Your Chester County Home Deserves a Backyard Worth Using
Pennsylvania summers are short enough — you shouldn’t spend them looking at a backyard you never use. Whether you’re envisioning a simple low-maintenance composite deck, a multi-level entertaining space, a covered structure for year-round use, or a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, the right outdoor living project transforms how you experience your home from May through October.
Harlan Custom Contracting builds custom decks and outdoor living spaces throughout Chester County — Glenmoore, West Chester, Malvern, Exton, Berwyn, Wayne, and surrounding communities. We design and build structures that are beautiful, functional, properly permitted, and built to last through Pennsylvania’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Outdoor Living Projects We Build
Composite Decks
Composite decking has become the clear preference for Chester County homeowners who want a beautiful deck without annual staining, sealing, or the splintering that comes with natural wood. We work with leading composite brands — Trex, TimberTech, Azek — in a range of colors and profiles to match your home’s exterior.
Composite decks resist moisture, mold, and UV fading. They stay cooler underfoot than older-generation composites and require nothing more than an occasional wash to keep them looking new.
Pressure-Treated Wood Decks
For homeowners who prefer natural wood or are working within a tighter budget, pressure-treated lumber remains a proven, durable option. We build tight, well-constructed PT decks designed to last — and we’re honest about what upkeep they require so you know what you’re getting into.
Multi-Level Decks
Chester County lots often feature grade changes that make multi-level decks not just a design choice, but a practical solution. Multiple levels define separate zones — a dining area, a lounging area, steps down to a yard or pool area — and add visual interest while working with the natural topography.
Covered Structures: Pergolas & Roof Covers
A pergola adds structure and shade without fully enclosing your space. Add climbing plants, a retractable canopy, or string lights for an outdoor room feel. Full roof covers — a solid structure tied into your home’s roofline — provide rain protection and make your outdoor space usable on more days of the year.
Screened Porches
Chester County evenings are beautiful — when the bugs aren’t ruining them. A screened porch lets you enjoy those evenings comfortably. We convert existing decks or build new screened structures that integrate with your home’s architecture.
Outdoor Kitchens & Bars
A built-in grill station, outdoor refrigerator, bar seating, and prep space turn your deck into a true outdoor kitchen. We rough in the gas line, electrical, and any drainage required, and build the structure to properly support outdoor-grade appliances and stone or concrete countertops.
Fire Pit Areas & Hardscaping
A paved sitting area around a fire pit, a natural stone path to a detached structure, a retaining wall that levels a sloped yard — we incorporate hardscaping elements that complete the outdoor living vision.
What to Think About Before Building a Deck in Chester County
Permit requirements Most Chester County townships require permits for decks over a certain height or size. We handle permit applications, drawings, and inspections — don’t build without one. An unpermitted deck can cause problems when you sell.
Setback requirements Your property has zoning setbacks that determine how close a structure can be to your property lines. We check your specific lot before designing so your deck is buildable from day one.
Ledger attachment vs. freestanding Decks attached to the house via a ledger board must be properly flashed and anchored to prevent moisture infiltration and structural failure. This is one of the most common failure points on DIY decks. We do it right.
Material and budget Composite decking costs more upfront than pressure-treated wood — typically 30–50% more — but the maintenance savings over a 15-year lifespan often make composite the better value. We’ll help you run the numbers and make the right decision for your situation.
The Harlan Outdoor Living Process
1. Design Consultation We visit your property, assess the space, discuss your vision and how you’ll use the area, and review zoning and setback constraints. We provide a design concept and detailed estimate.
2. Material Selection We help you choose the right decking material, railing system, structural elements, and any additional features — outdoor kitchen components, lighting, pergola style.
3. Permitting We handle township submissions and coordinate inspections.
4. Construction Our crew builds the structure — footings, framing, decking, railing, roof structure, and finishing details — with attention to every connection and fastener. Pennsylvania weather puts outdoor structures through their paces; we build accordingly.
5. Completion & Walk-Through We walk through the finished space with you, confirm everything meets your expectations, and brief you on any maintenance the chosen materials require.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does deck construction take? A straightforward deck (600–800 sq ft) typically takes 2–4 weeks once permits are approved. Larger or more complex projects with covered structures, outdoor kitchens, or hardscaping run 4–8 weeks.
What does a deck cost in Chester County? A basic pressure-treated deck starts around $30–45/sq ft. A composite deck runs $55–80/sq ft. A covered structure, outdoor kitchen, or multi-level deck increases the cost based on scope. We provide a detailed estimate for your specific project.
Composite vs. wood — which should I choose? For most Chester County homeowners, composite is the right choice. Lower lifetime maintenance, no splinters, consistent appearance, and manufacturers’ warranties of 25–30 years on most products. We can walk you through the specific options.
Can you add a deck to an existing patio or hardscaping? Yes — we can build a deck adjacent to, or incorporating, existing hardscaping. We evaluate the existing conditions and design accordingly.
Get Started on Your Outdoor Living Project
Chester County summers go fast. If you want to enjoy your new outdoor space this season, now is the time to start.
Harlan Custom Contracting builds custom decks and outdoor living spaces throughout Chester County — Glenmoore, West Chester, Malvern, Exton, Berwyn, Wayne, Phoenixville, and beyond.
Let’s build you a backyard worth coming home to.
