In this post, we’ve got answers to 5 common questions about fence and deck projects:
- Will we build a partial project?
- Do you need to be home while we work on your project?
- Can you re-use an existing deck frame?
- Which is cheaper, a concrete patio or a composite deck?
- What’s the best way to clean a composite deck?
Get all of the answers in the video, or read more below:
Will you do a partial project?
We get this question occasionally, and usually what we find is that the homeowner is looking for ways to save money on the project. However, there are a few reasons why we don’t offer partial project installation.
- We specialize in full installations from beginning to end. If we take out a portion of that, it doesn’t typically save you a lot, so for that reason alone, we often recommend that you consider doing an entire project.
- It can get very messy. If you start doing part of the work and find that it is too difficult or you don’t have enough time to complete the project, the cost of labor is generally higher.
- We offer a lifetime workmanship warranty on all of our projects. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to provide this warranty on projects completed in whole or part by other parties.
If you’re determined to perform some of the work yourself, you may be able to find a contractor who is willing to help you out. On the other hand, if you value the points above, we’d be happy to provide you with a budget range for your project.
Do I need to be home while you work on my project?
While you’re welcome to be at home while our crew is on-site, you are not required to be. Our team will have the notes for your project and arrive well prepared and informed on your project specifics.
If you are home when our team has completed your project, the project foremen will happily walk you through and confirm that everything is as planned. But you don’t need to block out your calendar to be there every day of the project.
Can I reuse my current deck frame?
It’s not uncommon to want to replace decking and keep your existing frame. It seems like a great way to save money. It’s often difficult to see whether there’s any rot or decay in the existing deck frame.
Before you make this decision, it’s essential to have an expert look at the structure. Our trained specialists will inspect it to ensure that it will hold up over time; this is especially important If you’re installing composite deck boards, which can have a 25- to 50-year warranty.
If you’re putting money into your deck, make sure that the frame will hold up as long as the deck boards do.
Is it cheaper to install a deck or a concrete patio?
If you’re comparing the installation cost between a composite deck and a concrete patio, the concrete patio is going to win every time. Most concrete patios cost a lot less to install, and it can seem like they’re going to be lower maintenance.
If you look at a longer-term view, though, the concrete patio will not come with a material warranty. Concrete is prone to crack, and if exposed to the elements, can accumulate moss and mold that can be difficult to remove. On the other hand, composite decking usually comes with a 25- to 50-year warranty and requires little to no maintenance.
How should I clean my composite deck?
You can easily clean composite deck boards with a low-pressure attachment for your garden hose.
If that doesn’t meet your standards, you can also buy a deck cleaning solution from your local hardware store. Use a soft-bristled brush to apply it to the deck surface, then rinse to remove.
