Our Most Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve got questions. And, we’ve built a lot of things including answers. Wondering how much you’ll need to invest in a project? Or how long builds take to get started? You’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up the top questions we hear the most, with the straightforward answers you want before actually inviting us into your backyard. Let’s get into it…
Why Meraki Outdoor Living?
Because you’re not simply investing in a deck or patio. You’re creating a place where family gathers, conversations linger, milestones are celebrated, and everyday moments feel a little more meaningful. At Meraki Outdoor Living, we combine thoughtful design, premium craftsmanship, and a personalized experience to create outdoor living spaces that feel like a natural extension of your home. We build for gathering. We design for legacy And over the last 8 years we’ve gotten incredible feedback from our clients that confirm our mission - to be the best in the industry.
Will You help us design the space?
Absolutely. That’s what sets us apart. We consider ourselves artists of the outdoor living space. Many homeowners come to us with inspiration photos, rough ideas, or simply a desire to spend more time outdoors. Our team transforms those ideas into a cohesive design that complements your home, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Do I need plans before reaching out?
Not at all.
Whether you have a fully developed vision or are starting with a blank slate, we’ll guide you through the design process and help determine what’s possible for your property.
When can you start?
Our schedule varies throughout the year, but most projects begin several weeks to several months after design approval.
Because permitting, HOA approvals, and material lead times can impact schedules, we recommend beginning the planning process as early as possible.
Can you complete your project in phases?
Absolutely.
Many homeowners choose to build their outdoor living space over time. For example, you may begin with a deck or patio and add a pergola, outdoor kitchen, or a fireplace later.
Whenever possible, we design with future phases in mind so today’s investment supports tomorrow’s vision.
Do patio covers add home value?
A professionally designed covered outdoor living space often increases both resale appeal and functional living space while enhancing everyday enjoyment.
Investment + Budget
How much will my project cost?
Every outdoor living space we create is custom designed around your home, property, and goals. Most deck, pergola, and patio projects range from $20,000 to $350,000+, while fully integrated outdoor living spaces often begin around $80,000 and can exceed $350,000 depending on size, materials, and features. During your consultation, we’ll discuss priorities, lifestyle goals, and investment expectations so we can design a space that aligns with both your vision and budget.
Is there anything we can remove to lower the investment?
Often, yes. Material selections, railing systems, covered structures, lighting packages, and specialty features can all impact overall cost. Rather than compromising the integrity of the project, we’ll help identify opportunities to simplify the scope while preserving the beauty, functionality, and long-term value of your outdoor space.
What is the best investment if we have a limited budget?
Every property is different, but we typically recommend investing first in the foundational elements that create the greatest functionality and long-term value. Our team can help prioritize features and develop a phased approach if you’d like to build over time.
Do you offer financing?
We work with financing partners that may be able to help qualified homeowners explore payment options. Ask our team about current financing availability and programs.
Is there a discount for building during the winter?
Depending on scheduling, project type, and material availability, there may be opportunities for seasonal savings. The greatest advantage is often securing your place on the calendar so your outdoor space is ready to enjoy sooner.
Permits + HOA
Does my project require a permit?
Most structural outdoor projects require permits, including decks, patio covers, pergolas, four-season spaces, and outdoor structures. Permit requirements vary by municipality, and we’ll determine exactly what’s needed during the planning phase.
How long do permits take?
Permit timelines vary depending on your municipality and the complexity of your project. Some permits are approved within a few weeks, while others can take several months. Because approval timelines are outside of our control, we encourage homeowners to begin planning early whenever possible.
Do I need HOA approval?
If your neighborhood has an HOA, approval is often required before construction begins. Most HOAs require drawings, material selections, site plans, and project details before granting approval.
Materials & Design
What decking materials do you use?
We primarily build with premium low-maintenance composite decking products from industry-leading manufacturers. We’ll help you select the right material based on appearance, performance, maintenance preferences, and budget.
What’s the difference between Trex and the products you recommend?
Trex is one of the most recognized composite decking brands available. Because of that, many of clients prefer to go with this “house hold” brand name. Still, we find ourselves recommending Deckorators products for both quality AND value. Other common options would include Timbertech/Azek, Fiberon, Moistureshield and more.
Depending on the project, we often recommend premium decking products that offer enhanced durability, more realistic wood grain patterns, greater color variation, and improved overall performance.
We’ll walk you through the options and help you choose the best fit for your home and goals.
Does composite decking get hot in the sun?
All outdoor surfaces absorb heat, including composite decking.
Lighter colors generally stay cooler than darker colors, and some premium decking products are engineered to perform better in direct sunlight.
Will composite decking fade?
All outdoor materials experience some natural weathering and color stabilization.
Modern composite decking products are engineered to resist significant fading and maintain their appearance for many years.
What railing options are available?
We offer a variety of railing systems, including:
• Aluminum or steel railings
• Cable railings
• Glass railings
• Composite railings
• Custom wood railings
We’ll help you select the option that best fits your views, style preferences, maintenance goals, and budget.
Construction & Structural Questions
Can you keep my existing deck framing?
Sometimes. The answer depends on the age, condition, structural integrity, and whether the framing meets current building codes. If the existing structure qualifies for reuse, we’ll discuss that option during the evaluation process.
Can I put a hot tub on my deck?
In many cases, yes. Hot tubs create significant structural loads, so the deck must be properly engineered to support the weight. If a hot tub is part of your vision, we’ll account for it during design and engineering.
Can we add a pergola or cover later if we don’t build it now?
Often, yes. When possible, we can design your project with future additions in mind. Planning ahead allows us to prepare structural elements during the initial build, making future upgrades easier and more cost-effective.
Can I put a grill, fire pit, or fireplace under my deck, pergola, or patio cover?
Possibly. This depends on local building codes, ventilation requirements, manufacturer specifications, and required clearances from combustible materials. We’ll help determine which fire features can be incorporated safely into your design.
Do you move or repair irrigation lines?
Yes. It’s common for irrigation systems to be impacted during construction. We can modify, relocate, and repair irrigation components as needed to accommodate your project.
Do I need to be home during construction?
Not typically. Many homeowners continue their normal routines while we complete the work. We’ll maintain communication throughout the project and keep you informed of important milestones.
Maintenance & Warranty
How much maintenance is required?
Maintenance depends largely on the materials selected. Composite decking, aluminum railings, and many modern outdoor products require minimal upkeep beyond occasional cleaning. Natural wood products typically require more ongoing maintenance such as staining or sealing. We’ll help you select materials that align with your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
What does your warranty cover?
Warranty coverage varies depending on the products and systems installed. Most projects include workmanship coverage from Meraki along with manufacturer warranties on decking, railing, roofing, and other materials. During your proposal review, we’ll clearly outline the warranty details specific to your project so you know exactly what’s covered.
What service areas do you work in?
We proudly serve homeowners throughout the Denver Metro area, including Douglas County, Jefferson County, Castle Rock, Parker, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Evergreen, Golden, Morrison, and surrounding communities.If you’re unsure whether your home falls within our service area, we’d be happy to discuss your project.