Top Five Questions to Ask When Hiring a Deck Builder

Expand your living space with an outdoor family room, kitchen or dining area expertly designed and built by an experienced contractor. Virginia homeowners need to hire the right deck builder to maximize their investment and these five questions will help to narrow down the competition, making the hiring process easier.

For quick side-by-side comparisons, write down each contractor’s answers to the following questions:

# 1 – How Long Have You Been In Business?

Experienced Virginia deck builders have the construction knowledge and design expertise your project deserves. Why spend your hard earned money to provide training for a new contractor? Invest in a deck builder that has worked in the local area for years.

Experienced companies can also supply a list of current references. Check those references, and pay careful attention to recent customers as well as past clients. This range allows you to form an accurate overall picture of the contractor’s experience.

# 2 – Will You Send Qualified and Trained Workers to Build My Deck?

Even the most established companies need to hire new staff, but try to arrange for an experienced employee to supervise your project. This ensures that complications and unforeseen circumstances are handled efficiently and with professionalism.

Ask for the lead hand’s name, if possible, and introduce yourself when the crew arrives. This establishes a good working relationship and sets a pattern for polite, upfront communication throughout your project.

# 3 – What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer on Materials and Workmanship?

Many decking contractors have warranties, but you’ll need the details of this coverage to properly compare one deck builder to another. Does their warranty cover faulty workmanship and inferior materials? What type of quality controls are in place? And how long does the warranty last?

Find out the procedure for warranty claims, and check with the local Better Business Bureau to uncover the company’s history and customer service record. You want to hire an experienced deck builder that will provide professional designs, top quality materials and skilled installation, but stay away from companies with poor service records. Hiring a reliable contractor is a wise investment.

# 4 – What Design Ideas Do You Have For My Yard?

Even if you have a clear deck design in mind, ask for advice and recommendations. An experienced, skilled contractor can offer insight and point out problems you may have overlooked. For those who need direction on design and/or material selection, this question helps to uncover the contractor with a similar vision and taste.

Consider how each deck builder presents their vision. Some will leave you with a detailed sketch, while others opt for computer designs. Hire a contractor that provides a professional presentation, since the initial design and quotation act as a fair representation of the finished product.

# 5 – What Kind of Pricing Can You Offer?

This question often comes up first. But remember that your deck will be an extension of the family’s living space. It’s worthwhile to invest in an experience professional offering a solid warranty, helpful insights and a winning design. Price should only be considered once you’ve established the above criteria.

Be sure to arrange for at least three quotes on your new deck, and compare the answers that each contractor provides. Hire the ideal deck builder to ensure your outdoor living space is well designed, expertly built and reasonably priced. And then get ready to enjoy the warm weather on your new deck.