Five Questions to Ask a Skilled Decking Contractor

Summer is in full swing and, like many Chicagoland homeowners, you may have plans to tackle an exterior makeover project. As a deck contractor, I can attest that oftentimes it’s far more economical to expand your home’s living space outside rather than to enlarge or renovate your home’s interior.

If your plans include adding, replacing or updating a deck, asking potential contractors the right questions is an important first step. Below are five questions I recommend every homeowner should ask their deck contractor:

Are you licensed and insured? Make sure the contractor you choose has insurance and the required license to obtain permits by calling the insurance company for verification. Without such coverage, you could be held accountable for property damage or injuries that occur on your property. All experienced TrexPro® partners, such as myself, have a contractor’s license and carry the required general liability insurance required by the states in which they work.

How will the permit process be handled? Nearly every deck building project requires a permit. If you build without the necessary permits, you may have issues with paperwork or have to pay a fine when you try to sell your home. Most deck builders will handle the permit process, but be sure to obtain a copy for your records.

What decking materials do you work with? Your deck is a permanent addition to your home that affects its value, so it’s important to choose a decking material that is long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing. Inquire about your contractor’s experience, as most specialize in building with wood, PVC or composite decking. As a TrexPro, I have completed installation and product training in high-performance, low-maintenance composite decking, which combines unprecedented durability and beauty. Trex offers a ‘good, better, best’ composite decking line up, with three distinct decking collections that allow you to choose the ideal product to meet your outdoor living needs.

What design options do you offer? Design should be done around your family’s functional requirements and personal style. Detailed drawings and written construction specifications are the best way to ensure you get what you envision. Compared to wood and PVC, composite building materials offer a variety of color options for incredible design flexibility to suit the style of any home.

Do you have a warranty policy? Typically a deck builder warranty only covers structural damage related to the construction of the deck, so be sure to also acquire the manufacturer warranty. Working with a TrexPro offers lasting peace-of-mind, as the entire Trex decking collection is backed by a 25-year Limited Fade and Stain Warranty that is unprecedented in the industry.