You have been dreaming about it for a while now. A beautiful new deck for backyard barbecues and quiet summer evenings. But that excitement can quickly turn to stress when you start the process of finding reliable deck builders to make it happen. It feels like a huge decision, and you want to get it right. You are not alone in this feeling; many homeowners worry about choosing the wrong deck contractor. This guide walks you through the steps for finding a trusted deck builder so you can feel confident in your choice.
Where to Even Start Your Search?
That first step of creating a list of potential deck builders can feel like shouting into the wind. Where do you look? The good news is that you have more options than you think, both offline and online, to find professional building services.
Personal Referrals are Gold
Before you even open your laptop, talk to people you trust. Ask friends, family, and neighbors who have had decks built recently. They can give you an honest, unfiltered opinion about their experience with a deck-building company.
A personal story tells you more than any online review can. You can learn about the crew’s professionalism, their communication, and whether the deck project stayed on budget. This kind of firsthand information from someone you know can provide valuable insight.
Searching Online the Smart Way
Of course, you will also turn to the internet to find local deck contractors. A simple Google search can be overwhelming, so try using specific platforms designed to connect homeowners with professionals. Websites like Houzz or HomeStars are built for this purpose.
These platforms feature portfolios, customer reviews, and sometimes even badges for award-winning work. You can filter for deck builders in your area and view their past projects. You can also check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see a company’s rating and any complaints filed against it.
The Vetting Process: From a Long List to a Shortlist
Once you have a handful of potential building companies, it’s time to dig a little deeper. This is where you separate the serious professionals from the rest. Your goal is to narrow your list down to three or four strong contenders for your deck installation.
First Impressions Matter: Check Their Website and Portfolio
A professional deck builder will have a professional website. It should be clean, easy to look at, and showcase their work clearly. This is their digital storefront, and it shows they care about their image and customer service.
Spend time in their photo gallery or portfolio. Do you see a beautiful deck that looks like the one you want? Pay close attention to the details, like clean cuts, straight lines, and sturdy-looking deck construction.
If their portfolio is small or only shows one style of deck, they might not be an experienced deck builder. A robust gallery showing a variety of deck designs and decking materials suggests a history of successful projects. It gives you confidence in their ability to build your perfect deck.
Dive Into Online Reviews
Next, it is time to see what past customers are saying about different deck-building companies. Read customer reviews on Google, their website, and third-party sites. Do not just look at the star rating.
Look for patterns in what people are saying. Are multiple clients praising their open communication and cleanliness? Or are there repeated complaints about delays and surprise costs? Highlighting customer satisfaction is a good sign.
Also, see how the builder responds to negative reviews. A professional contractor will address criticism calmly and try to make things right. That is a sign of a company that stands behind its work and values its deck builder’s reputation.
Check for Credentials and Insurance
This step is not optional. A reliable contractor must have the proper credentials to operate legally and protect you. You need to ask for proof of two key things from any deck company you consider.
First is their business license and Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) coverage. WCB is critical because it protects you if a worker gets injured on your property during the deck build. You can verify a company’s coverage status directly on the WCB-Alberta website.
Second, ask for proof of liability insurance. This covers any damage to your home or property that could happen during construction. Without it, you could be left paying for expensive repairs yourself, turning your dream deck project into a nightmare.
Understanding Your Decking Material Options
A major part of your deck project is choosing the right deck material. The material affects the look, maintenance, and long-term cost of your new outdoor living space. A trusted deck builder can provide an initial consultation to discuss your options.
There are three primary types of decking material to consider: traditional wood, composite, and PVC. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these will help you choose the perfect decking for your needs and budget.
The choice of decking materials will be one of the biggest factors in your budget. It also dictates the future maintenance required to keep your outdoor area looking great. Let’s compare the most common options.
| Decking Material | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| Traditional Wood Deck | Natural beauty, lower upfront cost, and can be stained or painted any color. | Requires regular sealing or staining, is susceptible to rot and insects, and can splinter. | Homeowners who love the classic look of real wood and don’t mind annual maintenance. |
| Composite Decking | Low maintenance, resistant to rot and insects, made from recycled wood fibers and plastics. | Higher initial cost, can get hot in direct sun, and some older products can look less natural. | Those wanting a durable, low-maintenance outdoor decking solution with a wood-like appearance. |
| PVC Decking (Decking PVC) | Extremely durable and low maintenance, highly resistant to stains, scratches, and mold, often lighter than composite. | Highest upfront cost, can expand and contract with temperature changes, less eco-friendly than composite. | People are looking for the ultimate in low-maintenance performance and longevity for their PVC decks. |
Asking the Right Questions: The Interview Stage
With your shortlist in hand, it is time to make some calls. Think of this as an interview; you are the one doing the hiring. A good deck builder will be happy to answer your questions because they want you to feel comfortable before you build deck components.
Their answers will reveal a lot about their experience, process, and approach to customer service. Pay close attention not just to what they say, but how they say it. Clear, patient, and direct communication is a hallmark of a professional.
Here is a list of what you should ask:
- How long have you specifically been building decks in the Calgary area? An experienced deck builder knows how to work with local climate and soil conditions, which is essential for a durable local deck.
- Will you or a dedicated project manager be on-site every day? Knowing who your point of contact is for the deck construction helps things run smoothly.
- Can you provide contact information for three recent references? Talking to past clients is a powerful verification step for any building company.
- Who handles getting the necessary permits? A professional builder should manage the building permit process for you, as they are familiar with local building codes.
- What is your process for the project? Ask about everything from material delivery to daily cleanup and final inspection of the outdoor living space.
- Do you have your own crew, or do you use subcontractors? This affects the timeline and consistency of the work – knowing who will be on your property is important.
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your workmanship? A solid warranty shows they are confident in their work and the quality materials they use.
- What is your approach to decking design? Ask if the company offers custom deck design services to help create your perfect outdoor oasis.
- What decking material do you recommend for our climate and budget? An expert can explain the benefits of a composite deck versus a wood deck for a specific Calgary deck.
The Essential Guide to Finding Reliable Deck Builders in Calgary
Now we get into the final decision-making steps. This part of the process focuses on the details that protect your investment. You will compare quotes, check references, and make sure everything is in line with local building regulations.
Getting and Comparing Quotes
Try to get at least three detailed quotes from your top contenders. It is important to remember that the lowest price is not always the best choice for your outdoor space. A strangely low bid could be a red flag for a deck builder cutting corners or using subpar materials.
A proper quote should be a detailed document, not just a number on a piece of paper. It needs to break down all the costs, including labor, a list of size materials, permit fees, and waste disposal. The more detail, the better, as it leaves less room for surprises later on.
Compare the quotes line by line to understand the full scope of the deck-building services offered. Do they all use the same highest quality materials? Is the scope of work identical? This helps you make a true apples-to-apples comparison between deck-building companies.
Don’t Skip the Reference Checks
Some people feel awkward calling strangers, but this is a crucial step. A builder’s past clients are your best source of truth about their work. Most people are happy to share their experience with a deck contractor, both good and bad.
When you call, ask specific questions. Was the deck project completed on time? Did it stay within the original budget? How did the crew handle communication, and were they respectful of your property and outdoor area?
The most powerful question you can ask is simple: Would you hire them again? The answer to that question tells you almost everything you need to know about their experience building decks.
Understanding Calgary’s Deck Permit Rules
Deck building is not a free-for-all activity. The City of Calgary has specific building codes to make sure structures are safe. Any reliable deck builder will know these rules inside and out and will insist on following them.
Generally, you will need a building permit for any deck that is more than 0.6 meters (about 2 feet) above the ground at any point. A permit is also needed if the deck will have a roof. You can find all the details on the City of Calgary’s website for deck permits.
A professional contractor will handle the application process for you. They understand the local building requirements and what inspectors look for. Be very wary of any builder who suggests you skip the permit to save money, as this puts all the risk on you.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Part of finding a great contractor is knowing how to spot a bad one. As you talk to different deck contractors near you, keep an eye out for these warning signs. If something feels off, it probably is.
- High-Pressure Sales: A good builder will not rush you. Be careful of anyone who pressures you to sign a contract on the spot with a “special price only good for today.”
- Large Upfront Deposit: A small deposit for materials is normal. But a request for 50% or more of the project cost upfront, especially in cash, is a major red flag.
- Vague Contracts: If the contract is unclear or lacks detail, walk away. Everything should be in writing to protect both you and the building company.
- No Physical Address: A legitimate business should have a physical address or office, not just a P.O. box or a cell phone number. This adds a layer of accountability.
- Avoids Showing Credentials: If they get defensive when you ask for their license or insurance, that is a bad sign. Reputable contractors are proud to show their qualifications.
- Poor Communication: A contractor who is hard to reach during the quote process will likely be even harder to reach once they have your deposit.
Trust your gut feeling. If a builder makes you feel uneasy for any reason, it is better to move on to the next one on your list. There are plenty of great professionals ready to help build decks.
Signing on the Dotted Line: The Contract
You have done your research, checked references, and chosen your builder. The final step before work begins is signing the contract. This document is your most important piece of protection for your new living space.
Read every single word before you sign. It should contain a detailed scope of work that lists exactly what will be done, from demolition of an old structure to the final touches on the new one. It should also include a complete list of materials, including brands and colors for your PVC deck or composite deck.
The contract must also clearly state the total cost and a payment schedule. Payments should be tied to project milestones, like “foundation complete” or “framing complete.” Never pay the final amount until you are 100% satisfied with the work and have done a final walkthrough.
Look for start and estimated completion dates, as well as a clause about how any changes or delays will be handled. Finally, make sure the builder’s warranty information is written directly into the agreement. A solid contract protects both you and the builder and ensures there is a clear plan to create your dream deck.
Conclusion
That backyard oasis you have been dreaming of is completely within reach. Building a new deck is a big project, but it does not have to be a source of stress. By taking a thoughtful and organized approach to finding reliable deck builders, you can move forward with confidence.
The process requires patience and due diligence on your part, but the effort now will save you from major headaches later. This commitment is the best way to protect your investment. Following these steps will help you find a trusted deck builder to create a beautiful, safe deck you will enjoy for years to come.
