Hire A Deck Contractor

By Author: Blue Star Carpentry
Total Articles: 35
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Building a new deck for backyard entertainment will go smoothly if you know how to hire the right deck builder.
A well-designed deck can be a wonderful addition to a home -- providing outdoor space for relaxing and entertaining. It's essential that any deck installation project be done properly with solid footings, structural supports and efficient egress to and from the house.

If you decide to build a deck yourself, make sure you learn how to do it right. If you decide to hire a deck builder, here are tips on how to get the best outcome.

Plan your deck
A contractor can help solidify plans for your deck, but you should have a good idea about the scope of the project yourself before contacting a pro. You'll want to consider some components of the job in advance, including the following:

• The deck's layout

• Number of stories

• Staircases and coverings

• Materials -- natural wood or man-made composite?

• The type of railings

• Fire pits, benches and other special features

Check reviews, recommendations and licensing
If friends or neighbors ...
... have recently had a deck built, ask about their experience, good or bad, and whether they'd recommend the contractor.

To find reviews of deck building contractors in your area, search Angie's List for "decks." Most states have licensing requirements for deck builders. You can find the appropriate website for your state by checking the Angie’s List License Check tool.

Interview deck builders
After the research phase, you should ideally narrow your list to three or four potential deck builders. Contact them, and ask the following:

• How long have you been in the business?

• Are you locally licensed?

• Are you insured?

• Can you provide me with the name of your insurance carrier?

• Do you offer a warranty on the work?

• Do you handle local permitting concerns?

• When could you start the project and how long do you think it will take?

• Do you always have a supervisor or owner on-site during the work?

• How comfortable are you working with the material I choose for my deck's construction?

• Can you give me a couple of references that I can contact?