Category: Decks

Factors to Consider Before Hiring a Deck Builder

Deck contractor building a new composite trex deck

Do you want to know the secret to creating the perfect deck of your dreams? Hiring the right deck builder. You can explain your vision to several deck and patio builders, but only the most experienced and specialized contractors will be able to carry through with it. Nowadays, deck building has become a specialized trade and shouldn’t be left in the hands of a general contractor.

With so many different options you have for your deck, it’s critical to work with deck companies that are knowledgeable and experienced. You’re making a major investment in your home by building a deck, so it needs to be done properly. Take your time when talking to various Trex deck contractors and consider these factors before hiring one.

Only Consider Specialized Deck And Patio Builders

General contractors are capable of building decks. However, with the ever-changing building code requirements and manufacturer restrictions, general contractors typically don’t keep up with them. That’s why opting for specialized deck and patio builders is the best option. They will ensure all codes and regulations are followed and the necessary permits are pulled. Specialized deck builders also know about manufacturer installation instructions and understand the product inside and out. This can give you peace of mind knowing all decking, railing, and trim will be installed per the manufacturer’s instructions. The deck will perform correctly, last longer, and the manufacturer’s warranty will be valid.

Look Out For Red Flags In Communication

Once you’ve identified a few Trex deck contractors to interview, you need to look for characteristics to separate them. Communication is a vital component of any home renovation project, especially deck building. If a contractor is too busy to return your initial phone call timely, then it’s a red flag that they might be too busy to communicate with you effectively throughout the project. The contractor should be clear and transparent with their communication from the very beginning. You will appreciate prioritizing this characteristic once the project gets going.

Ensure All Agreements Are In Writing

Ask all deck companies you interview if they will provide contracts and agreements in writing before the project begins. Some contractors will make multiple promises during the interview process and then neglect to relay those to their team. That’s why getting a written agreement is so critical. Whether it’s holding them accountable to their timeline, certain features promised with your deck, pricing, or anything else, you need something in writing to fall back on.

Ask For References

The best deck and patio builders should have plenty of references and won’t be afraid to give some to you. If they hesitate to provide them to you, it should be perceived as a warning sign that they might not make their customers very happy. And if they do, be sure to utilize the references to help you through the interview process. Reach out to those references and ask important questions like:

  • What was the process like when working with this contractor?
  • Were you kept informed throughout the project?
  • Were all agreements met to your expectations?
  • Would you consider working with this contractor again for future projects?

If possible, send these types of questions to three different references. Everyone has unique situations, so getting input from different people can give you a good idea about how the contractor works. If a reference provides any concerning information to you, then feel free to bring it up to the contractor and allow them to explain.

Does The Contractor Offer Workmanship Guarantees?

Skilled and experienced Trex deck contractors should be confident in their workmanship. When you opt for high-quality decks like Trex decks, you can take advantage of manufacturer warranties. You shouldn’t have to worry about any workmanship issues when you work with specialized deck and patio builders, but it’s best to have some guarantees in your back pocket just in case.

Ask contractors if they will come back at no charge if you identify any defects or issues within the first year or two after the deck is built. Even after a thorough inspection following the completion of the project, you might not realize a defect. Once you start using the deck how it’s intended, you may notice a board is not secured thoroughly or other similar issues. Knowing your contractor has a workmanship guarantee can give you peace of mind in these situations.

Understand Lead Times And Completion Dates Thoroughly

Be careful with contractors who make promises that seem a little too good to be true. While it may be possible to build a deck in two or three days, it’s usually unrealistic if the contractor is juggling other projects. No one likes to live in a construction zone for longer than they have to, so nail down all lead times and completion dates with your contractor. Unforeseen circumstances can happen that lead to delays, but as long as the contractor communicates with you, then it shouldn’t seem like as big of a deal.

Regan Total Construction is skilled and specialized in building various types of decks. We specialize in building Trex decks, which is widely regarded as being the best type of decking you can invest in today. Whether you want a small patio to enjoy reading a book on in the evenings or a large deck for hosting parties and gatherings, we have you covered. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free consultation and let us start the process of turning your dreams into realities!

 

 

Filed under: Decks, Patios, Trex Composite Decks

3 Areas of Your Deck You Should Inspect Regularly

Old wooden deck that needs to be repaired or replaced

Homeowners often agree one of the most valuable home additions is a nice outdoor deck. You have a lot of options to choose from, with wood being the most popular decking material. Not only can you enjoy spending time outdoors on your deck, but it also increases your property value. So what’s not to love about them?

One thing you have to be aware of about wood decks is the maintenance involved with them. While there is routine maintenance you have to do a couple of times a year, there are also things to look out for long-term as the wood becomes weathered and used more. The top wood deck repair contractors in your area can explain some of the specific issues to look out for, but it’s important to evaluate the entire space for potential problems.

Why Is It Important To Inspect Your Deck?

A neglected wood deck can turn into a dangerous one quickly. Any soft spots in the wood could be a sign of rot. And if any of the fasteners start popping up, they need to be replaced as soon as possible. Too many accidents occur across the country as a result of a poorly maintained deck. An unsafe deck can ruin a backyard party quickly if the deck collapses and someone gets hurt. It’s well worth a search for “deck repair companies near me” to fix any issues you see immediately. Here are the top three areas of your deck that you need to inspect regularly.

1. Check The Wood Thoroughly And Regularly

The first thing wood deck repair contractors look at is the condition of the wood. Natural wood will weather over time, but it doesn’t necessarily need to be replaced. Always look at the deck boards in addition to the railings, supports, framing, joists, and any other wood features you have. Look for any boards that are split, warped, bowed, or show signs of rot. Proper care and maintenance over the years can prevent these issues from occurring, but it still needs to be evaluated regularly.

Splintered wood can happen for many reasons. If it’s exposed to direct sunlight, it could splinter more easily. Sometimes you can simply replace individual boards in these situations. Other times it might make more sense to replace the entire deck surface if most of the boards are experiencing splintering issues. Wood deck repair contractors can help you determine the extent in which you need to repair or replace wood boards.

2. Structural Support System

Many people make the mistake of neglecting to inspect their deck’s structural support system. Since a lot of the support system is not easily visible, it often gets overlooked. The structural supports include the boards under the deck that supports the deck floor. This area is prime for wood rot due to moisture, and can also be vulnerable to insect infestations that can damage the wood.

You want to look for twisting or warping of the wood that doesn’t allow it to attach to other boards properly. The rim joist is the board on the outside of the deck and needs to be in great shape at all times. If you see any sagging in your deck, it’s a sure sign that your support system below the deck is faulty or damaged and needs to be addressed. If you’re dealing with an issue of rot, then the deck could become dangerous to walk on quickly.

3. Deck Attachments And Stairs

Always check any deck attachments, stairs, benches, railings, and anything else that includes fasteners. Your deck is likely attached to your home with bolts if it was installed properly. Lag screws and nails may cause problems and need to be replaced by wood deck repair contractors.

As a homeowner, you can keep your deck safe by ensuring all fasteners and brackets are secured properly. If the deck was not built with the correct screws or fasteners, they could pull out over time. And if your deck is aged, then screws could pop up throughout the deck and potentially injure someone. You don’t necessarily have to fix all of these problems on your own, but it is the first sign that you should have wood deck repair contractors out to take a look.

Consider A Professional Evaluation Of Your Deck

It’s worth searching for “deck contractors in my area” if you see any of the issues mentioned above with your deck. Wood decks are not meant to last forever and it’s important to realize when it might be time for significant repairs or a full replacement. Having a professional inspect your deck periodically is valuable to ensure it is always safe. However, you can also help by inspecting your deck regularly and not ignoring any possible issues or discounting them as not a big deal.

Regal Total Construction is here to ensure homeowners have a safe deck to enjoy throughout the year. We are happy to provide an evaluation of your deck and make recommendations for repairs or a complete replacement. Chances are if you have had your wood deck for 10+ years, it is time to consider replacing it in the near future. You have a lot of options available to choose from with decks today, and our experienced team can cover them all for you. Never neglect maintenance on your deck so you can prevent accidents from occurring. If you need a professional opinion and evaluation, don’t hesitate to contact us at any time.

Filed under: Decks, Wood Decks

Three Key Differences Between Composite Decks and Natural Wood Decks

composite decking next to wood decking for comparison

Adding a new deck to your backyard can instantly improve your lifestyle. And if you already have a deck that’s been there for several years, it might be time for a deck replacement. Regardless of your situation, deciding between a composite deck and a natural wood deck is one of the most important things to consider. There are some major advantages and disadvantages of each material to help you make the best decision. We’ve discussed those here for you.

Consider The Durability Between Natural Wood And Composite Decking

Natural wood decks are often the top choice for homeowners because wood is durable and can last up to 30 years when maintained properly. However, composite decking contractors will tell you composite decks are even more durable and can last for around 50 years if it’s cared for.

When natural wood decks are exposed to harsh weather elements, they can eventually splinter, warp, rot, and even attract termites. So if your wood deck will be rained on, then you’ll have to deal with these issues over time. Wood decks will also fade when intense sunlight hits them, so you’ll constantly need to stain and protect them. Generally, composite decking contractors agree you don’t have to worry about those issues with composite decking. The long-lasting and durable materials are designed to be long-lasting no matter the weather elements where you live.

Understand The Maintenance Required

Whether you’re looking at a deck replacement or installing a new deck from scratch, you should understand the maintenance required for each type of material. While a natural wood deck looks amazing when it’s first installed and for many years, it takes a lot of work and maintenance to keep it that way. It’s important to clean the deck of any debris as soon as possible when it looks dirty, and many people choose to lightly pressure wash it a few times each year. And since decks tend to have a lot of foot traffic, you’ll also have to repaint or stain it every couple of years to keep it looking nice.

With a composite deck replacement, you don’t have to worry about having to repaint or stain it. And as far as cleaning goes, sweeping it off when needed and scrubbing it with soap and water a couple of times each year is all that’s usually required to ensure it remains in great shape. Most composite decking contractors see people choose composite decking over natural wood primarily because of the less maintenance required.

Cost Considerations

Cost is always a consideration whether you’re looking for composite decking contractors or comparing deck materials. When you’re building a new deck, you don’t want to opt for cheap labor or materials because you likely won’t be satisfied with the end product. And it likely won’t last as long as you’d like.

While there’s nothing wrong with a traditional natural wood deck, it’s enticing for people because the materials are less expensive upfront. However, what many people don’t consider is the investment you have to make to maintain it. The cost of paint and stain can add up over time, not to mention the hours you have to spend every year keeping it clean. On the other hand, composite decks are more expensive to install, but you shouldn’t have to spend much more on maintaining them in the future. So if you’re on a budget now, then a natural wood deck can offer great value. But if you have a little extra money to spend, then it’s worth it for most people to invest in a composite deck.

Are Composite Decks Better Than Natural Wood Decks?

There are some clear advantages to composite decks over natural wood decks. Composite decks don’t require much maintenance and have a lifespan of nearly twice as long as natural wood decks. Combine this with the durability of composite materials and many homeowners believe the extra cost is well worth it.

However, this doesn’t mean natural wood decks should be avoided completely. Some people aren’t worried about having to maintain a wood deck and enjoy painting or staining it frequently to change up the look. You can enjoy both types of materials just the same. As long as you know what it will take to enjoy each type of deck for years to come, then you can make an informed decision and feel confident with it.

The Right Contractor Can Help You Make The Best Decision

When you search for “composite decking companies near me,” you’ll likely see multiple results. Not all composite decking contractors are the same, though, so it’s critical to find the best option. Interview multiple companies and have them come to your house to provide an estimate and talk about their process. Cutting corners is not an option when building a deck, and that’s what many contractors will do if they offer you a low cost estimate.

Regan Total Construction specializes in building custom decks homeowners can enjoy for years to come. Choosing between a natural wood deck and a composite deck is a difficult decision for many homeowners and we can help present you with facts to help you make a confident decision. We use only the best materials and our professionals will never cut corners during a project. If you’re ready to start the process of your deck replacement, contact us today and we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Filed under: Decks, Trex Composite Decks, Wood Decks

How to Design an All-Season Deck

Luxury All Season Deck

Homeowners who don’t have an outdoor deck at their home might not fully appreciate the benefits until they have one. On the other hand, people who currently have a deck might not use it year-round because various weather elements keep them inside. The good news is both situations can be solved when you work with local deck contractors to design an all-season deck for your home. An all-season deck is designed with all weather elements in mind so you can enjoy it year-round, rather than just in the spring and summer months. We’ve discussed some of the basic deck renovations to consider if you have an existing deck or new design ideas for your new custom deck.

Use Durable Materials

Most people believe wood is the best option when it comes to building a deck. While it’s a strong material that will last many years, it also requires a lot more maintenance and can wear down depending on how harsh the weather elements are in your region. A better alternative is using composite decking materials, which are the strongest and most durable available today. Composite materials won’t wear down as quickly when dirt, leaves, and debris collect on them throughout the year, and you won’t have to worry about the materials splintering over time. The maintenance for composite materials is low as well, so you’ll be able to preserve the like-new look for years to come.

Incorporate Shade Whenever Possible

When completing deck renovations, think about where the shade will come from. One reason why shade is important is it will protect your deck from intense direct sunlight. Another reason is so you can enjoy being on your deck when it’s hot outside and still feel comfortable. If you don’t have any trees nearby to provide adequate shade, then local deck contractors may suggest installing a retractable awning or maybe even a pergola. The benefit of a pergola or awning is it provides shade as well as protection if you want to sit on your deck while it’s raining.

Create A Partial Enclosure

Local deck contractors understand what weather elements you’ll typically see throughout the year. Sometimes this means creating a partial enclosure when designing an all-season deck. Partial enclosures are often in the form of a screened-in porch, but there are several options your local deck contractors will discuss with you. The goal of a partial enclosure is to keep you comfortable no matter what the elements are outside. A screened-in porch can protect you from bugs in the summer, snow in the winter, rain in the spring, and any other elements that could create an uncomfortable environment.

Don’t Forget About The Winter Season

Many homeowners completing deck renovations don’t think about how they’ll use the deck in the winter because they’ve never used their deck in cold weather before. When you work with experienced local deck contractors, they’ll provide you with plenty of ideas to make your deck useful even when it’s frigid outside. This could include building in a fire pit or other heating device. Or it could even be installing an HVAC unit in your partial enclosure to ensure you stay warm in the winter. You have a lot of custom options available, so think about how you would like to enjoy your deck in the winter and your local deck contractors can help you out.

Invest In Weather-Proof Furniture

The furniture you choose for your all-season deck is an important decision as well. You don’t want to choose furniture that you’ll have to replace every year because it can’t withstand the elements. Weather-proof furniture is the best way to go for all-season decks since it can withstand harsh UV rays, heavy rainfall, snow, dirt, and any other elements you encounter. In addition to comfort, you want your deck furniture to look great as well, and weather-proof furniture is the best way to accomplish this.

Work With The Best Local Deck Contractors

When you’re ready to start designing your custom all-season deck, you’ll notice you have plenty of options when it comes to deck builders. A simple search for “home deck builders near me” could yield dozens of results, which could be overwhelming to think about. One thing to note is that you should find a local contractor that specializes in deck building. Building codes have increased annually for several years and many general contractors do not keep up with all of the changes. Everything from fasteners to framing layouts must be done a specific way or the deck could have issues and warranty will not cover those issues. Protect your investment by working only with local deck contractors that specialize in deck building.

Regan Total Construction has specialized in custom residential projects for more than 20 years. We know exactly how to design all-season decks that will last a long time and fit your budget at the same time. An all-season deck is not something you want to have to replace every few years. Selecting quality materials and working with experienced contractors is essential in this regard. We take great pride in our work and turning our customers’ visions into a reality. If you’re thinking about designing an all-season deck, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help.

Filed under: Decks

The Importance of Quality Decking Material

Beautiful composite deck with inground pool

When you’re ready to start spending more time in your backyard sipping lemonade and taking in the views, a quality deck is a must-have. Over time, decks continue to evolve and become more accommodating with their design and build. The planning process determines the lifespan of the feature and how much use you get out of it in the coming years. There are a few reasons you should consider investing in quality decking material instead of cutting corners when you hire deck contractors.

Protect Your Safety

You can’t put a price on the safety of your family, especially when they spend time at home. Investing in quality decking material will offer peace of mind and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries as your loved ones spend time on the deck. Lower-quality materials that come with a cheaper price tag are prone to collapsing as they age and deteriorate. Frequent exposure to the elements can weaken the parts and make them more susceptible to damage, making it necessary to talk to deck companies about the best options available.

Although you may want to save more on cheap decking materials, it can come at a higher price in the future. You can end up spending a lot more on medical bills and the trauma that comes with a deck collapsing. Deck companies can recommend the best materials to ensure they last longer and hold up well in different types of climates.

You can spend your hard-earned money on a deck that is on par with current building and safety codes and is safe for both children and adults to use year-round. You also won’t have to trip over popped out nails or avoid cutting yourself on the materials because they won’t come loose over time.

You’ll also end up spending more money to perform repairs or build a new deck with the help of local deck companies in the area. Spending more upfront while hiring top rated deck builders can offer peace of mind and avoid potential headaches in the future.

Upscale Appearance

Quality decking materials like PVC and wood will enhance the look of your deck and allow it to appear more attractive. This can transform the look of your backyard and even increase your home value. In addition, the deck will look beautiful year-round when you select quality materials rather than resorting to pressure-treated pine or chemical-treated wood.

The deck will continue to look new for many years to come because the materials won’t wear down as quickly when exposed to the elements. If you need assistance selecting the right material, search for “top rated deck builders near me” to get professional help from reputable deck companies in the local area.

If you choose composite materials, they have a natural appearance that will make your guests assume you have a real wood deck. This can allow you to attain a specific look without compromising on the quality. The materials are visually appealing and don’t have any visible nails to create a more professional look.

A Longer Lifespan

Most homeowners don’t want to spend a significant amount of time and energy building a new deck only to redo the process in a few years. Those who choose cheaper decking materials don’t think about this and only think about the money they’re spending. With quality materials used the first time, the deck can last a lot longer. The most durable decks can hold up for 40 years with proper care and maintenance. When working with top rated deck builders near me, you can also obtain warranties to protect your investment.

It’s a lot more cost-effective to invest in better materials upfront rather than spending even more in the coming years to rebuild the deck multiple times. You’ll only need to hire deck contractors once every few decades instead of paying for their labor every ten years.

Fewer Repairs

It’s no secret durable materials hold up better and are less prone to wearing down and breaking as quickly. You can spend less on repairs and hiring deck companies to fix issues if you invest in better materials when the deck is built. This means you don’t have to deal with hiring a professional to replace a post or deck board. The railing will be a lot more sturdy and won’t crack or snap in the middle of a storm compared to cheaper materials. You can spend more time enjoying the outdoor feature rather than performing frequent maintenance.

Save Time and Energy

Deck contractors will tell you that one of the most frequent types of maintenance on low-cost decking materials is staining the wood. The wood is prone to fading with regular sun exposure and can quickly look old and dingy the longer it’s outside. Staining your deck or repainting it is a weekend project that no one looks forward to due to the work involved.

There are many options to consider regarding the quality and cost with the materials you select for your new deck. Each material available varies with the benefits and drawbacks, making it necessary to do some research to determine the best choice for your property. By choosing any type of wood material, it will require maintenance to prevent the wood from aging or looking old. However, some wood materials like pressure-treated wood will require on-going maintenance and care their entire lifetime to ensure they can hold up well in different climates and seasons. Specialty hardwoods, like different types of mahogany or oak, will stand up to the elements better, but if they are not regularly maintained, the color shade will quickly start to fade and look gray. Composite, vinyl, and aluminum decking materials are durable enough to hold up well in any type of weather or climate. Contractors recommend cleaning them regularly to enhance their appearance, but this isn’t essential to maintain their durability or color shade.

When you want a deck you can show off and get more use out of, the Regan Total Construction team is here to build the deck of your dreams. Contact us today to get started on building a maintenance-free deck.

Filed under: Decks, Trex Composite Decks, Wood Decks

What Does a Deck Inspector Look at During an Inspection?

Regan Total Construction being built, almost ready for inspection

An outdoor deck is one of the most common additions or renovations homeowners make. It’s a place where you can enjoy some extra space for grilling, playing with kids, hosting events, or simply relaxing at the end of a long day. If you’re considering installing a deck, it’s important to work with a licensed deck contractor to ensure the materials they use are high-quality and the workmanship is top-notch. Many contractors claim to be expert deck patio builders, but they don’t know all of the components a deck inspector looks at. And if you have an existing deck, maintaining it for safety purposes is important. Here’s what you need to know about deck inspections so you can ask patio deck contractors when you’re interviewing them.

Stairs

Deck inspectors will look at the stairs of your deck to see if there are any obvious signs of decay or cracking. They will also check the riser height and tread depth, as well as the width of the stairway, which should be greater than 36” wide. If handrails are used for the stairs, then they must be at a height of between 34” and 38” and should be easy to access. If a deck inspector finds any major issues with the stairs, then you might have to have a licensed deck contractor come and fix them.

Footings/Deck Supports And Posts/Columns

The support structures for an outdoor deck are critical for obvious reasons. Your deck should be able to sustain significant wear and tear over time and should be built to last for many years. Things deck inspectors look for in this category include post size and post height, how posts are connected to footings, how posts are connected to the beams, whether proper fasteners are used, and if the fasteners are in good shape.

Beams And Joists

If you worked with licensed deck patio builders, then you shouldn’t have any problems with beams and joists being an issue on your deck inspection report. The deck inspector will ensure that the beam splices have at least 1½” of bearing and that there are connections where the joist bears on top of the beam. They will also look at the joist size, spacing, and span to ensure the specifications are up to standard.

Ledger

Sometimes the ledger cannot be thoroughly inspected by a deck inspector. Depending on the design of the deck, there could be obstacles preventing a deck inspector from examining the ledger thoroughly. In these instances, a licensed deck contractor might have to be called to evaluate the ledger connection. This is one of the trickiest parts of a deck inspection, but it’s also one of the most important categories that need attention.

Deck Boards And Surface

Deck inspectors will look closely at the deck boards or other surfaces to determine the condition. They will evaluate the type of wood used and whether there are any obvious signs of deterioration, cracking, or decay. They also look closely at the fasteners used to confirm they are holding the materials securely. Rusted nails or screws could create an unsafe area so they will likely suggest replacing them if found.

Handrail Assemblies And Guards

There are a lot of details in handrail assemblies and guards that homeowners should be aware of. Deck inspectors will look at whether a guard is used if the walking surface is greater than 30” above grade. The guard has to be at least 36” tall for residential decks, and proper fasteners and posts must be used to transfer the load into the deck framing. Bolts and lag screws alone usually aren’t effective enough to meet the deflection and load criteria, and notched posts don’t meet proper standards either.

Miscellaneous Deck Features

The great thing about outdoor decks is they can be customized to fit the needs and desires of homeowners. Some patio deck contractors are more experienced than others at including customized features, so it’s ideal to ensure they’ve worked on similar projects before so they understand the standards to pass inspection. Deck inspectors will look at areas where you might have a hot tub, a special spot for a barbecue grill or other outdoor cooking area, any under-deck finishing, floor lighting, or other customized features. Any of the features you have on your outdoor deck must meet building codes and specifications as well, and deck inspectors will note any issues that must be fixed on their report.

Regan Total Construction has a team of experienced and qualified patio deck contractors to build the deck of your dreams. Each of our contractors is knowledgeable about building codes and safety standards to ensure every deck we build is as safe as possible. Many deck patio builders will offer cheaper prices to make their companies stand out, but the reality is the quality of materials and workmanship aren’t up to par. When you build a custom deck, you should have peace of mind knowing it was built securely and will last for many years without any major issues. We are ready and able to build your custom deck, so contact us today to receive a cost estimate.

Deck Evaluation Checklist

Deck Evaluation Checklist
Filed under: Decks