Questions to Ask When Deciding on a Deck Design in Fort Collins, CO

3D CAD deck

3d deck previewA deck is one of the best additions you can put on your house. They’re perfect for relaxing outside on a summer night, hosting neighborhood barbecues and a myriad of other great outdoor activities. They also add tremendous value to your home and can have a relatively low installation cost. A home really isn’t complete without a deck.

Once you’ve determined you need a deck, you have to decide on a deck design in Fort Collins, CO. The possibilities are really only limited by your imagination, but it’s also important to consider the activities you’ll be enjoying on the deck, as well as the layout of your backyard and, of course, your budget.

What will you be doing on your deck?

Since you’ll hopefully be spending quite a bit of time outside on your deck, you should try to narrow down what activities you’ll usually be doing while you’re out there. If you’re planning on hosting BBQs and other parties out back, you’ll want to ensure your deck is large enough to accommodate all of your guests. Going along with that, if there’s a grill on the deck, you need to make sure in can be situated far enough away from your house so that there’s no risk of a fire. If, however, you just want to relax on your deck and maybe get a nice suntan, you don’t need a huge deck, and you can save some money by going smaller.

What’s your backyard like?

The size and shape of your deck will depend a lot on what your back yard is like. For example, if you have a small backyard, it’d probably look pretty weird if you built a huge deck. If you don’t have a lot of tall trees in your yard, you might consider adding a retractable awning or even a pergola to block the sun and keep you cool on hot days.

What’s your house like?

Along with considering what type of yard you have, you need to decide how you’d like your deck to look on the back of your home. If you have a multi-story home, it might be cool to have a two-level deck, but of course that will be more expensive. A deck that spans the length of your house could be really fun, but again, that’s more expensive.

What’s your budget?

Deciding how much you can or want to spend on a new deck is one of the most important factors when choosing a deck design in Fort Collins, CO. The size of your deck will be a huge factor in how much your deck will cost, but so is the material you choose to use. A standard wooden deck is always popular, but wood can be expensive, and wood decks also require quite a bit of upkeep. This is why decks made out of composite materials are all the rage these days. Composite decks made of plastic and wood give you all of the beauty and enjoyment of a wooden deck, but without the high cost and hassle of upkeep.

Once you’ve decided upon a deck design in Fort Collins, CO give TNT Home Improvements a call to make your dream deck a reality!

The Numerous Benefits of Wood Decks in Fort Collins, CO

pic of a multitiered deck w/under-decking built in Fort Collins, CO

There are many quality decking options available in the marketplace today, but one certainly stands out above the rest. If you have been on the fence about adding a wood deck in Fort Collins, CO, consider a few of these hidden benefits that might help make your decision easier:

  • Cost efficiency: The price of natural wood is substantially lower than most decking alternatives, with composite materials sometimes costing twice as much. Although there will be variations in the price of wood due to the wide variety of options, it is still the most cost-effective material currently available. Not only does the material cost less, but wood decks are also cheaper to install than some of the composite alternatives. Oftentimes, with less durable material, hundreds of dollars of reinforcements are needed to strengthen a deck. Because wood is naturally more sturdy, these expensive additions aren’t necessary. In addition, composite decks are made up of several different materials, which drives up manufacturing costs. With minimal manufacturing needed, the production costs of wood are much lower, which allows customers to procure it at a better price. One of the most affordable options in decking material is pressure treated wood, which has a natural resistance to the effects of both weather and wood-eating insects, thus extending the lifespan of a deck. With a deck that could potentially last much longer, you will be able to get the most out of your investment.
  • Stay cooler during the summer: During the summer months, natural wood does not soak up the heat from the sun, which means that the time you spend on your deck will be comfortable and enjoyable. Some of the other decking options absorb so much heat that the deck becomes unbearable to stand on, which might force you back inside on an otherwise beautiful and sunny day. In fact, some of these decks retain so much heat that it is eventually radiated onto your windows and deck doors, which could potentially heat the walls in your house and nullify the effects of your air conditioning. With natural wood decking, your family will be able to enjoy a cooler deck that doesn’t project heat onto your house, no matter how hot it may be.
  • Quality material: Although some of the composite decking materials might come close to achieving the same look as natural wood, there is no substitute for the warmth and comfort that real wood provides. And while the aesthetic can be mimicked, there is no denying the look of authentic wood. No other material can evoke the same feelings that the smell and feel of natural wood do, and this serenity encourages you to spend more time on your deck enjoying nature. Your natural wood deck will be a part of your home for years to come, and the wood can be used for many other things after its time as a deck is complete. Twenty years from now, when you are upgrading your deck, you can repurpose the used wood for fires or small projects around the house.

With so many benefits, it is easy to see why wood decks in Fort Collins, CO are the preferred option for so many consumers. If you are interested in adding wood decking of your own, call the best in the business at TNT Home Improvements to get a free estimate for your project.

How to Select the Best Material for Deck Building in Fort Collins, CO

close up of wood decking

With so many options for deck building in Fort Collins, CO, it can be difficult to decide which material is best. Making the selection that is best for you will come down to figuring out which material is most compatible with your needs and circumstances. Here are a couple of things to consider when you are planning for your new deck.

Considering the climate

No matter which type of decking material you select, the climate of the area that you live in will play a huge factor in your deck’s longevity. Because your deck will be exposed to all types of elements every season, it is important to pay attention to the specific conditions that your deck will have to face year-round. Decks made with composite materials tend to absorb and hold onto heat at a higher rate, so it might be best to avoid these materials in excessively warm climates. In fact, if you live in an area that experiences scorching heat for any length of time during the year, a composite deck could become so warm that it becomes uncomfortable to stand on, barefoot or otherwise.

On the other hand, a lot of rain and snow annually will accelerate the weathering of a wood deck. Heavy exposure to water will continue to weaken the sealing on the wood over time, as well as increase the risk of moisture damage that could cause the wood to begin to rot. In this case, the stain-proof finish that is characteristic on composite wood decks would be a better choice than natural wood. With all of this in mind, knowing what kind of weather your deck will have to combat will help you to make the best decision about which type of decking material will hold up best.

Weighing cost and maintenance requirements

Because composite wood is made up of several different materials, the cost is substantially more than natural wood. Composite materials also aren’t as fundamentally strong as natural wood, so additional money will have to be spent to reinforce the structural soundness of these types of decks. But while the installation and materials for composite decks cost more than that of natural wood, wood decking might end up costing more in the long run due to the extensive maintenance that will be necessary to keep the wood in good condition. Composite decks do not require yearly re-staining and resealing, because the material is already stain and weather proof. Composite wood also does not possess the same vulnerability to rotting and splintering as natural wood, which means that less money will be spent on repairs during the life of the deck.

How you want your deck to look and hold up, along with an analysis of your specific climate, will help you make the decision about which material will be best for your deck building in Fort Collins, CO. If you find that you need additional help making this decision, or are ready to begin building your deck, contact the knowledgeable staff at TNT Home Improvements today for a free estimate.

How to Hire a Quality Deck Builder in Fort Collins, CO

cutting a decking board

With the weather warming up, you’re probably dreaming of summer afternoons spent relaxing on a backyard deck. A well designed and constructed deck can turn any backyard into a summer retreat.

But before you begin creating your dream backyard, you’ll have to find a quality contractor to get the job done. This professional should have the knowledge and experience to create a beautiful deck with both strong footings and sufficient supports.

It can be difficult to find a skilled and reliable professional with so many different options on the market. To help make the process easier, here are a few tips on how to find a quality deck builder in Fort Collins, CO:

Plan your ideal deck

Try to have a vision of your ideal deck before you even start looking for a contractor. Consider what you would like it to look like and any materials you want to use. This way you’ll have a foundation to work with when you start working with contractors. Take this time to establish a rough budget. A professional will then be able to provide additional recommendations to help make your idea a reality.

Check reviews

Did your desire for a new deck start after a friend or neighbor recently had one built? If so, gauge their impression and sense of satisfaction regarding their choice in contractor and whether they would recommend that person. Online reviews are another great way to get an unbiased opinion of contractors that have been vetted by others who were previously in your position. Try to reach out to the reviewer for a better sense of how the work has held up under the elements.

Meet with deck builders

Your list should hopefully be done to just a few local contractors after reading through reviews. The next step is to meet with each builder individually to better determine which company is best suited for the job. You’ll want to ask the following questions before making your decision:

  • When was your company established?
  • Are you licensed and insured?
  • Do you offer a warranty?
  • How long do you think the project will take?

The responses should give you a better insight into how reliable the company is and whether they are going to be slow and unresponsive because they have too many other projects on their plate.

Written estimate

After the interview, ask each contractor to provide you with a hard copy of an estimate for any costs associated with your project. This should include a detailed breakdown of any materials, in addition to the cost of labor.

A quality contractor will also provide prices for any landscaping that might be necessary and the cost of clean up, such as hauling away debris. It may seem obvious, but be realistic with your budget. Don’t opt for a contractor that is estimating that the project will cost two times your allotted budget.

Make your decision

Now that you’ve done your research, interviewed and have an estimate it’s time to make your final selection and draw up a contract. Hopefully, you’ll be on your way to a beautiful backyard retreat in just a few weeks’ time.

Six Qualities to Look for in a Deck Builder in Fort Collins, CO

pic of a cordless drill used in deck building

If you are considering installing a deck on your home, you are in need of a good deck builder in Fort Collins, CO. There are several out there, but how do you know which is the right one for you? By looking for these qualifications when you are searching for a deck builder, you will be certain to have a pleasant experience during your deck project:

  • Experience

    : Look for a deck builder in Fort Collins, CO that has experience. Find out how long they have been in business and ask for referrals. You will want to look at work they have done to gauge if they are up to your standards. Also contacting references will allow you to see what others’ experiences were with this deck builder.

  • Proof of license and insurance:

    You will most definitely want to go with a deck builder in Fort Collins, CO that has a license to perform the work they are promising. Don’t try to cut corners and go with someone cheaper that is not licensed—you will only have problems. Also, check to see if they are insured. You don’t want to be responsible if an accident occurs on the job. Ask to see proof of insurance before you let them begin the work.

    picture of a deck built in larimer county featuring a planter box and arbor

     

  • Knowledgeable on your project type:

    Maybe you have a very specific deck project in mind. You will want to talk to your contractor about their knowledge of the features you are looking for. Make sure they understand what you’re asking for and that they can deliver on their promises. See if they have done this type of deck design before.

  • Good communication skills:

    Be sure you like the personality and communication skills of your deck builder in Fort Collins, CO. You will be talking with them often, and you want to make sure they understand every detail of what your expectations. Look for good conversation skills so you have a good working relationship with your contractor throughout the entire deck project.

  • A budget-friendly quote:

    When getting an estimate, make sure it is within your budget. You don’t want a contractor that ignores the budget you have established for your deck project. You want to make sure they stay within a reasonable amount of what you have set aside. If they go over your expectations, ask why, and listen for a good explanation. A deck building company in Fort Collins, CO should give some affordable options that you can decide on.

  • Support a local business:

    Hiring a business that is local to your area will provide some additional benefits to your deck project. You will be working with a contractor that is familiar with the area and neighborhood. In fact, they have probably done deck projects for your neighbors. By supporting a local business, you are also giving back to the community by creating jobs in your area and allowing a deck builder to keep money in the community.

Knowing these tips when you are looking for a deck builder in Fort Collins, CO will make your entire building process a lot easier. You will have a quality deck that you love, within your budget. TNT Home Improvements is a fully licensed and insured deck building company that offers free estimates and a competitive rate that is sure to fit your budget. Call us today to schedule a consultation!

Looking for a local deck contractor for your next project? Give TNT Home Improvements a call at 970-663-2868 or fill out the contact form at https://tnthomeimprovements.com