The Deck Guyz

Allen and PJ are amazing! They worked great with the village and with us. Allen provides the most detailed drawings and accepts nothing less than perfection in his work. The attention to the fine details and his guidance in design made him stand out above the rest. He has a great eye for the use of the space (deck) what would work for our family and how we can grow with our deck. We downsized from a 1400SF deck to 800SF and I feel we use more of our deck now than we ever did.

What can I say...Allen and PJ are true craftsmen, passionate about their work, and dedicated to delivering an exceptional product. We had an old paver patio that we ripped out and Allen delivered a deck that we will enjoy for years to come. We started planning last year and Allen continued to work with us as we fine tuned the plan over the winter. The build was a delight to witness and be a part of. Not only do we have a beautiful new deck, but we also have new friends. If you want someone that truly cares about your project and not just money, hire Allen. If I could, I would give them an A++!!!

When Allen was referred to us, he was described as "a deck artist." From the first time we met him, he lived up to that title. Our deck was smaller than many of the ones he works with, and the balcony above added another layer of complexity to the project. Allen sized everything up and came up with a plan that completely reimagined the space, more than doubling the size of the deck just by rearranging the layout of the stairs. The footprint of the deck grew only slightly, but we gained a massive amount of space, thanks to Allen's keen design sense. He was thorough in drawing up the plans and going over them with us so we understood every detail. He explained the materials he uses and was very clear on the cost and timing of the project. He obtained all necessary permits and dealt with the various inspections over the course of the build. Allen and his assistant were consummate professionals: timely; always happy to answer questions; and just great to have around. Allen's eye for detail was amazing and he always went the extra mile for us. The finished project is beautiful. The balcony is sturdy enough to hold an elephant, and it ties in beautiful with the deck below. The deck itself went from being basically a waste of space to a wonderful space with built-in benches, a built-in fire element and a side area for our grill. We have trellises on either side which provide some privacy, then the deck opens up so we have a clear view of the backyard. Allen set the bottom posts back a bit from the front of the deck so it gives the illusion that the deck is hovering in the air. It's truly outstanding. It looks less like a deck and more like an open addition to the back of the house. We've worked with many contractors over the years, but Allen is special. He's passionate about his work, he has a unique vision and he executes everything with skill and pride. He's also a truly kind person who we enjoyed getting to know. Hire the man. You won't regret it.

One of the best experiences I had with work done at my house with a fantastic outcome. I can't thank Allen and his team enough for listening and providing a solution that met all of our needs and then some. He has great ideas, is a hard worker and executes very well. I could not be happier with the outcome.

Allen responded very quickly to our inquiry and came to visit us to discuss what we wanted for our new deck. He listened to what we wanted, and then designed something that was everything we had asked for and yet somehow even better than what we had imagined. He built a perfect oasis for us in our backyard - it’s amazing and the whole family loves spending time there. We couldn’t be happier that we selected Deck Guyz to build our deck.

Allen was great! He responded right away the day we called to get an estimate (on a Saturday late afternoon). By Sunday, we had met and he had preliminary drawings and plans within 2-3 days. He was very responsive to any concerns and the work was amazing-- straight lines and seamless appearing - he made beautiful custom flower boxes and a pergola and deck that fit seamlessly with the overall style and size of the house. Our only regret is we didn't do this sooner. We have been out on our new deck more in the past 2 months than we had been in our basic backyard in the previous 2-3 years! We are very happy with our new deck and the decision to go with Allen and the Deck Guyz !

At the time this was done Allen was working with a familial apprentice, but primarily did all the work himself - no third party or day laborers. He is very quality oriented, meticulous, and takes pride in his work. He hand selects each piece of decking material, and includes a lot of small extra finishes that add up to a beautiful look. This job had challenges that arose after it started, and Allen was able to adapt as needed and accommodate required changes and even some last minute requests from us. He did an amazing job for us, and even added wiring for post lights at the last minute. When it was done, he did a professional cleanup of all construction materials, and you would have never known he was here. We've had the deck for two years and the construction held up very well, with no issues at all.

Allen is the owner of Deck Guyz and he is awesome. He performs all the work himself and is absolutely meticulous. He arrived on time for all meetings and negotiation before hand and also worked full time on our deck until completion. Aside from a few rain delays the deck was completed on time and it is beautiful. Allen cleaned up everything when he was done and left the deck area in pristine condition. He did not damage one plant around the deck while working. I would recommend the Deck Guyz for ALL your deck needs. Allen is a very skilled carpenter and takes great pride in his work. We now have the bestlooking deck in the neighborhood.

Would hire this company again. Very neat in all of the work that they performed. Did exactly what they said would be done. Made it their priority that we got everything that we anticipated.. Job well done... plus they cleaned up after themselves!

A representative (not sure if he was the owner) responded within 24 hours to a request to schedule an appointment via Angie's list. He arrived three days later as scheduled and on time. When I opened the door to shake his hand, he hesitated and asked "Is your husband home?" (red flag #1). I proceeded to tell him that he was but that he would be talking to me. We moved to the back yard to look at my deck. I quickly found him to be very pushy and unprofessional. He verbalized assumptions about me before hearing me out. For example, he said under his breath that I had not done any research (not true). He initially insisted I should (and that he only used) composite. When I probed, I found out that he did actually use wood materials sometimes but he just personally preferred composite. He was also insistent on "Trex" as the composite brand. When I asked about the class action lawsuit related to Trex, he said "I can't believe I have to explain this" and dismissed concerns about the product unconvincingly. The conversation was entirely uncomfortable because he was abrasive and rude throughout. My only consolation is that it didn't last long. When I told him specifically what I wanted (i.e. for my deck to be replaced with the exact same dimensions), he couldn't give me a quote based on materials and labor. Instead, he insisted I give him my budget first. When I said I would prefer to hear his quote first based on what I was requesting (a reasonable expectation), he waved his hand and started walking away saying (and I quote): "I don't have time for this." He thought better of it I think and started to walk back to me to give me an earful. As he started to lay into me, I was "done" and was sure I wanted him off my property. So, I waved him off and simply said "out." Wow! Very unprofessional. He is the rudest contractor I have been so unfortunate to speak to. I'm sure if he reads this review, he will malign me in his response, but don't believe it. I have no vested interested in sharing a bad review. Be an informed consumer and think twice before doing business with this company. It's not worth the headache even to get a quote.

contractor was very professional and punctial

Al (the Deck Guy) obviously takes a lot of pride in his work, the finished product looks like something out of a catalogue. We had some design changes in the beginning and Al was patient and helped us work through the changes and took it all in stride. Highly recommend.

I made an appointment with Allen who quickly came to my residence to meet with me and to assist with deck project ideas as well as an estimate. Allen quickly put something together right on budget and spent quite a bit of time with me to understand my likes and dislikes.

With out exception this organization will be back in my life. They are life-long residents of my area (Western Springs) and take their reputation seriously. The price was so well into my budget that I can do something else this year. I have compared prices and I tell you do NOT bother with anyone else. Call The Deck Guyz

Al (the owner) is the hardest working person I have ever met. Extremely professional and not afraid to work. We needed an old deck torn out where we are planning on putting a swimming pool. I knew it was going to be a big pain and I would not be able to do it. Or should I say NO CHANCE I could do it! He was ready and more than willing to take on this CRAZY project. He did more than expected and always showed up when he said he would. This is number one in my book business and professionalism! I highly recommend him do anything! I will definitely use Al again when we are ready to do a new deck in the near future!

I was very impressed from the beginning...Allen was very knowledgeable and came up with a great closet design to fit all my needs. The product which he uses is top of the line...really high end compared to other closet companies ...without the high end price. I absolutely love my closet...it feels great to be so organized.

I have used Allen`s company in the past and am completely satisfied with the work he does. My walk in closet is now a professionally custom built closet and it`s wonderful. My bathroom is beautiful and love all the fixtures that we picked out. I am so pleased with his work...and will continue to use his services again.

It went as smoothly as it could have!

Allen was fantastic. He came by when he said he would, and he stayed in contact to keep us updated. We got a couple of quotes, and he was the most reasonable one. He gave us a lot of options and made great recommendations for the colors we chose. My husband and I are so happy with the final product and can't wait to have guests over to utilize our new, safe, and clean outdoor space. We would definitely use his service again.

The previous owner built a deck almost 40X40, think it is bigger than the house, it was probably 20 years old. I found the Deck Guyz on Angie’s list and sent them an e-mail request an estimate. Allen Kirsch called me the next day and I scheduled some time with him to come over and see if we could repair what we had. After much discussion we decided it would be best to tear down the deck and build something smaller. He came back the next day with a drawing of what he thought I would like as far as design. It was exactly what we were looking for. He gave us a couple different options as far as materials, size of the deck, etc. Allen was just finishing up another job and started our deck soon after, he worked as often as he could due to all the rain we had in June. It was a very big job and during all the construction there were some other electrical issues that had to be taken care of too. Allen worked long hours because of all the setbacks with the rain and he wanted to get ours completed because he had other’s project scheduled and wanted to make sure all his customers were taken care of. All I can say is Allen is not just a carpenter, his work is the best of have seen in a long time. We have owned several homes and had decks built before. Now we have a beautiful place to sit at night and enjoy the rest of the summer. I’m sure we will be calling Allen back if we have any other home projects he can help us with. If you’re looking for someone that loves what he does, make sure to check out “The Deck Guyz” or as I call Allen “The Deck Guy”. Thank you Linda, Al and Betty (the pug)

Our deck, was completed on time, within our budget, and we are extremely please with our decision to have The Deck Guyz and Construction Company build our deck from the ground up. This is a company that I would recommend to anyone! Al, the owner, is very professional and his craftsmanship is unreal! Every detail is perfect. He built our deck as if it were his own. If you would like to inspect his work, feel free to contact me...h*** come over a see our deck!!!! I look forward to having this company complete other projects in my home. Jim Gainer

Allen is a True Professional who takes his work very seriously. He explains everything in detail..draws up the deck plan..which is pretty amazing to say the least..and not only does he do an incrediable job..his prices are really fair. You will be very happy to have such a Professional do your work.

Renovated a 2 story, 3 bedroom and 1 1/2 bath apartment. Kitchen contains beautiful black granite counter-tops with extensive cabinet space. Two separate chrome sink work areas with mirrors and recessed lighting containing multiple switches and dimmers. Hanging lite glass cabinets for displaying china. Beautiful marble ceiling in dining room with decorative marble columns. Canned lights with separate dimmer switches for chandelier. Living room has specialized areas with spot lighting for displaying crystal. Italy glass is used for beautiful finishing touch. Same in foyer. Half bath has unique black stone work surrounding the floor and hand made mirror attached to the wall Under this mirror is a stunning glass counter top with a chrome sink and chrome mounts. A cute handmade wall cove with a stone shelf as an additional cosmetic feature. A beautiful and creative living space that's full of class. Quality style and workmanship. Give them a try if you need someone to design a unique living space or deck.

Constructed a 2 story, 3 bedroom and 1 1/2 bath apartment. Kitchen contains beautiful black granite counter-tops with extensive cabinet space. Two separate chrome sink work areas with mirrors and recessed lighting containing multiple switches and dimmers. Hanging lite glass cabinets for displaying china. Beautiful marble ceiling in dining room with decorative marble columns. Canned lights with separate dimmer switches for chandelier. Living room has specialized areas with spot lighting for displaying crystal. Italy glass is used for beautiful finishing touch. Same in foyer. Half bath has unique black stone work surrounding the floor and hand made mirror attached to the wall Under this mirror is a stunning glass counter top with a chrome sink and chrome mounts. A cute handmade wall cove with a stone shelf as an additional cosmetic feature. A beautiful and creative living space that's full of class. Quality style and workmanship. Give them a try if you need someone to design a unique living space or deck.

We were looking for options to expand our kitchen storage and called upon Allen for some ideas. The existing laundry room was adjacent to the kitchen. Allen took his time to provide ideas and give sensible options while staying within our budget. Ultimately, we decided to relocate the laundry to an existing hallway closet adjacent to the bedrooms. This allowed us to convert the existing laundry room to a very sizable pantry for our kitchen. Allen reconstructed the back of the closet to allow for adequate space for the washer and dryer. The doorway trim and baseboards were replaced and the closet was plastered and repainted. A few existing floor boards were replaced and stained to match the existing floor way. New copper piping, gas lines, dryer ventilation, and PVC drainage pipes were installed for the laundry relocation. New shut off valves were also installed within the laundry closet for both gas and water. Due to the proximity of the new laundry location and the existing bathtub, the bathtub drainage pipes were also replaced. We are extremely happy with new laundry room location and abundance of space in our new kitchen pantry. The entire project was professionally done and at half the cost of other estimates since Allen was able to everything himself. He purchased and supplied receipts for all materials utilized on the job. The entire project was done for below $3,000 including materials. We would highly recommend Allen and his services for any household project and we will definitely be using him again in the future.