Big News: Construction Kings Is Coming to the Lakeshore
This is something we’ve been wanting to announce for a while.
Construction Kings is officially expanding into Grand Haven and the surrounding lakeshore area.
Over the last few years, we’ve been steadily growing throughout West Michigan. We’ve had more and more people from Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Muskegon, and the nearby lakeshore communities reach out to us about deck projects.
Up until now, we’ve had to be somewhat selective about how far west we traveled. But we’re finally at the point where we can confidently say that the lakeshore is now part of our regular service area.
For us, this is a pretty big deal.
Why We’re Excited About Grand Haven
Grand Haven has always felt like a natural place for us to expand.
There are a lot of beautiful homes in the area, and outdoor living is a huge part of life near the lakeshore. Whether it’s grilling with family, relaxing after a long day, or having friends over during the summer, a deck becomes one of the most-used parts of the home.
We also see a lot of older decks along the lakeshore that are ready for an update. Some need to be completely rebuilt, while others still have a solid frame and may only need new decking, railing, stairs, or fascia.
That’s exactly the type of work we specialize in.
What Makes Construction Kings Different
Construction Kings is owned and operated by us, Kam Schnick and Kai DeBoer.
We’ve been friends since first grade, and the company started with the two of us taking on small side jobs together. Those side jobs eventually turned into full-time work, and since then, we’ve stayed very involved in every project we take on.
When you meet with Construction Kings, you’re meeting with the people who will actually be responsible for your deck.
We don’t send a salesperson to your house and then hand the job off to a group of subcontractors you’ve never met. One of us is involved from the first conversation to the final walkthrough, and we’re on-site throughout the build.
That’s important to us because it keeps communication simple and makes it easier to catch the small details that can easily get missed.
Deck Services Now Available Along the Lakeshore
We’re now accepting projects in Grand Haven and the surrounding area for:
- New deck construction
- Complete deck rebuilds
- Deck refacing
- PVC and composite decking
- Wood decking
- Custom stairs
- Aluminum railing
- Fascia and picture framing
- Structural repairs and upgrades
If you already have a deck, we’ll take a close look at the existing structure before recommending anything.
Sometimes a full rebuild is the right answer. Other times, the framing is still in good shape and refacing can give the deck a completely new look without tearing everything out.
We’ll explain both options honestly and help you decide what makes the most sense for your home and budget.
Decks Built for Lakeshore Weather
Anyone who lives near Lake Michigan knows the weather can be rough on outdoor materials.
Between moisture, snow, temperature swings, and strong summer sun, decks along the lakeshore need to be built with long-term durability in mind.
That’s one of the reasons we do so much work with PVC and composite decking. These materials don’t need to be stained or sealed every year, and they hold up much better than traditional wood in many situations.
One of the main products we install is Clubhouse PVC decking. We like it because it has a solid warranty, holds its color well, stays cooler than many other decking products, and is designed to handle harsh weather.
We also install Ultralox aluminum railing, which gives the deck a clean finished look without the maintenance that comes with wood railing.
The Small Details Matter
A deck can look great on the surface, but what’s underneath is just as important.
We pay close attention to the framing, beam connections, support posts, joist protection, stair construction, fascia, and finishing details.
Depending on the project, our builds may include 6×6 support posts, joist tape, cut-end sealer, post protection, picture-framed decking, finished fascia, and code-tested aluminum railing.
Most homeowners may never notice every one of those details, but they make a major difference in how the deck looks and holds up over time.
We’re Officially Scheduling Grand Haven Projects
Expanding into Grand Haven and the lakeshore area is a huge step for our company, and we’re genuinely excited to start meeting more homeowners in the area.
We’ve worked hard to build Construction Kings around quality work, honest communication, and being personally involved in every project.
Now we’re ready to bring that same approach to the lakeshore.
If you’re planning a new deck, thinking about replacing an old one, or wondering whether your existing deck can be refaced, reach out to Construction Kings.
Grand Haven, we’re officially here—and we’re ready to build your forever deck.
Big News: Construction Kings Is Now Serving Grand Haven, MI!
We’ve got some exciting news: Construction Kings is officially expanding into the Grand Haven area!
For the past few years, we’ve been building decks across Jenison, Grandville, Grand Rapids, Allendale, Hudsonville, Holland, and Coopersville — and now we’re bringing that same owner-operated, no-shortcuts approach to Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg. If you’ve been searching for a deck builder near the Lakeshore, we want to be your first call.
Why We’re Excited About Grand Haven
Grand Haven is a different kind of build. Between the beach, the channel, and neighborhoods like the Boardwalk, Stonewater, Old Towne, Southside, and Hilltop, homeowners here want decks that can handle real lakeshore conditions — humidity, big seasonal swings, and constant sun exposure — without looking or feeling cheap. That’s exactly the kind of challenge we love, and it’s a big part of why we decided now was the time to grow into this area.
What Grand Haven Homeowners Can Expect From Us
You’ll always talk to an owner. Construction Kings was founded in 2022 by Kam Schnick and Kai DeBoer, two lifelong friends running the company hands-on. No call center, no sales team, no crew you’ve never met showing up on build day. When you call (616) 502-9456, you get one of us. When you schedule a free consultation, one of us walks your property in person. And when your deck is being built, one of us is on the job site — often both.
Materials built for the water. We build with Clubhouse PVC decking — scratch-resistant, up to 30% cooler underfoot, backed by a 25-year fade and stain warranty plus a transferable lifetime limited warranty — and Ultralox aluminum railing, which won’t rust or rot the way wood and lower-grade metal can, backed by a 20-year warranty. Near the water, that durability isn’t a bonus feature. It’s the whole point.
Real inspections, not sales pitches. Every deck we look at is inspected by an actual builder, not a salesperson trying to close a deal. We check the framing and structure honestly and tell you whether you need a reface, a partial rebuild, or a full rebuild — whichever is actually true, not whichever is easiest to sell.
We handle the permit headache. Building near the water in Ottawa County means navigating site plans, setback requirements, and Michigan Residential Code, whether your project falls under the City of Grand Haven or Grand Haven Charter Township. Kai, our licensed builder, handles all of that so you don’t have to figure out township paperwork on your own.
Let’s Build Your Grand Haven Deck
We’re genuinely excited to start building relationships — and decks — in Grand Haven. If you’ve got a deck that needs a refresh, a rebuild, or you’re starting from scratch, give us a call at (616) 502-9456 or request a free consultation. One of the owners will come take a look and give you an honest plan, no pressure attached.
Welcome to the neighborhood — we can’t wait to get started.
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If you’re not sure how to choose the right deck builder for your outdoor space, check out our complete guide
If you are investing in a new outdoor living space, choosing the right deck builder in Grand Rapids matters just as much as choosing the right decking material. A beautiful deck can still become a disappointment if it is built by the wrong crew, built with the wrong methods, or rushed through without proper planning.
For homeowners in Grand Rapids and throughout West Michigan, that decision gets even more important when you are spending real money on a higher-end project. You are not just buying a place to set patio furniture. You are buying long-term safety, curb appeal, durability, and peace of mind.
So how do you separate a true professional from a company that simply knows how to sell? This guide walks through what to look for, what questions to ask, and what red flags to avoid before hiring a deck builder.
Start With This Question: Who Is Actually Doing the Work?
This is one of the most important questions a homeowner can ask, and most people do not ask it soon enough.
When you meet with a deck company, ask them plainly: Who will actually build my deck?
That question matters because there is a major difference between a company that builds with its own team and a company that sells the job, then hands it off to subcontractors you have never met. In our view, one of the biggest red flags in this industry is a company that does not clearly control who is performing the work.
A deck is not a small cosmetic project. It involves footings, framing, stair geometry, connections, guards, and code compliance. Grand Rapids also requires permits, plans, and inspections for most deck projects, and the city recommends that if a contractor is performing the work, that contractor should apply for the permit. Contractors applying for permits must be licensed with the state and registered with the city.
That is why many homeowners prefer either an owner-operated builder or a company using its own W-2 employees rather than outsourcing the build. Even when subcontracting is legal, it can create distance between the promises made during the sale and the work performed on site. That part is professional judgment, but it is an important one.
Verify Licensing, Permits, and Paperwork Before You Fall for the Sales Pitch
A polished estimate does not prove competence. Before you get impressed by a design rendering or a good salesperson, make sure the company checks the boring boxes first.
In Michigan, residential builders and maintenance and alteration contractors are licensed through LARA, and the state advises homeowners to verify a contractor’s license and get a detailed written contract covering the work, material quality, warranties, timing, total cost, and payment schedule.
For Grand Rapids projects specifically, deck permits typically require plans and inspections, including footing inspection before concrete is poured and final inspection after the deck is complete.
At minimum, ask for:
- proof of license
- proof of insurance
- who is pulling the permit
- who is performing the work
- a detailed written scope of work
- a written materials list
- a payment schedule
- a warranty explanation
If a contractor gets vague when you ask those questions, that is useful information.
A Good Deck Builder Should Talk About Structure, Not Just Surface
A lot of homeowners shop decks by color, board pattern, and railing style. Those things matter, but the structure is what determines whether your deck feels solid in year one and stays safe in year ten. Check out our inspection Guide here
The American Wood Council’s DCA 6 guide is one of the most widely referenced deck construction resources in the industry, and it is built around code-based structural guidance for residential wood deck construction. Simpson Strong-Tie’s deck resources also focus heavily on code-compliant load paths and critical connection points like ledger attachment, joist-to-beam connections, beam-to-post connections, and guard post attachment.
That means a serious deck builder should be comfortable discussing things like:
- footing size and depth
- beam and joist layout
- hardware and connectors
- stair framing
- railing attachment
- load paths
- inspections
- drainage and long-term moisture protection
If all the conversation stays focused on “what color boards do you want,” you are not talking to the right person yet.
If you are hiring a premium deck builder in Grand Rapids or anywhere in West Michigan, the company should be able to explain not just what they install, but why they install it that way.
Better deck builders do not treat materials as an afterthought. They should be able to explain the pros and cons of wood, composite, and PVC, and help you choose based on your goals, not just price.
2. Proper framing layout
The framing should be designed for the decking product being used, the spans involved, and the finished look you want. A premium deck is not just pretty on top. It feels solid underfoot.
3. Correct hardware and connection details
The deck industry puts a lot of focus on structural connections for a reason. Weak connection points are where many failures start. NADRA’s deck safety guidance emphasizes regular inspection and correction of safety issues, while Simpson’s deck guides focus on code-compliant fastening and connection methods.
4. Joist tape on framing
Joist tape is a small upgrade that can make a big difference by helping protect the tops of joists from trapped moisture. It is not magic, but it is one of those best-practice details that shows a builder is thinking beyond the day the project is finished. Decks.com notes that joist tape helps keep water from getting into framing and can reduce mold, rot, and premature deterioration.
5. Cut-end protection where needed
Any builder working with treated lumber should be thinking about exposed cuts and vulnerable areas. Stairs in particular tend to have many exposed cuts and often take the most abuse from water.
6. Strong post and beam details
A good builder should be able to explain why posts, beams, and hardware are being installed a certain way. This is not where you want guesswork.
7. Railing systems that are installed for safety first
Railing is not just a design feature. It is a safety system. Grand Rapids’ residential deck guide references code requirements for guards and opening limitations, and code-based deck resources put major emphasis on proper guard attachment. Here at Construction Kings, we recommend Ultralox Hand railing. there are other good brands out there such as
8. A plan for inspections
If the builder seems annoyed by inspections, that is a problem. Good builders expect them. PCI is normally the inspection agency around West Michigan.
Red Flags to Watch for When Comparing Deck Builders
Here are some of the biggest warning signs homeowners should pay attention to:
They will not clearly tell you who is building the deck
If the company dances around whether the work is being done in-house or subcontracted out, keep digging.
They talk more about “saving money” than building it right
There is nothing wrong with being cost-conscious. But if every solution sounds like a shortcut, you should wonder what is being skipped.
They do not want to talk about permits
In Grand Rapids, deck projects typically involve permits, plans, and inspections. A contractor who acts like permits are optional or annoying is not the one you want leading the job.
They cannot explain their framing or hardware choices
A real deck builder should be able to explain how the deck goes together.
Their estimate is vague
Michigan advises homeowners to get detailed written contracts that spell out the work, material quality, warranty, timeline, and payment schedule. If the quote is too general, that is a risk.
They sell hard but answer lightly
A confident sales process is fine. A slick one with weak answers is not.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Deck Builder
If you want to protect yourself, ask these questions before signing anything:
- Who will actually build my deck?
- Are they owners, employees, or subcontractors?
- Who is pulling the permit?
- Are you licensed and insured in Michigan?
- What inspections will this deck require?
- What hardware and fastening system are you using?
- Do you use joist tape or other moisture-protection details?
- How do you handle stair framing and exposed cut protection?
- What decking and railing materials do you recommend, and why?
- Can you give me a detailed written scope, not just a price?
A strong builder will not be bothered by these questions. They should welcome them.
Why Higher-End Homeowners Should Be Even More Careful
If you are building a premium outdoor space, the stakes are higher. Better materials cost more. Custom layouts take more planning. Detailed finishing work takes more labor. The wrong builder can waste a lot of money while still leaving you with a deck that looks good in photos for six months.
That is why higher-end homeowners in the Grand Rapids area should focus on process, not just price.
The right company should care about:
- long-term performance
- structural integrity
- code compliance
- workmanship details
- communication
- material quality
- jobsite accountability
That is also why many homeowners in West Michigan prefer owner-operated companies. When the people who sell the job are the same people deeply involved in the build, there is usually much more accountability from start to finish. That is not a code requirement. It is simply one of the clearest signs that the company takes ownership of the outcome.
Final Thoughts: Choose the Builder, Not Just the Deck
A lot of decks look good when they are brand new. The better question is how they will perform after Michigan weather, foot traffic, freeze-thaw cycles, and years of daily use.
If you are trying to choose the right deck builder in Grand Rapids, do not just compare colors, railings, and price tags. Compare who is doing the work, how the company handles permits and inspections, what structural details they prioritize, and whether they build with long-term durability in mind.
A great deck builder should be able to explain the build as confidently as they present the finished product.
And if a company plans to sell your job and hand it off to someone else without clear accountability, that alone may tell you everything you need to know.
Learn more about our company and why so many homeowners have gone with us.
Learn more about our clubhouse PVC decking.
Looking for Deck Builders Near You? Why It Pays to Start Early
If you have been searching for deck builders near you, there is a good chance you are already thinking about getting your deck redone before summer.
A lot of homeowners wait until the weather starts feeling nice, then they start looking for a deck company near you that can get the job done fast. The problem is, that is also when schedules start filling up. If you want to actually enjoy your deck this summer, starting earlier usually gives you a much better shot.
At Construction Kings, we tell homeowners the same thing every year: if you already know your deck needs work, it is smarter to start planning now instead of waiting until every local deck builder is slammed.
Why People Search for Deck Builders Near You
Usually, people are not searching that because they are casually curious. They are searching because their deck has become hard to ignore.
Maybe the boards are worn out. Maybe the railing feels dated. Maybe the whole deck just looks tired and you know it is time to do something about it. When that happens, most homeowners want a local company they can trust, not somebody far away who treats the job like just another number.
That is why searches like deck refacing near you and local deck builders matter so much. Homeowners want somebody nearby who can actually look at the deck, tell them what makes sense, and give them a real plan.
Why Starting Early Matters
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting too long to start the process.
Once spring hits, a lot of people start searching for a deck contractor near you at the exact same time. That is when schedules tighten up, timelines get pushed out, and the projects people wanted done “soon” start getting booked further into the season.
Starting earlier gives you more flexibility. You have more time to compare options, figure out whether you need a full rebuild or just a reface, and get on the schedule before the busiest stretch of the year.
If you want to learn more about the kind of projects we handle, you can check out our decking services page.
Deck Refacing Near You Can Be a Smart Option
A lot of homeowners assume that if their deck looks rough, they need to tear the whole thing out and start over. That is not always true.
If the frame is still in good condition, deck refacing near you may be the better move. A reface can let you update the visible parts of the deck without turning the job into a full rebuild. That can mean less disruption, a faster turnaround, and a simpler path to getting the deck ready for the season.
At Construction Kings, we always like to start by figuring out whether a deck is actually a good candidate for a reface. If it is, great. If it is not, we would rather tell you that honestly than pretend every deck needs the same solution.
What to Look for in a Deck Company Near You
When homeowners search for a deck company near you, they are usually trying to find somebody reliable, not just somebody with a nice-looking ad.
You want a builder who will actually inspect the deck, explain the options clearly, and help you understand whether you are better off with a reface or a rebuild. You also want somebody who pays attention to the details, because that is usually what separates a deck that just looks decent from one that really feels solid and finished.
That is a big reason homeowners choose owner-operated builders. The communication is better, the details matter more, and the advice usually feels more honest and less like a sales pitch.
Local Deck Builders Should Help You Make the Right Call
Not every homeowner needs the same thing.
Some decks are great candidates for a wood reface. Some homeowners want a lower-maintenance upgrade that will hold up longer and stay looking cleaner. Some decks need more work underneath and are better off being rebuilt properly. The important part is having a local deck builder who will tell you the truth about which category your project falls into.
That is how we try to handle things at Construction Kings. We want homeowners to get honest advice, good workmanship, and a result that actually makes sense for their house.
If You Are Looking for Deck Builders Near You, Do Not Wait Too Long
If your deck needs work and you want it done before summer, now is the time to start the conversation.
Waiting until everyone else is searching for deck builders near you usually does not help. It just gives you fewer options. The earlier you get the deck looked at, the easier it is to figure out whether a reface can move faster or whether the project needs a bigger plan.
If you want to see more of our work, visit our gallery, read our reviews, or head to our contact page to reach out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finding Deck Builders Near You
How do I choose the best deck builder near me?
Look for a company that will actually inspect your deck, explain your options clearly, and has a track record of quality work and strong customer communication.
Is deck refacing faster than rebuilding?
Often, yes. If the frame is still in good condition, a reface can usually move faster than a full rebuild.
Should I repair, reface, or rebuild my deck?
That depends on the condition of the structure underneath. Some decks only need surface upgrades, while others need deeper structural work.
Do local deck builders book up for summer?
Yes, that is common. Once spring starts, schedules often get tighter, which is why planning early helps.
Helpful Links:
Want Your Deck Redone This Summer? Why West Michigan Homeowners Should Plan Early
Across West Michigan, the same thing happens every year. Homeowners make it through winter without thinking too much about the deck, then one stretch of decent weather shows up and suddenly it jumps to the top of the list.
By then, deck builders are starting to get booked up, and people who wanted their project handled before summer are all trying to make that happen at the same time.
If you already know your deck needs work, the smartest move is to start planning now instead of waiting until the whole market is in a rush.
At Construction Kings, that is the honest advice we give people every spring. If you want to enjoy the deck this summer, do not wait until summer to figure it out.
Why Timing Matters So Much in West Michigan
Outdoor season here comes fast. Once people can picture grilling out again, sitting outside again, and having people over again, deck projects move up the priority list in a hurry.
The problem is that your house is not the only one doing that. Homeowners across Jenison, Allendale, Hudsonville, Grand Rapids, and the lakeshore all start thinking the same way once spring starts showing up.
That is why timing matters. Early planning usually means better schedule options, more room to think through materials, and less pressure to make fast decisions.
Deck Refaces Are Worth Looking At
A lot of homeowners assume their only choices are either “do nothing” or “rebuild the whole thing.” That is not always true.
If the frame is still in good shape, a deck reface can be one of the best options on the table. You upgrade the visible parts of the deck, improve the look and feel of the space, and avoid turning the job into a bigger project than it needs to be.
That can be especially appealing if your goal is simple: get the deck looking good and ready to use this season.
At Construction Kings, we like helping homeowners figure out whether a reface actually makes sense or whether the deck needs a full rebuild. Either answer is fine. The important part is being honest about it.
Why Refaces Can Sometimes Get Done Faster
When the structure underneath is worth keeping, a reface can often move faster than a full rebuild. There is usually less demolition, less structural work, and fewer moving parts overall.
That does not mean every project is permit-free or automatically simple, but it does mean a reface can sometimes be a much cleaner path to getting your outdoor space ready sooner.
That is one reason homeowners looking to use the deck this summer should not wait too long to have theirs looked at. The sooner you know what category the project falls into, the sooner you can make the right move.
Keep the Material Choice Practical
One thing that slows people down is overthinking the material choice.
Wood still makes sense for some homeowners. Others want a lower-maintenance option that will hold up better and ask less from them over time. The right answer depends on budget, expectations, and how long you want the deck to stay looking sharp without constant upkeep.
We build wood projects and premium low-maintenance deck projects, but the bigger point is that homeowners should choose the material that actually fits their goals instead of rushing into something once the season is already underway.
If you want to see examples, check out our project gallery or read more on our blog.
Why Owner-Operated Still Matters
There are plenty of deck companies in West Michigan. The difference is not always in the sales pitch. A lot of the time, it is in how the project is actually handled once the job starts.
For homeowners, it helps to work with a company that will actually look closely at the existing deck, explain the options clearly, and care about the details of the build. That matters whether you are doing a small wood reface or a full premium rebuild.
That is a big part of how we approach projects at Construction Kings. We keep it educational, straightforward, and honest.
If You Want It Done for Summer, Do Not Wait for the Rush
If your deck needs work and you want it ready for this summer, this is the right time to start planning. Not when everybody else is making the same call at the same time.
Whether your deck ends up being a reface or a bigger rebuild, getting ahead of the season gives you better odds of getting the project done on the timing you actually want.
To learn more, head to our decking services page, visit our reviews, or contact us to start the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deck Refacing in West Michigan
Is a deck reface worth it?
If the frame is still sound, yes, it can be a great way to improve the look and usability of a deck without doing a full rebuild.
Do deck builders in West Michigan book up for summer?
Yes, that is common. Spring is when many homeowners begin scheduling outdoor projects, so earlier planning usually gives you more flexibility.
What is the difference between a deck reface and a rebuild?
A reface upgrades the visible and finished components of the deck while keeping the structure if it is still solid. A rebuild starts over structurally.
Do you work all across West Michigan?
Yes. Construction Kings serves homeowners throughout West Michigan, including Jenison, Allendale, Hudsonville, Grand Rapids, and surrounding areas.
