After setting up an appointment, we will come out to your home to take measurements of the area where the deck will go and discuss with you your plans for that space to create a design. We carry samples of different products, and share our photo gallery with you as well. We will provide you with a written estimate and architectural drawing, giving you options for the different materials you are interested in, as well as a list of references of many past customers we have worked with. If you choose us as your builder, we ask for a 10% down payment to be added to our schedule, and the balance will be due upon completion of your deck.
What will my new deck cost?
There are many factors that affect the price of your deck, from layout and elevation to the materials that you choose. When we meet with you, we will discuss the price ranges you can expect for the deck you want, and make sure that what we build fits your backyard needs and budget.
How long does it take to build a deck?
Most projects that we build take 1 – 2 days to complete. If we start a job one day, we will continue to work until that job is completed, weather permitting. We do not start a job then leave it to build another.
What does the Trex Pro Gold contractor certification mean?
Trex has identified the largest contractors in the US and Canada, and we are the largest Trex builder in the state of Wisconsin in terms of volume of Trex purchased. As a Trex Pro Gold contractor, you can be assured that we have received yearly training, at Trex’s facilities, on their products and installation methods.
How deep are the footings for our new deck?
We typically dig a 4’ deep hole and place at the bottom a preformed concrete pad. Our footing then goes in that hole (4x4 or 6x6 for elevated decks), and we backfill with pea gravel. We prefer that the footings be planted in the ground, they will be more solid than placed on top of a concrete poured footing and give your deck more strength.
Do you recommend attaching the deck to the home?
Yes, we do recommend attaching, especially in a home 10 years old or newer. When the home was constructed, excavation was done around your foundation, and the earth around your home will settle for several years. By attaching to the home, we are able to keep most/all footings away from the house, away from the excavation work. That allows your deck to be on much stronger ground, and will stay level.
Do you fasten your decks with screws or nails?
It is our preference to screw down deck floors unless the floor manufacture requires a different system (clips, etc). Screws have superior holding power to nails, can be removed without damaging the floor, and if screwed through the top, hold the flooring down. There are some ‘hidden’ fastener systems which can be used, but we prefer the screw down method.
