Your Deck or Porch Remodel or Addition questions, answered
Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on HomeGuide.
How much does it cost to build a deck near me?
The average cost to build a deck is $25 to $50 per square foot or $3,600 to $7,200 on average. The total price depends on local labor costs, wood type, size, level built-on, and if there's seating or stairs built-in.
How long does it take to build a deck?
An average 12'x24' deck takes one to three weeks to build, depending on the size, style, and contractor's experience. A professional team takes under a week to build a standard deck, while a custom deck above the first-level with built-ins takes up to three weeks to finish.
How long does a wood deck last?
A deck made of untreated wood lasts 10 to 30 years, depending on the quality and proper maintenance, sealing, and repairs. Decks made of treated wood and composite materials last 25 to 50 years.
Should I repair or replace my deck?
Wood decks last 10 to 30 years with annual maintenance and repairs before disintegrating and potentially becoming dangerous or collapsing. Consider replacing decks older than 8 years that need major repairs or when the cost of repairs exceeds half the cost of new deck building.
Decks need regular maintenance, sealing, minor repairs, and cleaning annually to remain habitable and safe.
For major repairs, decks eight years old or less can be re-planked and re-railed without compromising the stability and safety of the structure.
Does a deck add value to a home?
Spending $10,000 on a new deck increases the value of a home by $7,500 on average. Adding a deck has a 70% to 80% return on investment when selling the home.
Do you need a permit to build a deck in my area?
A building permit is required if the deck is attached to the home, services a door, over 200 square feet, more than 30 inches above the ground, has plumbing or electricity, or be built in a floodplain. Contact your local building authority to see if you need a permit in your area.
How to find local deck contractors?
To find the best deck companies, do the following:
Get at least three price estimates to compare.
Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.
Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
Select companies that are licensed, bonded, and experienced.
Ask if they are part of their local chamber of commerce or any trade associations such as the North American Deck & Railing Association (NADRA).
Verify their insurance, worker’s compensation, and bond guarantees.
Ask about their warranties and guarantees.
Ask for a full itemized estimate or contract in writing.
Avoid making large payments upfront. Come up with a payment schedule for work completed.
After asking questions, hire the best deck contractor near you.
What questions should you ask deck companies?
When hiring a deck builder, ask them the following questions:
How long have you been a deck contractor?
What decking materials do you experience installing?
What decking material do you recommend for my project?
How many decks have you built?
How much would my deck cost?
What services are included in the cost?
Are there any potential complications you foresee with this project?
Can you provide testimonials and references from past customers?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
How long will the project take?
Do I need permits, and will you obtain them?
What does your warranty policy include?
Can you provide me a written estimate or contract?
What’s your payment schedule?
Are financing options available?
What do I need to provide to get started?
Reviews for Fremont deck builders
Recent success stories from people in the Fremont area.
Guy S.
Lecut Construction recently completed a kitchen remodel for us, and we are beyond thrilled with the results. From the initial design phase to the finishing touches, the team at Lecut Construction demonstrated exceptional skill, professionalism, and attention to detail.
Throughout the project, the communication was excellent - they kept us informed of progress, timelines, and any potential issues that arose. The craftsmanship displayed by their team was truly impressive, and it's clear that they take great pride in delivering high-quality work.
Not only did they transform our kitchen into a beautiful and functional space, but they also provided valuable suggestions and ideas that enhanced the overall design. The project was completed on time and within budget, which was greatly appreciated.
We highly recommend Lecut Construction to anyone considering a kitchen remodel. Their expertise, reliability, and dedication to customer satisfaction make them stand out in the construction industry. Thank you to the entire team at Lecut Construction for making our dream kitchen a reality!
LeCut Construction
Juan O.
Very professional. Replaced the water heater in no time. Very clean work
Innovation Plumbing and Rooter dba HBR CONSTRUCTION
Jerry K.
Juan was on time & did a Great job , he even came back to help me fix me sprinkler leak that was from a old section of pipes , you will be Happy with his work
Juan Maciels Landscaping and Concrete Services
Yaniv K.
Highly recommend these guys after doing a great job from start to finish !
I recently bought a house for investment and needed remodeling for the kitchen and 2 bathrooms , and a friend recommended Oria Builders and sent me to speak with Gilad the owner.
we clicked from the first call , Gilad was super friendly , professional and understood exactly what I was looking for without me having to explain too much and got me a price offer and work plan within a couple of days and by the next week the crew was already working on my property.
Gabriel the project manager was always polite and respectful, kept everything clean and did a raeally good job on keeping us updated at every point of the job .
they completed the job within the agreed upon time frame with no lagging , left everything clean and looking brand new , and I will absolutely use their services again in the future .
thanks again guys for doing a wonderful job!
Oria Builders
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