5 Tips to Keep in Mind When Hiring a Deck Builder

You may decide to look at your yard and think it’s fine as it is. After all, 78% of home buyers said they would choose a home with a shorter commute even if it came with a smaller yard.

But don’t automatically assume that you won’t be spending a lot of time in your yard and that it doesn’t add value to your home in the long-term.

Let’s look at what you should keep in mind if you want to hire a deck builder who can increase the value of your yard.

1. Communication

A deck is one of the easiest ways to create a place for family and friends to gather and improve your home’s housing value.

One study estimated that an average $10,000 deck added almost $9,000 to the value of the home, which makes it one of the most valuable home improvements you can make.

But you need good communication if you’re going to get great results at a reasonable price. That’s why when you hire your deck builder you should speak to them and rate them on their communication.

The last thing you want is a flaky contractor after you start.

2. Proven Track Record

You must know that decks building is a big investment. This is not the time to give a newbie their start because if it goes wrong, you’re the one paying for it.

Look for a contractor with a proven track record. You can find reviews and recommendations for local deck builders online with a quick Google search. Always look to your fellow homeowners for unbiased reviews.

3. Proof of Licensing and Insurance

Every city and state will have its own set of licenses and certifications. Look up what these are for your area and request that they’re presented to you before beginning the project.

Your deck builder should also have a comprehensive insurance policy. That way if something goes wrong you and your project are fully protected.

4. How Experienced are They?

With 65% of new homeowners looking to spend at least $10,000 in their first year, this is a decision they must get right. A deck is not a cheap investment.

Experience reveals all. Your chosen deck builder should tell you when they started and should have a portfolio of images from other projects.

If you want to put in the work, you could even ask for references to validate their experience.

5. Do They Know What They’re Talking About? 

During the initial consultation period, ask yourself whether they sound knowledgeable about the project. Can they come up with a tailored plan that utilizes your tastes and the layout of your home and yard?

This is why we always recommend an in-person consultation before handing over any money. It’s a great way to discover whether a contractor really knows their stuff.

Last Word – Do You Need a Deck?

There’s no doubt that a deck is one of the best investments you can make. But you also need to make sure that you choose the right contractor.

Follow these tips and you’ll be able to weed out the bad from the good!