By: Darla Grant-Braid
The temperature is warming (ever so slightly) and the sky is beautifully blue once again … spring is on the way. That means it’s time to get serious about planning backyard projects. For many Canadians, adding or repairing a deck is a top priority, with the age-old question being, should you hire a professional deck builder or build the deck yourself?
As tempting as it may be to try and build your own deck, the truth is that DIY decks can put the safety of your family and friends at risk. We spoke with Frank McGillan –Owner of Decks R Us, a renowned deck builder in Durham Region, Ontario about why safety should be the number one priority when it comes to building a deck.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY
Deck building is one of those projects that household handymen have been attempting for generations. Armed with rudimentary carpentry knowledge, a group of able-bodied friends, and usually too much beer/pop/pizza, they take on the task of building a structure intended to support hundreds or even thousands of pounds at any given time.
While it is possible for some home builders to have a working knowledge of framing and decking, there is much more involved in building a safe, reliable deck.
“Many times, there is a building code that needs to be adhered to,” McGillan explains. “Most DIYers do not know the building code and have problems later.” In fact, he suggests that certain deck repairs should be left to the professionals as well. If the repairs are structural, such as beams, framing, or railings, the safest option is to hire a professional deck builder.
Understandably, most DIY deck building projects happen in an effort to save money. Unfortunately, this can result in the exact opposite. If a DIY deck build or repair should fail, it can end up costing more money to have it corrected. Even worse, if people are injured due to the failure of that deck, it can result in legal fees, reparation for the injured party, and even emotional costs.
Hiring a Deck Builder
When you’re ready to hire a deck builder, take time to do some research. Narrow your search down to at least three deck contractors. Take a look at websites, read reviews, and browse image galleries of their past projects.
It helps to have a few questions in mind when you contract your short list of contractors. “[Be sure to ask] how many years of experience they have, and if they have an eye for detail,” McGillan says.
Mr. McGillan also says to be on the look out for one very important thing. “If they tell you that you don’t need a permit, walk away! Only decks that are 24 inches or less don’t need permits.”
Keep in mind that you’re going to be working closely with your deck builder, so be sure to access their customer service. For example, anyone looking for a deck builder in Durham will discover that Decks R Us has a strong believe in providing outstanding deck design, building, and unbeatable customer care.
“Decks R Us never asks for a deposit, and we never charge for permit drawings,” McGillan says. “When we start we stay and finish. No going from job to job.”
About Decksrus
Over the last 35 years, Frank McGillan and Decks R Us have built over 1,000 decks. They specialize in deck building an renovation, custom caps, an custom railings. To see galleries of their work and for more information, visit www.decksrus.ca .
*Article courtesy of EiEiHome