A Basic Guide to Hiring a Deck Contractor

Save for a few specifics, choosing a deck contractor is much like looking for a remodeling or roofing contractor. The objective is the same: find a contractor that you can count on to finish your deck on time, within budget, and as designed. In this blog, V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding, Inc. shares a basic guide on hiring a deck contractor.

Contractor Credentials

The State of Connecticut issues two types of contractor licenses: major contractors are licensed to work on institutional residences such as hotels, care homes, and commercial properties. Minor contractors, on the other hand, are licensed to work on residential properties. Your deck contractor needs to have the latter if you intend to hire them for decking work.

You may be wondering, why is a license so important? One reason is because it is your assurance that the contractor is legitimately operating in your area, as opposed to some fly-by-night operation. You can also have the confidence that your deck or roofing will comply with all applicable building codes. If a contractor claims to represent a brand of decking material, then you have to check with the manufacturer if the contractor is an authorized installer.

References

Your prospective contractor should have no problems providing at least three references. You will have to devote time to call each one, but it often pays off; it’s one of the best ways to filter many candidates. In addition to questions about the quality of work, don’t forget to ask about whether or not they encountered delays during deck installation, and how the contractor handled it.

Written Quotation

The terms “estimate” and “quote” are used interchangeably, but are actually two different things. An estimate, as the name implies, is a contractor’s estimate of the project cost. The final project cost will be likely different. A quotation, on the other hand, is a document that includes, among other things, a detailed calculation of the installation cost. Once a client signs a quote, it becomes the contract.

A legitimate deck contractor should be able to provide a written quotation shortly after an inspection. If they refuse to do so, or if they tell you you’ll get one “in the mail,” these are red flags. A contractor should at least send a representative to deliver the quote and answer follow-up questions.

V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding, Inc. is your leading provider of roof repair and installation services. Give us a call at (203) 639-1634 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.