Cost Estimates for Building Your Dream Deck
By Jennifer Whitehead
Having a deck around some portion of your home has become as understood as having central heating and cooling in your home. Decks have become so common that many builders even consider them a standard feature included in base the price of the home.
For homeowners without decks, adding one is often a daunting proposition. You dream of making that “door to nowhere” an entre to an awesome extension of your living space, but you can’t even visualize the finished product more or less estimate the cost. Your best friend has a friend who is an out of work contractor who could build it cheap, or maybe you could get some plans online and build it yourself?
The most creative and well made decks are always designed and built by a professional, and using a matching service is an efficient and convenient way to locate the professional in your area who will best suit your needs. Without leaving the comfort of your computer, you can answer a few questions about your dream deck and three or four local professionals interested in performing the work will contact you. A word of advice: It’s best not to use multiple matching services because you will become inundated with calls.
Once the matching service processes your request, they will provide you with contact information for several contractors who can meet your needs. Take a moment to browse their company websites, read customer reviews and see if other customers had a good experience.
Before you know it, the contractors will begin calling. As you take a few minutes to talk with them, ask yourself: Are they personable? Did you get a good feeling? Do they seem to understand your needs? Ask them if they are licensed, bonded and insured. Are they familiar with the requirements for permits and inspections in your jurisdiction?
Eventually, the contractors will offer to visit your home for a first hand look at the project. Have a list of questions, so you are able to interview each contractor in a similar manner. Make sure your dream deck is their vision.
Once the contractor offers a proposal make sure you get a written, itemized quote, so you know exactly what work the contractor is going to perform. Compare the various price quotes to see where you are getting your best value. Remember, if you wanted the cheapest contractor you would have hired your friend’s friend! Also when comparing estimates, make sure you are comparing like products: wood alternatives cost more than pressure treated lumber.
As you strive to make your dream a reality, a matching service can be the figurative “first step” you make on your new deck!
About the Author
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| Jennifer Whitehead, JW Professional Services
Jessup, MD 20794
If you would like to re-print this article, please contact the author.
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