A deck or porch is more than just an addition to your house; it’s a gateway to a new lifestyle. It’s where you’ll sip your morning coffee, host summer barbecues, watch your children play, and unwind under the stars. It’s an outdoor living room, a personal retreat, and the heart of your home’s social life.
In a state as beautiful as Maryland, with its distinct seasons and natural scenery, a well-built deck or porch allows you to embrace the outdoors and create lasting memories. But building a structure that is not only beautiful but also safe, durable, and compliant with local codes requires a level of expertise that can only come from years of dedicated experience.
For over 30 years, G.H. Clark Contractors has been the deck builder Southern Maryland homeowners trust to create those stunning outdoor sanctuaries. As a family-owned business in Prince Frederick, we’ve designed and built hundreds of decks and porches, focusing on creating spaces that are as durable as they are beautiful. Our dedication is to helping our community enjoy the beauty of outdoor living.
The G.H. Clark Standard: Building More Than Just Decks
When you choose G.H. Clark, you’re choosing a partner who is dedicated to bringing your vision to life with an unmatched level of quality and personal service. Our process is built on a foundation of communication, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for our customers and their homes.
A Generation of Expertise, A Future of Innovation
Our roots in the community run deep. For over three decades, our family has been honing its craft, blending timeless building principles with the latest advancements in materials and techniques. This combination of old-school work ethic and new-school technology allows us to deliver a superior product. Our owner, Gil Clark, remains personally invested in our projects, ensuring that the legacy of quality he built continues to be the cornerstone of our business.
A Collaborative Design Journey
Your dream deck starts with a conversation, not a sales pitch. We invite you to our Prince Frederick showroom, where you can see and touch the materials, explore different design options, and talk directly with the experts who will be building your project. We listen to your ideas, understand how you plan to use the space, and then work with you to design a deck that is both functional and beautiful. Our process is transparent, collaborative, and centered around you.
An Unwavering Commitment to Your Peace of Mind
We know that the quality of your experience is just as important as the quality of the final product. Our in-house crews are not only highly skilled builders but also courteous professionals who respect your property and your time. We handle all aspects of the project, from securing permits to the final cleanup, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. Our job isn’t done until you are completely thrilled with your new outdoor space.
Choosing Your Material: A Guide to Maryland Decking
The decking material you choose is the most critical decision in the building process. It will determine your deck’s appearance, maintenance requirements, and long-term durability. We specialize in the industry’s leading materials, each with unique benefits for the Maryland climate.
| Decking Material | Best For | Maintenance Level | Lifespan | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Wood | The budget-conscious homeowner seeking a traditional wood look. | High (Requires annual sealing/staining) | 10-15 Years | Most affordable upfront cost. |
| Composite | The homeowner seeking a balance of beauty, durability, and low maintenance. | Low (Requires occasional cleaning) | 25-30 Years | Resists rot, insects, and warping. Excellent long-term value. |
| PVC (Cellular Vinyl) | The homeowner demanding the ultimate in low maintenance and longevity. | Very Low (Easiest to clean) | 30+ Years | Completely moisture and mold-proof. Stays cooler to the touch. |
Pressure-Treated Wood: The Classic Choice. For those who love the timeless look and feel of real wood, pressure-treated lumber is a popular and affordable option. It provides a strong, sturdy structure and a natural aesthetic. However, to protect it from Maryland’s moisture and sun, it requires a commitment to regular maintenance, including annual cleaning, staining, and sealing to prevent rot, splintering, and warping.
Composite Decking: The Modern Standard. Composite decking has become the go-to choice for Maryland homeowners, and for good reason. Made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and durable plastic, it offers the beauty of wood without the constant upkeep. It is highly resistant to rot, insects, and moisture, and it won’t splinter or warp. While the upfront cost is higher than wood, the savings in maintenance costs and the extended lifespan make it an excellent long-term investment.
PVC Decking: The Ultimate in Performance. For the ultimate in worry-free outdoor living, PVC decking is unmatched. As a 100% synthetic material, it is completely impervious to moisture, making it impossible for mold, mildew, or rot to take hold. It’s incredibly durable, easy to clean, and tends to stay cooler in direct sunlight than many composite options. For homeowners who want the best performance and the lowest maintenance possible, PVC is the premier choice.
The Art of the Build: Our Deck Construction Process
Building a deck that is both beautiful and structurally sound requires a meticulous, step-by-step process. Our approach ensures that every detail is handled with precision, from the ground up.
- In-Depth Design & Planning: We translate our initial conversation into a detailed 3D design, allowing you to visualize your new deck before we break ground. We finalize material choices, colors, and features, and provide a transparent, fixed-price contract.
- Permitting and Code Compliance: We take the headache out of the paperwork. Our team prepares and submits all necessary documents to your local municipality to secure the building permit, ensuring your project is fully compliant with Maryland’s building codes.
- Foundation First: The foundation is the most critical part of the build. We dig and pour concrete footers that go below the frost line, preventing your deck from heaving during winter’s freeze-thaw cycles. This creates a stable, permanent base for your structure.
- Framing for Strength: We build the deck’s frame using high-quality, pressure-treated lumber. We adhere to strict structural standards, ensuring proper joist spacing and support to create a frame that is strong, safe, and built to last a lifetime.
- Decking and Railing Installation: With the frame in place, we meticulously install your chosen decking material, ensuring consistent spacing and a flawless finish. We then install the railing system, guaranteeing it is secure and meets all safety height and spacing requirements.
- Finishing Touches & Final Cleanup: We complete the project by installing any additional features like lighting, benches, or privacy screens. We then conduct a thorough cleanup of the entire job site, leaving your property pristine.
- Final Walkthrough: We walk you through the finished project, answer any questions you have, and ensure you are 100% satisfied with every aspect of your new outdoor living space.
Beyond the Deck: Complete Outdoor Living Solutions
We believe your outdoor space should be a seamless extension of your home. That’s why we offer a full range of features to enhance the beauty, functionality, and enjoyment of your deck or porch.
- Screen Porches: Enjoy the breeze without the bugs. A screen porch is the perfect solution for Maryland’s humid summers, allowing you to relax outdoors in comfort, day or night.
- Under-Deck Waterproofing: Don’t let the space under your elevated deck go to waste. We can install an under-deck waterproofing system that creates a dry, usable patio area below, perfect for storage or a second outdoor seating area.
- Custom Railing Systems: Safety is paramount, but it doesn’t have to be boring. We offer a wide variety of railing options, from classic wood to modern aluminum and low-maintenance vinyl, to perfectly complement your deck’s style.
- Integrated Lighting & Features: Extend the enjoyment of your deck well into the evening with a custom lighting package. We can also incorporate features like built-in benches, planters, or privacy walls to create a truly custom space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Decks & Porches
How long does it take to build a deck?
While every project is unique, a standard deck build typically takes between one to three weeks from the start of construction to completion, depending on the size, complexity, and weather conditions.
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Maryland?
Yes, in almost all cases, a building permit is required for deck construction in Maryland. As part of our service, we handle the entire permitting process for you, ensuring your new deck is fully compliant with all local building codes.
What is the difference between composite and PVC decking?
Composite decking is a blend of wood fibers and plastic, while PVC decking is 100% plastic. Both are low-maintenance, but PVC offers superior moisture resistance, making it ideal for areas near pools or in very damp, shady locations.
How much does a new deck cost?
The cost of a new deck can vary widely based on the size, materials chosen, and complexity of the design. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable, while composite and PVC have a higher upfront cost but lower lifetime expenses. We provide detailed, transparent estimates so you can make an informed decision.
Is a new deck a good investment?
Yes. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, a new wood deck can recoup over 80% of its cost in added home value, while a composite deck recoups around 77%. It’s one of the best home improvement projects for return on investment.
What kind of maintenance does a composite deck require?
Composite decking is incredibly low-maintenance. It does not require any staining, sealing, or painting. A simple cleaning with soap and water once or twice a year is all that’s needed to keep it looking beautiful.
Your Invitation to a Better Backyard
Your dream of a perfect outdoor space is closer than you think. An investment in a deck or porch is an investment in your home’s value and your family’s quality of life. With G.H. Clark Contractors, you’re choosing a partner with a 30-year legacy of quality, a deep commitment to our community, and a passion for building beautiful, lasting outdoor spaces.
We invite you to contact us today to schedule your free design consultation. Let’s start the conversation and take the first step toward building your outdoor oasis.
G.H. Clark Contractors is the best choice for all your home exterior needs including roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters, decks & porches. All products and installation are guaranteed.
Contact Info
530 Main St.
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
Maps & Directions
Phone: (410) 414-7060
Showroom Hours:
By Appointment Only