It is important to hire a deck contractor that can provide you with a wonderful and safe space to relax and entertain. You may have dreams of outdoor sound systems and seating areas that you want your deck builder to accommodate, but you also want to hire a knowledgeable professional who will take serious safety measures such as egress and structural supports into consideration.
Planning
Have a general project scope in mind before contacting a contractor. What type of layout and how many stories would you like your deck to be? What type of materials would you like to use? How many staircases and where will they be located? What special features do you want to be sure to include?
Researching, Interviewing, and References
Start researching area deck contractors online and look at their reviews and licensing. Ask friends and neighbors who have recently had a deck built about their experience and if they’d recommend their contractor. Narrow your list to three or four and begin contacting them. Some important information you need to get from each contractor is how long they have been in business, if they are locally licensed and insured (find out the name of their carrier), and if they offer a warranty on their work. You’ll also want to find out their stance on local permits and project time frames. Finally, ask for references and check them! Past clients can give you insight into how the contractor completed their project (on time and budget, actions of the crew, etc) as well as tell you how they enjoy their completed product. If possible, ask if you can see their deck to inspect the contractor’s craftsmanship.
Get a Written Estimate
You will probably have a favorite contractor at this point, as well as a backup. Invite these contractors to your site to provide you with a written estimate of costs. Your estimate should include an hourly labor cost, a detailed breakdown of materials, and clean up costs.
Hiring
When you make your decision you will sign a contract that should include all costs (total price with breakdown of deposit, final payment terms, and cost for any changes of direction) covering the complete scope of work. The contract should also include a copy of the contractor’s license and insurance documentation, details for design approval, securing permits, and clean up details. Be sure that the contract also includes a statement that the contractor is responsible for any damage to your home or its grounds during construction.
At Atlanta Porch & Patio, we deliver the ultimate professional experience with every step of our projects. After setting up a consultation through our website or by calling the office, we will meet with you in your home to discuss all of your ideas and concerns. After our initial meeting and site consultation, we will compile a detailed design plan and quote complete with renderings and a full listing of the materials to be used. Upon your approval, we will then draw up the necessary paperwork and decide on a project start date. From demo to cleanup, we strive to deliver your ultimate your outdoor living space on time and on budget. Our mission is to turn our clients’ ideas, dreams, and visions into personalized, tangible outcomes to enjoy for years to come. Our team of builders and craftsmen are licensed, insured, and always up to date on trends, products, designs, and building codes. As a client of Atlanta Porch & Patio, you’ll rest easy knowing that each step of your project will be performed to the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and dependability.