If you’re wondering how to enhance your home, a deck installation can transform your outdoor living space into something beautiful and functional. Whether you’re installing a simple wooden deck or going for a more modern design, knowing what to expect throughout the process is critical.
So if you’re checking into deck construction costs in Virginia, looking for information about deck permits in Southwest Virginia, or searching for a deck builder in Roanoke, VA, then you’ve come to the right place.
How Do I Even Start My Deck Install?
The very first step in any installation process is a consultation with a contractor. During this part, you’ll get to discuss your vision, what materials you want used, and your budget. Many homeowners start out with an idea of how they want their deck to look, or at least how they want it to function – from grilling to lounging to entertaining. Always share these preferences with your contractor.
Your deck installer will usually guide you through materials that will suit your purposes, like hardwoods, composites, and pressure-treated wood, as they all have their own benefits. For example, composite vs. wood decks in Roanoke are neck-and-neck for unique benefits, like low maintenance and durability.
Considering Your Budget
Your budget will play a huge role in the choices you make throughout the process. Working with your contractor to create a realistic budget that considers both the upfront and long-term costs is crucial to ensuring a smooth experience. The clearer you are about your costs, the less stressful the installation will be.
Getting Permission With Your Permits
After your initial consultation with your contractor, they will help you navigate the red tape of permits and local zoning requirements by handling all permit submissions and inspections for you.
This is a crucial part of the installation process, as your deck must meet local building codes for both safety and compliance. You can expect some wait time during this phase, because obtaining permits may take as long as a few weeks.
Prepping The Site
Once your permits have finally been approved, the physical work can begin.
To begin with, the contractor will clear off and level the site of your future deck. This phase may also involve marking utility lines to avoid any interruptions during the installation.
You may need to remove any existing structures in the way or incorporate them into the deck’s design, which can add time and cost to the installation. If there’s landscaping near the deck area, you may need to relocate plants or features to avoid damaging them.
Choosing Your Materials
Composite decks:
Composite deck options typically require little maintenance. They have a higher upfront cost than wood, but tend to have a longer lifespan.
Cleaning your composite deck is generally as simple as washing with soap and water a few times a year.
Wooden decks:
Wooden deck options offer a classic aesthetic at the cost of higher maintenance. They have a relatively low upfront cost, but require regular upkeep to ensure their lifespan.
Cleaning your wooden deck requires soap and water. You will also need to apply regular staining or sealing to prevent weather damage.
Framing and Materials
When the site is fully prepared, the materials will be delivered to your property. This is the stage when framing begins – that is, the structural skeleton of your deck is built.
Framing can take as little as a few days or as long as a week, depending on the size of the deck and its complexity. This frame must be carefully installed to ensure the safety and durability of the deck. Once the framing is complete, your contractor will inspect it to make sure it complies with all building codes.
Installation and Finishings
Once the frame passes inspection, the next step is installing the boards of the deck. This is when your deck really starts to take shape.
During this stage, your contractor will add any custom features to the deck, like built-in seating or railings. Once all of the decking is laid, finishing touches like staining (for wood decks) or protective coatings will be applied. These finishings ensure that your deck will withstand weather and wear for years before needing replacement.
Final Fantasy Inspections
Before you can actually use your new outdoor space, an inspector must conduct a final inspection to verify that everything meets local building codes. This is generally a very quick process in which an inspector verifies that the deck is both structurally sound and built according to the pre-approved plans.
Once the deck has passed inspection, your contractor will conduct a final walkthrough with you to make sure the deck lives up to your fantasy. This is a chance to check for any small issues or concerns before the project is officially completed.
Be sure to ask questions and go over any maintenance recommendations from your contracting company. No matter what materials you choose, there will always be some maintenance. Proper care will extend the life of your deck and ensure that it remains a stunning feature of your home for years to come.
Where Can I Find A Deck Builder in Roanoke, VA
GB Contracting is one of Roanoke’s most trusted general contractors for deck building. We strive to give you real breakdowns of cost and build processes so there are no surprises. So if you’re ready to build a deck after wishing for one all summer, we’ve got you covered!
Installing a deck is an exciting opportunity to grow your home. Get your contracting done right! Contact GB Contractingtoday to start planning your install!