Why You Should Hire a Decking Installer

Building a deck is a popular home improvement project that can boost your property’s value and offer you an additional space for entertaining and relaxing. To ensure that the deck you build meets your specifications, it’s best to hire a professional.

A reputable contractor will give proper guidance on the right materials and know where to source them. They will also provide a target completion date and inform you of any bumps in the road.

Cost-effectiveness

Labor accounts for a significant portion of decking installation costs. While it may seem that homeowners can cut costs by sidestepping the cost of a professional and hiring a neighbor who is an experienced handyman, this route can be costly in the long run.

A skilled deck contractor knows how to install a deck that will withstand different weather conditions without causing leaks or other damage. For example, they know that a certain gap is required between the end of a board and joist to allow for expansion and contraction of the wood due to differences in temperature.

Licensed contractors also understand how to make sure your new deck is in compliance with your local building codes. This includes obtaining a permit, if needed.

Time-saving

A professional decking installer will create detailed build plans, ensuring the project will be completed properly the first time. This saves homeowners from having to deal with costly mistakes and rework down the road.

A reputable contractor will also be transparent about the work they plan to do and their expected timelines. If there are any bumps in the road, they’ll communicate with you as soon as possible so that the project isn’t pushed back significantly.

A good builder will also be able to offer warranties and protection for their work. This is important because it ensures that the deck will last for as long as possible and will be repaired in a timely manner should a problem arise. This gives homeowners peace of mind and provides a good return on their investment.

Choosing the Right Materials

The right materials are vital for keeping your deck functional, safe and beautiful. You’ll want to consider what you plan to use your deck for and choose the material that will be most suitable.

For example, if you’re looking for durability, opt for natural woods like ipe and western red cedar, both of which score high on the Janka hardness scale. If you’re concerned about environmental sustainability, consider premium composite materials.

You’ll also need to consider footings, which are concrete columns below grade that support your posts. These must be deep enough to prevent frost heave on sites where the soil freezes and thaws frequently. To ensure your deck is properly secured, you should use bolts and screws instead of nails. Lastly, be sure to use spacers to ensure your fasteners are evenly distributed.

Compliance with Building Codes

Local building codes may require a permit for deck construction. These regulations are intended to ensure the safety of occupants and maintain property standards. They vary by state. Some are more stringent than others. For example, local regulations may specify a maximum riser height or tread depth on stairs and require certain types of ledger boards.

Local building code requirements also cover details like joist hangers, fasteners and metal connectors. These must be used as specified in the manufacturers’ instructions, and they must be placed properly to avoid a structural failure.

Many states have specific requirements for the type of wood used for decking and rails. It is important to choose wood that has been evaluated for compliance with these requirements. A reputable deck contractor will comply with all local and national building codes.

Warranty and Protection

A good decking installer should also be able to offer quality warranties that protect homeowners. It is important for homeowners to carefully read their warranties and to understand what they are protected against. A warranty that is long in terms of time does not necessarily mean much if it doesn’t provide homeowners with real protection.

NOTE: The use of wood products generates dust, which may cause respiratory problems in some individuals. It is recommended that all persons working with these materials wear a dust mask and safety glasses.

Duradek warrants the waterproofing component of its vinyl deck surface to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal residential use and service for a period of 20 years after substantial completion. This warranty is transferable to a new owner.

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