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Construction
What to Consider Before Hiring a Deck Builder
What Is the Secret to Building the Deck of Your Dreams?
One of the most common questions homeowners in the Lower Mainland and throughout British Columbia ask before starting a deck project is: "How do I choose the right deck builder?" The answer is simple: hire the right contractor.
Building a new deck or replacing an existing one is a significant investment in your home. Before requesting estimates, take some time to research local contractors and create a shortlist. Ask friends and family for recommendations, read online reviews, explore company websites, and compare businesses based on their experience, reputation, and specialization.
The time you spend researching before hiring a contractor can save you thousands of dollars—and many headaches—later.
Here are some of the most important things to consider before choosing a deck builder in the Lower Mainland, BC.
Deck Builders vs. General Contractors: What's the Difference?
Modern deck construction has changed dramatically over the last two decades. Today's decks are larger, more complex, and built with advanced framing methods and modern decking products such as composite and PVC decking. Because building materials, installation methods, and building codes continue to evolve, professional deck builders constantly expand their knowledge and stay up to date with industry changes.
While many construction trades—including landscapers, roofers, siding installers, fence builders, and general contractors—are capable of building a deck, most of them only build a few decks each year. That is very different from a specialized deck-building company that builds around 20 deck projects every season.
Professional deck builders work with deck structures every day. They understand deck framing, footings, ventilation, moisture management, building codes, and the installation requirements of different decking products. That experience often results in better structural design, higher-quality craftsmanship, and practical solutions that may be overlooked by contractors who only build decks occasionally.
If you're planning to build a new deck or completely replace an existing one, hiring a contractor who specializes in deck construction is usually the best choice.
Deck Builders vs. Decking Installers: What's the Difference?
If you're planning to build a composite or PVC deck, you'll probably start by researching decking brands, colours, and product lines online. Most major decking manufacturers allow homeowners to order product samples, and many also publish lists of recommended local installers or contractors.
These contractor programs are primarily designed to promote the manufacturer's decking products. In many cases, a contractor's position or status within the program is based on the amount of that manufacturer's decking products they sold or installed during the previous year.
If your project only involves replacing the existing deck boards while keeping the deck framing, choosing a contractor from one of these manufacturer programs can be a good option.
However, it's important to understand that not every decking installer is a professional deck builder.
Installing composite or PVC decking is only one part of building a safe and durable deck. New deck construction and complete deck replacement require structural carpentry knowledge, framing experience, and a thorough understanding of local building practices and codes.
Professional deck builders are, first and foremost, experienced structural carpenters. Installing decking products is simply one part of what they do.
Please note: Decking manufacturers warrant their products against manufacturing defects, but they do not warrant or accept responsibility for problems caused by improper deck framing or incorrect structural construction—even if the deck was built by one of their recommended contractors.
Explore the Contractor's Website and Social Media
A contractor's website can tell you a lot about the business before you even make the first phone call.
Take some time to explore the website, especially the Home page, About page, project gallery, customer reviews, and any information about awards, certifications, or Better Business Bureau accreditation. These sections often provide a good picture of the contractor's experience and professionalism.
Pay particular attention to the completed project gallery. Before-and-after photos don't just show a backyard transformation—they also show how the project was built. Professional deck builders are usually proud of their craftsmanship and often include construction photos showing the deck framing before the decking boards are installed.
These framing photos can reveal much more than finished pictures alone. They demonstrate the builder's attention to structural details and often provide a better indication of the quality of workmanship than a finished deck photograph.
Construction photos also give homeowners confidence that the contractor actually built the projects shown on the website rather than using photos found elsewhere online.
For homeowners planning a deck project in the Lower Mainland or elsewhere in British Columbia, spending a few extra minutes reviewing a contractor's previous work can be one of the most valuable parts of the hiring process.
Online Reviews and Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Today, most homeowners rely on online reviews when choosing a contractor.
Look for reviews from real clients.
Some review platforms place a greater emphasis on verifying that reviews come from actual customers. Houzz, for example, uses a homeowner verification process before publishing reviews. In simple terms, homeowners are generally required to demonstrate that they own the property where the contractor completed the work before their review is approved.
Google and Yelp use their own systems to verify user accounts and detect suspicious activity, but they do not verify that the reviewer is the homeowner who hired the contractor for a specific project. Whether or not you place the same level of trust in those reviews is a personal decision.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is another valuable resource when researching contractors. For more than 100 years, the BBB has helped consumers identify trustworthy businesses. When a company is BBB Accredited, it has agreed to meet BBB Accreditation Standards relating to honesty, transparency, customer service, and ethical business practices.
For homeowners in British Columbia, BBB Accreditation can provide an additional level of confidence when comparing contractors.
References
Years ago, asking for references was one of the most common ways to evaluate a contractor. Today, many homeowners rely more on online reviews than telephone conversations.
That said, references can still be helpful if you know how to ask for them.
Instead of asking for a random list of previous customers, look through the contractor's project gallery and choose one or two completed deck projects that you like. Then ask whether the homeowners would be willing to speak with you about their experience.
Keep in mind that many people today prefer not to share their personal contact information because of privacy concerns, unwanted sales calls, and online scams. Some past clients may simply decline to have their contact information shared, and contractors should respect that decision.
If references are available, ask about the homeowner's overall experience. Were they satisfied with the communication? Did the project stay organized? Was the work completed as expected? Would they hire the same contractor again?
These conversations often provide much more useful information than simply asking whether someone was happy with their new deck.
Estimates and Consultations
Once you've narrowed your list down to a few contractors you trust, it's time to schedule an estimate.
A deck-building project begins with good communication. During the estimate, take the time to explain exactly how you want your new deck to look and function. Even small details can make a significant difference to the final design, materials, and overall project cost.
Don't hesitate to ask the contractor for suggestions. Experienced deck builders often see opportunities that homeowners may not have considered. Ask questions such as:
• What would you do if this were your own house?
• Is there a better way to build this deck?
• Can the design be improved without increasing the budget significantly?
Keep an open mind when discussing ideas. Professional deck builders may recommend changes based on years of practical experience, local building codes, or long-term durability. You don't have to accept every suggestion, but it's worth understanding why it's being recommended—especially if it's related to structural safety or building code requirements.
For homeowners throughout the Lower Mainland and British Columbia, a consultation should be more than just measuring the deck. It should help you understand your options and make informed decisions before construction begins.
Requesting a Quote
When requesting a quote, be as specific as possible about your project and your expectations.
The cost of building a deck can vary considerably depending on its size, shape, height, structural requirements, decking material, stairs, railings, skirting, and many other factors. Two decks that appear similar at first glance can differ significantly in price.
A professional quote should clearly describe the work to be completed and specify the products that will be used, including decking materials, railing systems, and major brand names whenever applicable.
The more detailed the quote, the easier it becomes to compare contractors and understand exactly what you're paying for.
Remember that choosing the lowest price doesn't always provide the best value. Experience, construction quality, communication, and reputation are often just as important as the final price.
Ultimately, hire a contractor whom you trust, who understands your goals, and who has the experience to build your project properly.
Manufacturer and Installation Warranties: What's the Difference?
Before signing a contract, ask the contractor what warranties your new deck will receive.
A new deck is a significant investment in your home, so it's important to understand exactly what is—and isn't—covered after construction is complete.
In the deck-building industry, warranties generally fall into two categories: manufacturer warranties and installation (labour) warranties.
Manufacturer Warranty
A manufacturer warranty covers defects in the decking products themselves. It guarantees that the products will perform as intended for a specified period, provided they are installed and maintained according to the manufacturer's requirements.
Manufacturer warranties typically do not cover damage caused by misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, accidental damage, or natural events such as floods, fire, hail, or windstorms.
Warranty details vary between manufacturers and product lines, so always read the warranty information published on the manufacturer's website before making your final decision.
Installation Warranty
An installation warranty is provided by the contractor, not the manufacturer.
It covers defects caused by improper installation and confirms that the contractor stands behind the quality of the workmanship for a specified period.
Installation warranty periods vary depending on the type of project. New deck construction generally receives the longest installation warranties because every structural component is new.
Deck repairs, deck resurfacing (redecking), or projects that reuse existing framing often receive shorter warranties—or sometimes no installation warranty at all—because the contractor cannot guarantee the long-term performance of an older structure that wasn't originally built by them.
The amount invested in the project can also influence the installation warranty. Limited budgets sometimes require compromises in materials or construction methods, which may affect the warranty period.
Weather conditions in British Columbia are another important factor. Unlike your home's structure, which is protected by walls and a roof, a deck is exposed to rain, moisture, freezing temperatures, frost heave, and summer heat throughout the year. These seasonal ground movements constantly place stress on the structure.
For that reason, a one-year installation warranty is generally considered fair for floating ground-level decks built on deck blocks.
A new deck built on properly installed in-ground footings and framed according to building codes typically experiences two full seasonal cycles within the first few years. If no structural issues appear during that time, a three-year installation warranty is generally considered a realistic and appropriate warranty period.
Some companies advertise installation warranties of seven or even ten years. While these offers may sound attractive, homeowners should understand that very long installation warranties are often used as marketing tools. A warranty only has value if the company is still operating years later to honour it. Since many general contractors and construction franchisees have begun offering deck-building services, ask their representative who will actually honour the warranty in the future, especially if the business changes ownership or stops operating.
This is one reason many homeowners appreciate working with established sole proprietors. The business owner is personally responsible for the company's reputation, workmanship, and warranty obligations, even if the business eventually stops operating.
Written Contract
Before hiring any contractor, ask whether you'll receive a written contract. If the answer is no, it's best to stop the meeting right there.
Always get everything in writing.
A written contract protects both you and the contractor by clearly describing the work that has been agreed upon. It should include the scope of work, materials to be used, project cost, payment schedule, responsibilities of both parties, and any warranties that apply.
If something isn't included in the contract, it may be difficult to prove later that both parties agreed to it.
Take the time to review the contract together before signing it. Make sure you understand every section, ask questions if something isn't clear, and don't feel pressured to sign until you're comfortable with the agreement.
Both you and the contractor should receive a signed copy of the contract for your records.
Who Will Actually Build Your Deck?
Before hiring a contractor, ask the person who came to your estimate who they are within the company and who will actually be building your deck.
Construction companies operate in many different ways. Depending on the business, you may be speaking with the owner, a salesperson, a project manager, or the lead carpenter who will supervise the work.
Knowing who your main point of contact will be makes communication much easier throughout the project.
Larger Construction Companies
Larger companies are often easy to recognize because they advertise that they do almost everything. They typically operate as general contractors and subcontract projects to smaller contractors.
Subcontracting is not necessarily a bad thing. Many subcontractors are highly skilled carpenters, and using subcontractors can help larger companies complete more projects each year. However, some business owners' desire to earn more may lead them to hire cheaper, less experienced subcontractors, increasing the risk of misunderstandings and poorly performed work.
Homeowners should know whether their project will be subcontracted. If it will, ask who the subcontractor is and whether they are licensed, insured, and experienced in deck construction.
The more you understand how the company operates, the easier it will be to communicate with the right people throughout your project and avoid misunderstandings.
Small Deck-Building Businesses
Many professional deck builders in the Lower Mainland and throughout British Columbia operate as sole proprietors or small family-run businesses.
In these companies, the owner is usually the lead carpenter and the person who manages the project from start to finish. The same person who meets you during the estimate is the person building your deck every day.
Like any small business, a sole proprietor's reputation is directly connected to the quality of the work they perform. Their future projects depend almost entirely on customer satisfaction and word-of-mouth referrals, so most take great pride in the quality of their craftsmanship and customer service.
Ready to Build Your New Deck?
Choosing the right deck builder takes a little time, but it's one of the most important decisions you'll make during your project.
A well-built deck should provide decades of enjoyment, add value to your home, and become an outdoor space your family can enjoy for many years. Taking the time to research contractors, compare your options, and ask the right questions can help you avoid costly mistakes and make your investment worthwhile.
If you're planning to build a new deck or replace an existing one in the Lower Mainland, BC, we'd be happy to help.
We'll listen to your ideas, answer your questions, show you decking samples, discuss your options, take measurements, and provide you with a detailed quote so you can make an informed decision about your project.