Decks are one of the more affordable home improvement projects. You can easily have one made with a limited budget and short timeline. If you choose to resell the house, your deck can be a focal feature for indoor-outdoor living. This is a major bonus for potential homebuyers.
So why are people obsessed with indoor-outdoor living in the first place?
For one thing, it is great for physical and mental health. Many homeowners use their deck for light exercise and activities. There you can get fresh air and sunlight, which can improve your circadian rhythm. Over time, these all contribute to less anxiety, better sleep, and an active lifestyle.
A deck can be a great way to spend more time outside without leaving all the comforts of home. If you want to create the perfect deck, you should find the right team for the job.
Things You Should Look For In A Deck Builder
Finding the right deck builder is much like finding a team for any other kind of home improvement project. They must know what to do and do it well. And since these people will be in your personal and private space, it would be best if they know how to respect boundaries.
It would be easier to pick the most popular service on the web or select one frequently on ads. However, companies can buy these things. It doesn’t reflect the quality of the service. If you want to get the best deck builder for the job, pay attention to these key things:
They Are Locals
Always narrow down your search to your immediate area. Stick with services that are in the same town or city. Nation-wide services may have their moments, but they are stretched thin. You cannot vouch for the quality of services in City A versus City B.
When you work with a local company – there are several things you can determine:
- They probably service other locals.
- They have a better idea of the requirements needed for the build in your state.
- They are probably doing something right if they can compete with larger businesses.
They are better equipped for the job and can quickly respond to emergencies. When it comes to deck building, look for local companies.
They Are Experienced, Licensed, And Bonded
The next thing you need to pay attention to is their credentials. Building contractors don’t need a degree, though it is becoming increasingly popular. A high school diploma or an associate’s degree should be enough.
Instead of looking at their educational background, pay closer attention to their license and resume. It would be more telling of their qualifications and work ethic. Ask them the following questions:
- Have you ever worked on a deck project before?
- How many projects have you taken on?
- What are the common issues in deck building, and how did you fix them?
In the construction business, working on-site is the ultimate teacher. If they passed the contractor exam and have the experience – you are good to go.
Read More: Things to Consider When Hiring a Licensed General Contractor
They Offer Affordable Rates
Construction is a very competitive field. You’ll find deck building companies that undercharge and overcharge – both aren’t good. When you work with a cheap contractor, they’ll skimp on material and labor to save on costs. You could end up with a shoddy deck.
At the same time, you shouldn’t trust companies that overcharge. They often offer a premium experience, and that is okay for some. But if you plan on using your deck as an investment, the numbers might not translate to added value. Decks usually recoup 65% of the total cost during the sale of the house. You can’t get that amount back with an overpriced build.
Look for a deck building company that manages to stay in the middle. Settle on something that is not too cheap and not too expensive. It should be competitive but fair.
Send your inquiries to multiple companies and compare the quotes. You should be able to get a good idea of the going rates in your area.
They Have The Right Temperament For The Job
Construction isn’t easy work, and tensions can run high. Communication is key in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free build. It’s best to work with a deck-building crew that can keep a cool head.
You should also make it a point to work with deck builders who respect your space. While decks don’t take long to build, there are environmental factors to consider. Loose soil and poor weather can stretch the timeline. You wouldn’t want to be stuck with a crew you cannot trust.
So, how do you know if they are the right person for the job?
You’ll have to rely on the opinions of previous clients. Ask family and friends if they have ever tried the service. Check the testimonials on their website and review forums. You can even request a letter of recommendation. Use these as points of reference. The hours you spend on research will pay off in the end.
As long as you stick to these 4 steps, you are sure to find the best deck builder in your area.