How does the deck-building process work?
Align Decking’s Deck Building Process
Our top priority at Align Decking is providing our clients with a seamless and hassle-free experience, from conceptualization all the way through to final completion. As a full-service deck design and construction company, Align Decking takes care of the entire project from start to finish, providing updates and communicating with the client during all project phases. This guide will go over how an Align Decking project flows from beginning to end.
1. Free Dream-Deck Consultation
The consultation phase is a critical first step during a new decking building project. The consultation typically begins via electronic communication such as a phone call or email conversation, followed by a site visit.
During this phase, homeowners often share ideas they have regarding the design and material choices for their new deck. Sharing photos of decks and styles that you like is a great way to help us understand exactly what fits your style, and what doesn’t. We will together discuss different material options and finishes, as well as explore various design elements and styles. The project budget will be discussed to determine what design elements and material choices will work for you.
Surveying the site and taking dimensions will also take place during the consultation phase. This helps us quote jobs efficiently to remain as competitive as possible, as well as understanding and potential terrain constraints that may impact the project.
The consultation phase is also a great time to raise any concerns or ask any questions you may have regarding the project. If you think of something after the consultation phase, always feel free to reach out to us!
2. Deck Design and 3D Renderings
If there’s one thing we love as much as building decks, it’s designing them! Seeing is believing. As a full-service decking company, we offer deck design and visualization services to our clients. Whether you have a design already in mind or have no idea what you are looking for, our design team will ensure your deck is designed to perfectly fit your taste, needs, and budget.
Photorealistic 3D renderings and virtual video walkthroughs help show our clients exactly what they are getting. Renderings enable us to visualize the project right down to the material colour, and make changes or revisions on the fly based on client input. Many deck builders offer only 2D sketches of a project before construction starts, but for us, that just won’t do!
3. Tailored Project Proposal
Following the finalization of design, material/finish choices, and costs, we present a project proposal for your review and approval. The proposal will summarize all aspects of the project and the payment structure. We are available to go over the proposal with you either virtually over the phone or in-person to ensure everything is as it should be. During this time, we also discuss any special requests a client may have as well as go over project timelines and administrative items such as parking, site access, and power availability.
4. Engineering and Permitting
Once the designs have been approved by you and agreements have been signed, the engineering and permitting phase of your deck can begin. During this phase, locates are performed on the building site by a licensed contractor to determine the location of gas, hydro, and communications lines. Because foundation work involves drilling down 4 feet or more, it’s critical that we know the location of any underground infrastructure.
Depending on many factors including your local township, and project scope, engineering drawings may be drafted and submitted to an engineer for stamping and approval. If building permits are required or requested for your project, we will work with you and your local municipality/township to complete the permitting process. All of our decks are designed and constructed to meet or exceed local and provincial building codes.
5. Deck Construction
With everything else out of the way and all due diligence is taken care of, the fun part can begin! Our in-house team of builders will arrive at the site at the designated time and date and begin the construction process. Our builders typically start on-site at 8 am and work until 6-8 pm depending on the season or customer requests. At the end of each day, the site is cleaned up and left tidy. Any hazards associated with the construction site will be visually marked and identified to the homeowner. Upon project completion, the site is given a final clean-up and left looking spotless. Homeowners with lawns can expect some temporary yellowing due to the increased foot traffic during construction.
That’s it! Your new deck is ready to enjoy for years to come!
Want to make your deck-building process a breeze?
Align Decking is experienced in designing and building custom decks across the GTA and Southern Ontario. We have experience working with municipalities to secure building permits and ensure your project remains on track. Complete the contact form below with any questions about your upcoming decking project. We will reply as soon as possible to schedule a free deck design consultation to see if we’re a good fit for your deck-building needs.