Questions to Ask Your Deck Builder Before Hiring Them

When you are interviewing possible candidates to build your deck, it’s important to get logistical questions out of the way – such as ensuring they are insured – but you also want to get a sense of what it will be like to work with them.

Depending on the complexity of your deck project, you may be working with this firm and their crew for weeks. Since it’s an outdoor project, decks usually require fewer interruptions to your normal daily life, but it can still be a major hassle to not have complete access to your outdoor space.

A Decking Contractor Should Be Well-Versed in Pulling Permits

If you’re going to have a deck built in your backyard, regardless of whether it’s attached to the house or a standalone deck, you’re going to have to get a deck permit. This is something required by law, and if you build without one and get caught, you’ll likely have to pay a big fine and may even be required to tear your new deck down, whether it’s partially built or completed. Basically, it’s not something that you want to have to go through.

How much of a deposit is required to start work on a residential build in Maryland, Virginia, or the District?

Your contractor may have an impeccable resume and winning smile, but if he or she asks for all the money for your project up front, that’s not only a major red flag—it’s illegal.

Though composite decking takes over the deck and porch markets, pressure-treated wood is still a popular option.  It differentiates itself from its untreated sibling with a special process that gives it a hardier character.  One that is more resistant to moisture, the elements, and general physical damage. It is most commonly used to build playgrounds, boardwalks, poles, and decks.  Design Builders has the details on pressure treated wood in todays blog.

Why modern materials and contemporary designs cost more than traditional decks 

Designing outdoor spaces anywhere, let alone decks in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC., is a careful balancing act between achieving a homeowner's desired look, and their promised budget. When the term " modern" is brought into the equation, however, chances are a design concept will cost at least a little bit more than a traditional deck plan would. Its at this point that you'll have to decide is what makes the most financial sense: a fully modernized deck, a classic high-end deck, or something in-between. Design Builders can help explain.