What to look for
Here are some tips to get you moving in the right direction for picking your deck contractor.
1) Always pull a permit if need be and it is required for new construction. The permit ensures that a building inspector is inspecting the work completed. Further protecting your interests. Some deck contractors have been using long spans and candelievers recently. This tells me that permits were not pulled, (or if pulled, were not inspected) as that would not pass code. So make sure the inspections from the building department are happening as well.
#2 Quality of materials used. The following are the materials that SHOULD be used. You should always ask questions about the grade of the lumber being used.
a) #1 building materials. We use Mast Road Lumber. They supply #1 pressure treated material, (only 6X6 pressure treated is sold as #2 but is smooth and generally not available in #1) Why is this important? #2 has more knots which weakens the integrity of the material. It costs a little more, but you do not have to worry that your floor joists are going to weaken and break over time.
b) What kind of composite decking? There are many kinds of varying strength and durability. For instance, we offer Trex Transcends which is 5/4"X6". Some composite decking can be as thin as 3/4". It does not seem like much, but it shows in how it lays on the deck. After time, 3/4" will bow between the joists, sometimes even at 1' on center. Composite also can come hollow or "thin skinned", so be sure what you are getting. Make sure that you know what line of Trex is being used on your deck. Grade matters!
c) What are the beams made of? Is it a 2 piece 2X8 beam or 3 piece? 2 piece generally means they will be using 4X4 supports. If their pictures show the 2X8 on the outside of the posts, you would be relying on the structural integrity of the bolts used. The posts (4X4) is holding the whole weight of the deck. It is always better to disperse the weight through the beam, like the headers in your home. It is always disturbing to see a deck high off the ground being supported by 4x4s instead of 6x6s.
d) If you see lumber tags on the ends of the decking in their pictures, this shows a couple of things. Carelessness in the finished product and that they did not square off the edges of the pressure treated. It is near impossible to find a square piece of pressure treated lumber. This shows a lack of integrity and care. Is this the kind of contractor you would like working on your home?
e) Are there bases and caps? Bases dress up the deck. There are many caps that can be used.
We hope this has been helpful!
A deck is an extension of your home, and where most people entertain and relax. Call us today to get started building the deck you dream of! If you would like a free quote for a new or refaced composite deck, pressure treated deck or specialty deck, simply fill out this form and we can set up a time to go over your project with you!
