Hiring a deck builder in Georgetown takes a little more care than you might think, because Texas has no state license for deck builders.
At a Glance
- No state license for deck builders
- The builder should pull the permit
- Payments tied to finished work
- Same scope on every estimate
No License Means More Questions
Plumbers and electricians in Texas carry state licenses. Deck builders do not. Anyone can print a card. That puts the job of checking on you. These questions sort out a careful builder from a risky one.
Questions to Ask
- Will you pull the city permit? In Georgetown, decks are on the permit list. The answer should be yes.
- Who prepares the survey plan and impervious cover worksheet? The city wants both.
- What goes in the frame? Ask about the posts, footings, beams, joists and how the deck ties to the house.
- What screws and hangers do you use? Treated wood needs coated or stainless parts.
- How long will it take? Plan review alone is fifteen to twenty business days.
- When do I pay? Payments should follow finished work.
- What happens if you hit rock or roots? Ask how surprises are priced.
Read the Estimate Closely
A good estimate lists the size, the decking, the rails, the stairs, the permit and the clean up. If two estimates differ by a lot, check whether they list the same things. Often one leaves out the permit or uses a lighter frame.
Red Flags
- Asking you to skip the permit
- Cash only and the full price up front
- No written estimate
- Pressure to sign today
Planning for the Long Term
If you plan to stay in your home for years, ask about easy access stairs and rails now. A rail on both sides and short steps cost little to add during the build.
Questions About How to Hire
Should I pay the full price up front?
Be careful with that. A fair deal ties payments to work that is done. Ask when each payment is due and what has to be finished first.
Who should pull the permit?
The builder should. It shows they plan to build to code and pass the city inspections. If someone asks you to skip the permit, find another builder.
How many estimates should I get?
Two or three is plenty. Make sure each one lists the same size, boards and rails, so you are comparing the same job.