Deck Builder on Cape Cod
New decks, rebuilds and repairs, built by John Murray himself
If you are looking for a deck builder on Cape Cod, Murray Construction is an owner-operated general contractor based in Sandwich, MA. Owner John Murray is a master carpenter with 20+ years in the trades and a TimberTech Platinum Pro, and he is personally on every deck project, from the first site visit to the final walkthrough.
This page covers new decks, full rebuilds and repairs to porch boards, stairs, posts and railings, plus what matters for a deck near the water, how a project with John runs and what drives the cost.
What a deck contractor on Cape Cod can build for you
Most deck calls fall into one of three groups, and John handles all three.
- ✓New custom decks: Decks designed around how you use the yard: off a kitchen door, wrapped around a corner, raised on a sloped lot or built low with wide stairs, with built-in benches and custom railings if you want them.
- ✓Deck rebuilds and replacements: When the framing under an old deck is tired, a rebuild replaces structure and surface together, often the moment to move from wood to composite or PVC. The guide on whether to rebuild or replace an old deck walks through that decision.
- ✓Deck and porch repair: Soft porch boards, loose stairs, rotted posts and failing balusters. A repair starts with finding how far the damage goes, because surface rot often continues into the framing.
What matters for a deck on Cape Cod
Salt air, wind-driven rain and the freeze-thaw cycle are hard on outdoor wood and metal. A deck here is only as good as the details you cannot see once it is finished.
- ✓Footings: Footings set to the depth your town’s building department requires and sized for the load, so posts do not heave or settle. If your current posts move, read what wobbling deck posts usually mean.
- ✓Ledger flashing: Where a deck attaches to the house, the ledger needs proper flashing so water runs away from the house instead of into it. Failed flashing is a common reason an old deck has to come off.
- ✓Fasteners and hardware: Stainless or coated fasteners, hangers and connectors rated for treated lumber and coastal exposure, so the hardware does not corrode.
- ✓Wetlands and coastal lots: Lots near wetlands, marshes or the shore can need Conservation Commission review before work starts. John helps you find that out early.
How hiring John as your deck builder works
The person who looks at your yard is the person who builds the deck.
- ✓Consultation and site visit: John walks the property, checks the house wall, the grade and any existing deck, and talks through how you want to use the space.
- ✓Written quote: A written quote spelling out the scope, framing, decking and railing materials.
- ✓Permits: John handles the building permit with your town’s building department, and Conservation Commission filings where the lot needs them.
- ✓Build: Footings, framing, decking, railings and stairs, with required inspections along the way.
- ✓Walkthrough: A final walkthrough together, including care tips for the decking you chose.
Decking materials and framing
Most of the decks John builds today use TimberTech composite or PVC decking over pressure-treated framing. Composite and PVC boards resist fading, staining and moisture better than wood and skip the yearly sanding and sealing. Pressure-treated lumber remains the standard for the hidden structure and is still a sound choice for a budget-minded surface.
For a closer look at TimberTech product lines, colors and railing systems, visit Cape Cod Decks. This page is about the build itself.
What affects the cost of a deck
Every deck is priced from its own site and design. These factors move the number most.
- ✓Size and shape: More square footage, angles, curves and multiple levels all add material and labor.
- ✓Height and site: Raised decks and sloped lots need taller posts, more bracing and more stairs.
- ✓Decking material: Pressure-treated, composite and PVC boards sit at different price points, and product lines vary within each.
- ✓Railings and extras: Railing style, built-in seating, lighting and stair count.
- ✓Existing conditions: Removing an old deck or repairing a rotted ledger and the wall behind it.
- ✓Permits and review: Engineering or Conservation Commission requirements on some lots.
Areas served
John builds and repairs decks across Cape Cod from his base in Sandwich, including Sandwich, Bourne, Falmouth, Mashpee, Barnstable, Dennis and nearby towns. If your town is not listed, ask.
Frequently asked questions
Do you repair decks, or only build new ones?
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Both. John replaces porch boards, stairs, rotted posts and balusters as well as building new decks. Janet C. of Falmouth wrote: “John replaced the steps and front porch boards quickly. While doing the job it was discovered that the structural balusters were also rotten — he found new ones and installed them that day.”
Do you handle permits for a new deck?
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Yes. John pulls the building permit through your town’s building department and schedules the inspections the job requires. If your property is near wetlands or the shore, he will help you find out whether Conservation Commission review applies before any work begins.
Should I choose composite or pressure-treated decking?
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It depends on upkeep and budget. Composite and PVC cost more up front but skip the yearly sanding and sealing wood needs. Pressure-treated boards cost less to install but need regular care in salt air. John can price both in your quote so you can compare.
Can you rebuild my deck on the existing framing?
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Sometimes. During the site visit John checks the posts, beams, joists, ledger and footings. If the framing is sound and properly attached, new decking and railings can go on top. If he finds rot, missing flashing or undersized members, he will explain what needs replacing and why before you decide.
Who will actually build my deck?
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John Murray. Murray Construction is owner-operated, and John is personally on every project. If a deck plan includes work like outdoor electrical for lighting, a licensed electrician handles it and John coordinates that trade as the general contractor.
How do I get an estimate?
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Call John at (508) 648-3215 or send a few details through the contact page: your town, what you have now, and what you want the deck to do. He will set up a site visit, look at the house and yard, and follow with a written quote.
Related guides
- DecksDeck Building on Cape Cod: Composite vs. Pressure-Treated and What Affects the CostComposite, pressure-treated or cedar? How each holds up to Cape Cod salt air and winters, what moves the cost up front and over time, and what drives TimberTech pricing.
- DecksHow Rain and Snow Affect Your Deck's Structural HealthDecks are one of those outdoor spaces that can turn a regular backyard into the go-to hangout spot. Whether you’re enjoying a cookout, relaxing with a book, or watching the kids run around, a deck adds real value to…
- DecksDiscover Cape Cod Deck Building Costs: Pricing ExplainedUncover the average costs for deck building in Cape Cod, including pricing details per square foot. Understand budget-friendly options for your outdoor space.
- DecksShould You Rebuild or Replace Your Old Deck in SandwichDiscover whether to rebuild or replace your deck in Sandwich. Learn key factors and hire a custom deck builder for your project with Murray Construction.
Talk to John about your deck
Call (508) 648-3215 or send a message to set up a site visit for your new deck, rebuild or repair.
