Custom Deck Contractor
Custom deck contractors are true craftsman. To find one in your area, surf over to one of these 3 websites:
Angie’s List – Contractors can’t pay to be included here and can only be included and reviewed by members like you and me. For $29 you can get a year of access to their contractor reviews.
Renovation Experts – Contractors pay to advertise on this website. You submit your custom deck job information to them and they will have their contractor email you to set up an appointment.
Service Magic – Service Magic is much the same service as Renovation Experts. I’ve used both services and have had moderate success with bot. They are both free however so you’ve nothing to lose.
Where To Get Custom Deck Ideas
Before you call over a contractor to build you a custom deck, get some inspiration from websites like houzz.com and hickorydickorydecks.com. Use their navigation on the left to look at hundreds of different pictures for design inspiration such as decks with roofs, benches, low decks, decks with gazebos, deck lighting, pergolas, planters, and much more. They’ve built them all.
Does Your Contractor Need To Be Licensed?
Hiring a licensed carpenter is absolutely crucial to getting a quality job. You’re taking on too much risk by allowing an unlicensed contractor to build you a deck. They are likely not insured and don’t take their business seriously enough to make it official.
How To Get Good Quotes
When you bring the first contractor to your house let them help you design your dream deck. Get their price and use that same custom deck plan to get at least two more price quotes. The more quotes the better. If one price is substantially higher or lower than the rest, toss it out. Choose the contractor that makes you feel the most comfortable from the ones in the same ballpark price range.
You’ll know the right contractor when you meet him. If no contractors give you a good feeling then get more quotes. You’ll find your remodeling contractor, I promise.
If you’re comfortable with it, ask for referrals from the residential remodeling contractors that you have made it to your short list and call them up. People that are happy with their contractor will usually be very receptive to telling you how wonderful their job came out and often be more than happy to have you come over so they can show off their deck.
Wood Or Composite Decking Options
Before you start laying out your custom deck think about what materials you want to use. Cedar is one of the most popular woods to use but consider composites as well.
If you choose composite materials maintenance drops to zero. No more sanding and staining every few seasons. You also won’t have boards that will crack, warp, or give you splinters and they age. There are lot’s of brands of composites to choose from such as Azek, Trex, Timbertech, Dexx, and many more.
