Adding a new deck to your home or renovating an existing structure may seem like a project you can handle yourself. However, if there is one thing you can learn from watching HDTV home renovation shows, there are always surprises along the way. That’s why calling a custom deck company to design and build your deck can be worth it.
Having an established deck contractor’s expertise on your team will ensure the result is picture perfect and will last for years to come. In the Twin Cities and Minnesota region, Dupont Decks is a go-to source for deck building and repair. Contact us today for a free estimate on your custom deck building project.
Can I build my deck myself?
Adding a deck to your home outdoor space is a project that some DIY-ers might find accessible. However, there can be challenging elements to the process that an experienced deck contractor can handle with ease.
Here are a few reasons why hiring a deck building contractor is worth it.
Experience
Choose a company that has years of builds under their work belt. There is no replacement for a contractor who has seen it all. Your contractor can spot potential problems quickly and know how to solve them. Additionally, a more experienced contractor can give you a more accurate timeline and initial bid as you are pricing out the costs for the deck.
Established deck contractors are the best choice for custom designs. If you want to incorporate multiple elements into your deck, choose someone with a proven track record. An experienced deck builder will be able to transform your yard into the outdoor living space of your dreams. Plus, they’ll know which deck materials to source for your project to ensure that it is a long-lasting and beautiful deck.
Expertise
Finding a contractor with a proven track record will guarantee your satisfaction with your completed home deck. There should be a history of pleased customers who are happy to share their stories. Notice what styles of decks they can build. From wood decks to composite decks, your contractor should know which materials are best for your build.
Your contractor knows how to fast-track the project to ensure timely completion. A deck contractor will know the requirements necessary to build everything to the legal building codes. If you plan on selling your home in the future, potential buyers will want to know that contractors built the structure to code.
Someone else to deal with the red tape
Building any significant structures onto a home may require a trip to the permit office at your local city hall. You will need to have your build approved and be crystal clear on any underground electrical or gas lines. This process can be tricky and time-consuming.
A contractor with experience understands the permitting process. They also may need to provide architectural designs or blueprints to the permit office. Here, a deck contractor’s expertise will save you so much time and energy.
Additionally, the crew will mark out any gas or electrical lines before they start building. Keeping track of these details is a job best left to the professionals.
What to look for in a deck contractor
Experience is important, but what else should factor into your decision?
Communication
When reaching out to contractors, notice their communication style. Do they call you back right away? Are they available to answer questions? Do you feel like they really are listening or just trying to move you along the process?
When you hire someone to build your custom deck or repair an existing deck, these are good questions to have in mind. You want to know that the contractor will be sure to keep you abreast of any timeline changes or other issues that may arise during the project. Solid customer service will make sure you are satisfied throughout the building process.
Licensing
Any contractor worth their salt will have the correct licensing. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure they have liability insurance and that they pay into Workman’s Compensation for any employees they have on-site as well. It is important to know that your deck is built to code and that you will not be financially responsible if there are any accidents.
Consistency
This is a top priority quality to find in a deck contractor. You want to know they will commit to the project and see it to the end. Check out examples of past decks they’ve built and read through testimonials to ensure that your contractor has a proven track record.
You can even check their rating with the Better Business Bureau.
If you notice any red flags during the initial consultations, pay attention. Choose instead to go with a contractor who can prove to you that they are trustworthy.
Step by Step towards the Deck of Your Dreams
Beginning a new home build can feel overwhelming. So many decisions need to be made along the way, and there may be limitations to factor in. How do you get started?
Start with a vision
Find inspiration by looking around at other decks in your area. You can also consult home design catalogs or online to find decks that match your aesthetic and are suitable for your space.
Consider how you want the space to function.
Do you want it to include:
- An outdoor living space
- An outdoor kitchen
- A fire pit
- Flower beds or trellises
Make a plan
Once you have a vision of what you’d like, it’s time to make a plan. This is where consulting with a deck-building expert is crucial to your planning process.
They can help you narrow down your vision into a blueprint for success and ensure that the proper permits are secured. You will find out which materials will be best suited to your build and finalize the placement of key elements in your new deck.
Execution of your vision
Watch as the contractors make your vision come to life. Your new deck is going to be fantastic. When you hire a custom deck company to execute your vision, you get to kick back, relax, and watch the magic happen!
Call a Custom Deck Company
Dupont Decks can offer all of this and more. We are in the business of making our customers happy with our emphasis on customer service and rock-solid results.
As a family-run deck company, we know how important it is to have a happy home. Contact us today to set up a home visit and free estimate so that we can make your vision become a reality.
