So, you're thinking about building that dream deck, huh? That's fantastic. A new deck can totally change how you use your backyard, giving you a perfect spot for parties or just a quiet corner to soak in those Colorado evenings. But finding the right contractor? That's where a lot of folks get stuck.
I've been doing this for a long time, and believe me, I've seen it all – the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. You definitely don't want to hire some fly-by-night outfit that'll leave you with a half-finished job or, worse, a deck that crumbles after one snowy Lakewood winter. Here's my straight-up advice on how to pick a solid, trustworthy deck builder.
What Should You Ask a Deck Contractor?
Don't hold back. This is your money and your home, after all. You've got every right to ask the tough questions. These are the big ones:
- Are you licensed and insured? This isn't something you can compromise on. They need a current contractor's license from the state and general liability insurance. Ask for proof, too. A good contractor will have it ready to go. If they hesitate, that's a huge red flag.
- Can I see your portfolio and references? Any builder worth their salt will have photos of their past work. Even better, they'll gladly give you a few recent client references. Call those people! Ask if the project stayed on budget, how communication was, and if they'd hire them again.
- How long have you been in business? Experience really counts here. Someone who's been around for a while probably knows the ins and outs, understands the local building codes, and has a proven track record.
- Who will actually be doing the work? Your own crew or subcontractors? Some companies use their own employees; others farm everything out. Neither approach is inherently bad, but you should know who's going to be on your property. Just make sure everyone's covered by insurance.
- What's your warranty on labor and materials? A good contractor stands behind their work. You'll want a clear warranty spelled out for both the craftsmanship and the materials.
- How do you handle permits and inspections? Building a deck almost always requires permits in Lakewood. Your contractor should be familiar with the process and handle pulling all the necessary permits. They should also know when inspections are needed and schedule them.
Decoding the Deck Quote: What to Look For
You'll probably get a few quotes, which is smart. But don't just jump at the cheapest one. You need to compare apples to apples, right? A good quote should be detailed, not just one big number.
- Detailed Scope of Work: Does it clearly list everything included? Specific materials (what kind of wood, which composite brand, the railing style), demolition of an old deck, footings, framing, decking, stairs, railings, and any extras like benches or lighting.
- Material Specifications: It shouldn't just say