How do I hire the best deck contractor in DC?
To find the best deck contractors in DC, conduct an online search of local professionals. Start by comparing the pros’ ratings, as well as any Top Pro badges. You can also see details about some of the contractors’ specialties and how many times they’ve been hired.
You should also click on a few pros’ profiles so you can learn more about each contractor. For example, you might find details about their pricing, their credentials and even more information about their specialties. This is also where you have an opportunity to read all of their customer reviews and view photos of their completed projects.
Next, it’s time to look up their credentials. You might be able to see what licenses or certifications that contractors have obtained on their profiles. If not, try searching online. For example, visit DC’s Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs website to look up professional licenses.
After you’ve come up with a shortlist of deck contractors, ask them to send you free estimates. Hire a deck contractor you believe offers a fair estimate, has experience building decks for DC homes, is qualified for the job and received mostly positive reviews from satisfied customers.
How much is a porch?
It costs about $5,000-$10,000 to build a small, basic porch, according to HGTV. Prefabricated porches typically cost around $10,000-$30,000. Larger, custom-made porches can cost as much as $50,000.
To find out exactly how much your porch will cost, request a cost estimate from a porch builder near you.
How much does it cost to build a deck?
The cost of building a new deck or porch is $1,500. However, this price can vary depending on a few different factors. The square footage of the space, the type of materials to be used, the intricacy of the project and your specific region can cause the price to fluctuate. To find out how much your new deck will cost, get free estimates from the best deck contractors near you.
For more information, read “How much does it cost to build a deck or porch?”
Does a deck increase home value?
A back deck may (or may not) increase your home’s value or attract potential buyers if you’re looking to sell. According to the Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features, a new wood deck with an estimated construction cost of $10,000 recovered $8,000 for the overall recovery of 80%. Still, 9% of realtors suggested that home sellers should add a new wood deck before putting their home on the market, and 4% said this project has helped closed deals.
The impact of adding a new deck will likely depend on its material (wood, composite, etc.) and where you live. For example, if you live in an area where people rarely spend time outside because of the weather, it’s reasonable to predict that prospective home buyers might not rate a deck highly on their list of must-haves when looking for a new home.
When in doubt, consult with your realtor or a real estate expert to figure out if adding a new deck to your home is the right move to increase your home’s value. If it is, contact the best deck contractors near you to get free estimates and start planning your project.
Is it hard to build a deck yourself?
If you don’t have the skills, experience and qualifications, building a deck may be difficult for you to do on your own.
Structural integrity is key when constructing anything, but especially something you plan to have your family and friends use regularly. The safety of the structure takes careful planning and experience.
Professional contractors have the knowledge to make a safe, beautiful deck for you. They also know the proper permits and insurance required to legally build a new deck or remodel a porch in your city.
When in doubt, contact the best deck contractors near you and start getting free estimates today.
What should I ask a deck contractor?
One of the first questions you should ask is whether the contractor has the proper license or insurance. To be a licensed contractor in many states, they must have the experience and knowledge to pass the requirements from your state’s licensing board.
You should also inquire if they have done work related to your specific project. Just because they’re a contractor, that doesn’t mean they’ve built a deck or an addition like yours. Ask for photographs of decks they've built in the past, and go online to read reviews from past clients.
You also need to ask for a free estimate from several contractors so you know how much the project will cost you (and so you can pay the best price).
Get started today by contacting the best deck contractors near you.
