How to Choose a Deck Contractor

Key Questions to Ask

A well-designed and built deck can be a fantastic addition to your home, providing extra living space and enhancing your outdoor enjoyment. However, constructing a deck can be a complex process, and it’s essential to choose a contractor who understands the intricacies of deck building, and how to choose a deck contractor.

To ensure a safe and successful project, our Almar team thinks you should consider asking the following questions when evaluating contractors:

How to Choose a Deck Contractor

1. What is your experience and qualifications?

Professional Remodeling Contractor: Are they certified or licensed as a remodeling contractor?
Manufacturer Affiliations: Do they have any training or affiliations with major decking manufacturers?
Local Relationships: Do they have connections with local manufacturers’ representatives?
Design Consultation: Can they offer design advice or create custom plans?
Maintenance Tips: Will they provide guidance on deck maintenance and care?

2. Are you Licensed and Insured?

Do they possess the necessary Massachusetts licenses for construction and home improvement work? Which include:
1. MA Construction Supervisors License
2. Home Improvement Contractors Licenses
3. General Liability and Workers Compensations Insurance.

3. Will you provide a layout and written scope of work?

Detailed Scope: Will they provide a comprehensive written scope of work noting materials, and other project details?
Construction Methods: How will the deck be built, and what are the local building code requirements?

4. Will you explain any safety and quality concerns?

Hidden Factors: Are they aware of the hidden factors in constructing the deck that can affect safety? Or town specific regulations?
Framing and Hardware: What type of framing hardware will they use (joist hangers, ledger lock bolts, footing anchors)?
Experience: How many years of experience do they have in deck construction?

5. How is permitting handled?

In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts any project over $1,000 in cost requires a Building Permit from the town. Most towns will require the contractor to fill out a permit application, submit a deck framing plan, and a copy of the contract.

6. Ask Yourself: Do I feel comfortable with this company, will they still be in business and stand by my project if I need them in the future?

Customer Satisfaction: Do they have positive reviews or testimonials from previous customers?
Company Longevity: Will they still be in business and stand behind their work in the future? 

Remember, a well-built deck is an investment in your home. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that you choose a contractor who will deliver a safe, durable, and enjoyable outdoor space.

Our family has been working with families like yours since 1959 years. And it is important to use that everyone works together to create the best possible remodeling experience. We never want to see someone regret the choice they made because they didn’t have all of their options.

If you have questions about your home improvement project or would like more information on decking Contact Almar: (781-826-2577) and watch our videos: http://www.youtube.com/almarbuilding

[1] http://www.nadra.org/consumers/deck_safety_month.html