5 Questions to Ask About Building a Deck or Porch

Building a deck or replacing an existing one expands your home's living space to the outdoors. From dining al fresco to sunbathing, your options for how to use the space are nearly endless. However, before you start the project, there are a few deck-building questions to discuss with your contractor to ensure the work aligns with your needs. Here’s what you can expect to discuss during the conversation. 

1. When do you need this project completed?

The climate in your area can determine the best time to build or replace your home's deck or porch. In locations where cold weather dominates the winter months, it's best to accomplish the job during spring, summer, or autumn. However, this is also the busiest time for deck builders. For the best results regarding timing, start planning and talking with contractors several months before you need to complete the work. Discuss your pro’s schedule and the project's duration to eliminate surprises and delays. You may even find that there are compelling reasons to build a deck in the winter.

2. What size deck, approximately, would you like to build?

Your budget and your home's layout are the primary factors when determining how large a deck or porch you wish to construct. The cost to build a deck doesn’t only depend on the size, but it is one of a few key factors. Discuss the material, foundation or footing, and your new deck's design, and compare each against size options with your contractor to determine how to get the most for your money. 

3. Which projects best describe your framing needs?

Decks and porches have different framing and construction needs. While a freestanding deck can allow more design options than replacing an existing covered porch on a one-for-one basis, the specifics of your project will determine the best construction method. Discuss your design options and framing alternatives early with a deck builder near you. Doing so will result in a more accurate price estimate and job schedule. 

4. Are there architectural drawings for your project?

If you already have architectural drawings for your deck-building project, you're ahead of the game. However, be sure to share this information and the drawings early in talks with your contractor. There may be factors like landscaping, drainage, and obstacles to discuss to get accurate estimates. 

5. Are there any additional features you want to install with the deck or porch?

Adding an outdoor living space to your home opens you up to numerous design and use options. If you're considering an outdoor kitchen, spa installation, or other add-on now or in the future, discuss your thoughts with your contractor when you’re asking preliminary deck-building questions. You'll have options for installing the necessary infrastructure, such as electrical wiring or plumbing, now versus later when doing so will cost more to retrofit.