Choosing the Right Deck Builder: Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask

A great deck doesn’t start with a design—it starts with the right person (or team) building it. Whether you're dreaming of a small platform for quiet evenings or a multi-level outdoor space for entertaining, the person you hire will make all the difference.

But with so many contractors out there, how do you separate a quality deck builder from a risky one?

Hiring someone to work on your home is a big decision. Asking the right questions before you sign a contract helps ensure the work will be high-quality, on budget, and done safely.

Here’s a curated list of smart questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a deck builder—along with what to listen for in the answers.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Why ask it: You want legal protection if something goes wrong.
What to look for: A clear “yes” with specific license numbers and insurance documentation.

A reputable deck builder won’t hesitate to share proof of licensing and general liability insurance. You may also ask if they carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect against injuries during the project.

2. Do You Have Experience with My Type of Project?

Why ask it: Deck designs can vary significantly—ground-level vs. raised, composite vs. natural wood, built-in seating, multi-tiered, etc.
What to look for: Experience with similar materials, design features, or terrain as your property.

A builder with a solid portfolio of similar work is more likely to foresee challenges and deliver strong results. Local builders who understand your climate, zoning rules, and HOA restrictions have a major advantage, especially if your home has unique needs—like roofing integration or proximity to other structures.

3. Can I See a Portfolio or Photos of Past Work?

Why ask it: Visual proof speaks louder than words.
What to look for: A variety of completed projects with clean lines, quality finishes, and design relevance.

Good deck builders often maintain digital galleries or offer references. This step also helps you decide if their style aligns with your vision.

4. Will You Provide a Detailed Written Estimate?

Why ask it: Clarity now avoids surprises later.
What to look for: A breakdown that includes labor, materials, permits, timelines, and payment terms.

Some estimates group materials and labor into a single number, while others itemize every detail. Either format is fine—as long as it’s specific and clear.

Builders from companies like D&G Exteriors are known to provide homeowners with written estimates that clearly outline what’s included and what’s not—making it easier to compare contractors side by side.

5. How Do You Handle Permits and Inspections?

Why ask it: Proper permitting protects your property value and ensures compliance.
What to look for: A builder who handles permits themselves or guides you through the process.

You don’t want to find out halfway through that your deck needs a permit you never applied for. A knowledgeable deck builder will understand local codes and help navigate them efficiently.

6. What Materials Do You Recommend, and Why?

Why ask it: You want a deck that fits your lifestyle, climate, and maintenance preferences.
What to look for: Honest pros and cons of wood, composite, PVC, or alternative materials.

This question also helps you gauge whether the builder is product-agnostic or pushing a single type of solution regardless of your needs. You should also ask about warranties—on both the materials and the installation.

7. Who Will Be on Site Doing the Work?

Why ask it: Knowing who will actually build your deck matters more than who sells it.
What to look for: Transparency about team members, subcontractors, or third-party labor.

A trustworthy builder introduces their crew and explains how the project will be managed day to day. This matters if you need consistent communication and accountability on-site.

8. How Do You Handle Changes or Unexpected Issues?

Why ask it: Even small changes can affect time and cost.
What to look for: A clear process for change orders or budget adjustments.

Things don’t always go exactly as planned—maybe you decide mid-project to add lighting, or there’s a buried pipe that wasn’t visible during the estimate. Make sure your builder communicates clearly and gets approvals for changes before proceeding.

9. What’s the Timeline From Start to Finish?

Why ask it: Delays impact your schedule and budget.
What to look for: A realistic start and end date, weather considerations, and contingency plans.

If you’re working with other contractors—say, a roofing company doing nearby work, or a landscape designer coordinating the yard—you’ll want schedules to align. The best builders will provide a timeline with flexibility built in, not promises they can’t keep.

10. What Happens After the Deck Is Built?

Why ask it: Your relationship doesn’t end with the last nail.
What to look for: A clear walkthrough process, cleanup expectations, and support if issues arise later.

Ask whether sealing or finishing is included, and how soon you can use the deck after completion. Also inquire about any follow-up inspections, adjustments, or check-ins post-installation.

D&G Exteriors, like many experienced companies, often stays connected with clients to ensure satisfaction even after the job is technically “done.”

Bonus: Do You Offer Additional Exterior Services?

You might not be thinking beyond your deck right now—but if you're planning to add siding, redo your roof, or handle other exterior upgrades in the near future, hiring a multi-skilled contractor can help simplify future projects.

Some deck builders also work in tandem with roofing company crews, especially if the deck ties into the roofline or an overhead covering. If your current project could overlap with areas like roof repair or replacement, it helps to ask upfront whether coordination is part of the builder’s offering—or if you’ll need to hire separately.

Final Thought: Don’t Settle for the First “Yes”

The best deck builder isn’t just the first one available—they’re the one who understands your goals, explains the process clearly, and brings technical expertise to the job.

By asking the right questions before you commit, you protect your investment and increase your chances of a project that runs smoothly from concept to completion.

Whether you're installing a new deck from scratch or replacing an outdated space with something modern and functional, working with professionals like D&G Exteriors can help bring your outdoor vision to life—with confidence and clarity.