors, cool-series boards and shading all help keep surface temperatures down.

Can homeowners preview their deck design before construction?

Yes. Right Roofing & Siding provides 2D drawings or 3D renderings, depending on the deck's complexity, so homeowners can see the layout, colors and features first.