"They were on time and did a pretty good job. They also didn't waste a lot of time during preparation. The other end of that result is a couple paint spots reman on the floor. Everything else was very high quality."
I had contacted five other contractors before finding Barry and his stellar team. Two contractors were no shows and three showed but did not return with an estimate, even after several calls to them. I knew that the job would be challenging and would require a skilled architect and contractor. While where the pool sat was level ground, the ground surrounding it was not, it provided very difficult elevation changes. Additionally the deck had to marry to the house and Florida room elevations, which were also different. I also wanted the deck boards to carry over the pool edge all around the pool - an oval pool within a disparate geometric deck (probably why the other contractors ran away)
Barry arrived on time to provide an estimate, made some initial measurements, addressed material requirements, number of gates, steps, access points, etc. Provided a rough order of magnitude based on estimated square footage and asked if he could have his architect come out. I agreed and he said he would get back to me. Barry returned the following day with the architect, three days after that we had plans and a contract. Two days after that we had a permit, then 3 days later the material was delivered and with it a crew that I can say based on experience before and after the job is in all likely hood the best in the area (not my first contracting rodeo in Virginia Beach). Barry's "A" team is compromised of his son Chase, Fanz Roman and Gilder Roman. The crew was polite, attentive and most importantly WORKED from the time they arrived till the time they departed.
I know Barry had other jobs ongoing in parallel with mine; but Barry showed up regularly to both work alongside his crew and provide supervision for the challenging compound miters (though little to no supervision was needed-they all have mad carpentry skills!). Barry did have to absent himself for a job up north for a day or two; but the team never missed a beat and Barry called me to ensure I was having no issues. One of Barry's attributes that I really appreciated, other than his knowledge and experience, was his responsiveness, whether through email or phone he always answered immediately. I also appreciated that we worked as a team. If there was an issue it was resolved quickly. As an example, it became apparent that the planned deck pattern would not work, though it looked good on paper. Fanz and Gilder designed a solution, laid it out for approval, The result was perfect!
I have two more projects I am saving for. I am not even going to waste my time chasing after other contractors. Barry's price is within the market, his work ethic exemplary and he delivers on his promise, the jobs will be his. I want it right, so I will wait for his availability.
"My experience with this company was excellent. Ben was on time, professional and completed the work to my specifications. I was very pleased with the finished product."
One of the best things about Steve is he showed up when he was suppose to!
It was nice to watch things go so smoothly ....There was nothing he couldn't do. I thought I was going to have to hire a plumber to install the shower toilet sink water heater etc but I didn't."
Our happy and satisfied customers recommend us to their friends and family all the time. We are proud of our reputation and we feel it has been well earned. We are also happy that we can help you feel good knowing that you are working with a reputable company that stands behind its products and services.
Yes, pressure washing a wood deck can be a good idea as it effectively lifts ingrained dirt, mold, and mildew, improving the deck's appearance and longevity. However, it must be done carefully, as it's easy to damage the wood, especially softwoods. To pressure wash safely, use a lower pressure setting and a wide, 40-degree fan pattern nozzle (often white). Keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the wood surface and maintain constant motion, avoiding hovering in one spot to prevent gouging.
Unless you’re using a 2-in-1 formula or painting over an existing coat of paint, it pays to apply a coat of primer ahead of your new paint. Decks see a lot of footfall and exposure to extreme and sudden temperature changes and moisture levels. The primer promotes better paint adhesion, moisture repellency, and a smoother finish, which means you’ll often need fewer coats of paint.
The “best” material is in the eye of the beholder, as each common decking material boasts its pros and cons. Poured concrete is the best budget-friendly option, but composite wood brings high-grade aesthetics without breaking the bank. Wood is the most traditional material, but it requires more maintenance than some other materials. In other words, do your research before settling on a deck material to find the one that’s best for your pool.
Yes, Ipe is more expensive than Trex decking—both in terms of materials and installation (plus, Ipe trees are endangered). On average, Ipe decking costs $10 to $25 per square foot, while Trex decking costs $5 to $12 per square foot. Because Ipe is harder to work with, the price of installation is higher, too. For Ipe decking, you’ll pay between $20 and $45 per square foot for labor. However, with Trex decking, the labor costs range from $8 to $22 per square foot.
Composite decking requires a solid foundation, substructure, or subframe to ensure stability. This base is typically composed of posts, beams, joists, and footings. The frame's joists can be built from various materials like composite, plastic, timber, or metal, as long as the base can support the deck's weight without shifting. A professional deck builder might recommend installing the frame on a solid concrete base for added durability. The final design and materials for the substructure will depend on your budget, the type of deck, and environmental conditions.
The Grundy, VA homeowners’ guide to deck maintenance services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Deck maintenance is vital to protecting a wooden deck. Cleaning, staining and sealing a deck after pressure washing will add years to its lifespan. Protect a deck by following these deck maintenance tips for cedar and other types of wood materials.
Finding maintenance-free decking that works for your home, budget, and lifestyle can be challenging. This guide lists the 7 best low-maintenance deck materials.