So, you're thinking about building a new deck, or maybe it's finally time to replace that old, sun-baked one. That's a big step! But before you just hire the first person you find, you really need to know how to pick the right pro. I've been in this business a long time here in Coolidge, and believe me, I've seen it all — the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. Here’s what I always tell folks to keep an eye out for.
What to Ask Potential Deck Builders
Don't be shy. This is your home, after all, and your money. You absolutely have the right to ask tough questions. Here are some of the most important ones:
- How long have you been building decks specifically? A general contractor might be perfectly capable, but deck building has its own little quirks, especially with our intense Arizona sun and those monsoon seasons. You really want someone who understands wood expansion, how to properly set footings in our rocky soil, and which materials will actually stand up to the heat.
- Can you give me references from recent deck projects? And please, don't just take their word for it. Call those people. Ask them about how communication went, if the project stayed on schedule, and if they'd hire the builder again.
- Are you licensed, bonded, and insured here in Arizona? This isn't optional, folks. A legitimate contractor will have all three. Ask for proof, too, not just a quick "yes."
- What kind of warranty do you offer on both labor and materials? A good builder stands behind their work, right? Make sure you know exactly what's covered and for how long.
- Who will actually be doing the work? Is it your own crew or subcontractors? It's not necessarily a problem if they use subs, but you need to know who's ultimately responsible and who you'll be talking to if something comes up.
- How do you handle changes or unexpected issues during the project? Things happen, that's just life. A good contractor has a clear process for change orders and, just as important, keeps you in the loop.
- What's the payment schedule look like? Never, ever pay the full amount upfront. A typical schedule usually involves a deposit, then progress payments as the work gets done, and a final payment once you're completely happy with everything.
What a Solid Quote Looks Like
You'll probably get some quotes that are just a number scribbled on a napkin, and then you'll get detailed proposals. You definitely want the detailed one, trust me. Here's what it should include:
- A line-item breakdown: This means separate costs for everything: materials (lumber, fasteners, decking, railing), labor, permits, demolition, and any other extras. If it's just one big number, how can you possibly know what you're paying for?
- Specific materials: It shouldn't just say