CHS Custom Decks & Design Builds Multi-Level Composite Decks in Stillwater MN

How Multi-Level Deck Designs Solve Sloped Lot and Walkout Basement Challenges in Stillwater MN

Apple Valley, United States – May 8, 2026 / CHS Custom Decks & Design /

CHS Custom Decks & Design Elevates Stillwater, MN Homes with Multi-Level Composite Deck Construction

Stillwater, MN — Multi-level decks have moved from luxury features to practical solutions for Stillwater homeowners working with sloped lots, walkout basements, and elevated views of the St. Croix River. CHS Custom Decks & Design builds these tiered structures using composite materials engineered to perform across Minnesota’s full range of seasonal conditions.

The appeal of a multi-level design lies in how it organizes outdoor activity. Separate tiers create natural zones for cooking, dining, lounging, and quiet conversation without walls or barriers, allowing homeowners to host gatherings of varying sizes while preserving the open feel of the outdoor space.

Why Composite Materials Suit Multi-Level Construction

Composite decking has become the preferred material for multi-level projects in northern climates because of how it handles temperature swings between humid summers and sub-zero winters. The dimensional stability of composite means boards stay flat across large continuous surfaces, which matters when a single deck spans multiple tiers visible from above. CHS Custom Decks & Design works with Trex and TimberTech by Azek, both recognized for cold-weather performance and color consistency across large installations.

Composite is not the only choice on the table, however. Some homeowners prefer the natural grain of cedar, redwood, or exotic hardwoods such as Ipe, Tigerwood, and Cumaru for specific tiers, while others request PVC decking for pool-adjacent levels where moisture exposure runs high. The company helps clients evaluate trade-offs between materials based on each tier’s intended use, sun exposure, and proximity to water features.

Designing Around Stillwater’s Distinct Property Conditions

Stillwater’s terrain rewards thoughtful design. Walkout basements naturally call for upper and lower deck levels connected by stairs, while sloped backyards work well with cantilevered or raised decks that extend outward from the home. Our local team begins each project with a design consultation that maps these property characteristics, followed by 3D deck models that show homeowners exactly how the multi-level design will sit on their lot before construction begins.

Style options extend well beyond the multi-level format. The company also builds platform decks, freestanding decks, rooftop decks, pool decks, curved decks, cantilevered decks, screened porches and decks, and covered decks for clients whose properties or preferences call for a different approach. Privacy screens are available for specific zones, and wheelchair ramps can be integrated into any design without compromising the overall look.

Engineering the Structure to Last

The longevity of a multi-level deck comes down to what sits beneath the surface. CHS Custom Decks & Design installs deck footings using helical piers, diamond piers, or traditional concrete footings, with the choice driven by soil conditions, deck weight, and the specific load each level must support. Helical piers often suit Stillwater’s varied soil profiles, while diamond piers and concrete footings remain reliable for projects where local conditions favor those approaches.

Deck framing materials include wood, aluminum, and PWT pressure-treated LVL, with brand options from TimberTech Aluminum and KDAT Lumber. For multi-level designs where the lower tier covers usable space, underdeck systems convert that area into a dry, functional zone. CHS Custom Decks & Design installs panel-based systems, gutter-and-channel systems, and custom fabricated systems matched to the project’s design and the homeowner’s intended use of the space below.

Finishing Details and Long-Term Service

Deck skirting plays a significant role in how a multi-level structure presents from a distance. The company offers lattice skirting, solid wood panels, horizontal or vertical boards, stone or brick skirting, faux stone panels, vinyl skirting, and composite deck skirting to suit different architectural styles. These finishing details transform an exposed substructure into a clean, intentional design element.

Beyond new builds, CHS Custom Decks & Design supports existing deck owners with deck inspection, deck resurfacing, deck addition, deck remodeling, deck rebuild, and deck replacement services. Multi-level expansions are among the most common requests, with homeowners often adding tiers to single-level decks to gain functional separation and increased outdoor capacity. Permit acquisition is handled by the company throughout every project to keep homeowners free of administrative work.

About CHS Custom Decks & Design

CHS Custom Decks & Design is a professional deck contractor serving residential and commercial property owners throughout Stillwater, MN and surrounding communities. The company specializes in custom decking projects, multi-level construction, underdeck systems, and deck remodeling using premium materials from leading industry brands.

Every project is backed by experienced designers, skilled installers, and responsive client communication from initial consultation through final walkthrough. CHS Custom Decks & Design delivers outdoor structures built to match each homeowner’s vision while standing up to the demands of Minnesota weather. For more information or to schedule a design consultation, contact CHS Custom Decks & Design at (651) 368-2661. See how to get here to visit the office or confirm service coverage in your area.