When you invest in a new custom deck, it’s easy to focus entirely on what’s visible: the beautiful Trex composite boards, the sleek railings, or a built-in screened-in porch. But the most critical factor determining whether your deck lasts for 30 years or collapses in five is completely invisible. It's your footers. In the Chicagoland area, our ground goes through some of the most intense environmental stress in the country. Let's peel back the layers of dirt and look at what

If you step outside onto your porch and notice a distinct slant, a dipped roofline, or a bouncy feeling underfoot, it isn't your imagination. A sagging porch is a serious structural red flag that demands immediate attention. Here in the Chicagoland area, our residential architecture relies heavily on porches and large outdoor decks—especially our iconic, historic multi-tier rear porches and expansive suburban decks. However, many of these structures are decades old, reaching

A team member welding a c-channel for a steel deck frame. When most homeowners dream up a new deck, they spend hours picking out the perfect shade of composite boards or scrolling through railing designs on Pinterest. But the most critical part of your deck isn't what you walk on—it’s the structure hiding beneath it. Traditionally, almost all residential decks have been built on a pressure-treated wood frame. However, high-end residential engineering and strict commercial bui

When planning a new deck in the Chicagoland area, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make right out of the gate is choosing your decking material. For most homeowners, it comes down to a classic debate: Pressure-Treated Wood or Composite (like Trex)? At first glance, pressure-treated wood looks like the obvious winner for your wallet. But a deck isn't just a one-time purchase—it’s a long-term investment. Over a decade of facing brutal Chicago blizzards, freezing-and-thawing

As the weather warms up in Chicagoland, our decks become the ultimate spots for weekend barbecues, family gatherings, and relaxing evenings. But because our outdoor spaces host the people we care about most, safety should always be the top priority. Decks are complex structural systems exposed to some of the harshest weather in the country—from brutal Chicago winters with heavy snow loads to humid midwestern summers. Over time, wear and tear, aging materials, or poor initial

Within this guide, you will be taken through the 7 steps that Jimenez Fence Corp. follows at the beginning of your new project. Step 1: Submit Information and Schedule Appointment Initially, please provide some information about yourself and your project. This should include your name, contact details, and a brief overview of your project goals. This can be done via our contact page or by contacting our offices. Someone from our team will reach out to you in 1-3 business days