How to hire a contractor to build a deck?
Finding a deck contractor is easy. The challenge is finding the right deck builder for your project. There are several important ways to qualify a contractor before considering them for hire.
1. Verify they are licensed. In the state of Virginia, this can be done though the state licensing board website. Search their company name or any part or it. To verify a Virginia Contractor’s License, Click Here
2. Verify the contractor is insured. Deck contractors should be able to readily provide a certificate of their insurance showing General Liability, Automotive and Workman’s Comp coverage. These are three separate policies identified on a Certificate of Insurance.
3. Research their reputation. Look for feedback from their customers through online and social media searches.
4. Review their contract. Look for a detailed scope of work, estimated start and completion dates, specific price and any applicable contingencies.
5. Ask questions. Here are some examples:
· Do you foresee any additional expenses arising in the course from this project?
· Is it possible additional expenses may occur? If so, do you have examples?
· Are your employees or subcontractors properly insured?
· Will you provide a release of lien after completion should it be requested?
· Do you require a deposit and progress payments?
DO YOU NEED A PERMIT TO BUILD A DECK?
Yes, for sure. DIY homeowners and contractors building decks are responsible to obtain a building permit to construct a deck. This certainly pertains to decks with roof or enclosures. All decks are considered structures. They have load bearing points and areas where wind can cause up-lift. There are building codes outlined to build a code compliant deck. A licensed contractor is required to apply for permits and pass building inspections.
WHEN DO I MAKE MY FINAL PAYMENT TO MY DECK CONTRACTOR?
It is advised to make final payment once the entire scope of work is completed to include passing final inspection. It is important to review the completion of the deck project. Make sure you ask questions and discuss any concerns.
WHAT TYPE OF DECKS ARE THERE?
Deck builders offer a lot of choices as there are many material and design options. A deck frame will be constructed with pressure treated wood which typically comes in a grade of #1 or #2 wood with #1 being the cleaner cut of lumber. The decking is usually comprised of #1 5/4”x 6” pressure treated wood or composites material, ie. Trex, Timbertech or Azek. The railings are usually #1 pressure treated wood, composite, vinyl, aluminum or iron.
WHAT IS A COMPOSITE DECK?
Enhance your outdoor living space with the ultimate in composite decking. Requiring no painting or staining, wood plastic composites are quickly becoming the premier choice for low maintenance, worry free decking building materials. Find out how affordable and convenient composite decking is!
WHY ARE DECKS BUILT WITH PRESSURE TREATED WOOD?
Pressure treated wood is chemically treated to increase rot resistance and prevent damage from insects. With excellent features such as its resistance to fungal decay and termites as well as its attractive price-point, pressure treated wood is an outstanding choice to use for the construction of your deck.
What windows are used for covered decks and 3 or 4 seasons deck/room?
Covered decks don’t always have windows, but when they do, the decision on window type is based on seasons. A three-season deck is not meant to be climate controlled, at least not all day or every day. For that reason, normal residential windows would be overkill. A less expensive option are windows with plastic instead of glass. There are several manufactures, like Ezebreeze. A four-season room is generally designed to maintained temperature conditioned space year-round or a tighter thermal seal providing better quicker efficiency when wanting to condition the space.
HOW MUCH DOES A COMPOSITE DECK COST PER SQUARE FOOT?
The cost per square foot to build a composite deck will vary. Decks built with composite decking will very and likely fall withing $40-$80 per square feet. Factors involved: framing design, footer and beam size, product line within composite deck choices. Common composite deck manufactures are Trex or Timbertech. Trex decks and Timbertech decking are very similar in size, shape, but will have variations in color and coating thickness. This deck type is commonly built with the addition of vinyl railings or iron railings.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BUILD A WOOD DECK?
The cost to build a wood deck varies, just like composite, but with less options. Quality wood decks are built using #1 pressure treated lumber which is a higher grade having less knots. The wood will look cleaner. Ranges in square foot cost to build a pressure treated wood decks are commonly found $30-60 per square foot.
CREATIVE DECK DESIGNS
Deck designs are fun and can be quick, simple or complex. Elaborate deck designs can be found on multi-level decks, deck stair landings allowing for a change in direction as the steps continue and in harmony with the landscape or grade.
FREDERICKSBURG VA DECK BUILDERS
With so many deck companies to choose from, pick one with a track record for growth and deck company reviews that clearly demonstrate happy clients. A good deck company will answer the phone, follow up, know their numbers and return quick fair estimates. Not every company that builds decks builds relationships, but the good ones will continue to be there for their client years to come. Sometimes, issues arise, and you’ll want a company to listen to your concerns. After all, this is construction. Things don’t always go to plan but making adjustments and making it right is vital to a decking company’s success.
