Common Mistakes Made by DIY Deck Builders

We totally get it. Doing some things on your own saves money. However, when it comes to building a major addition to your home, all you DIYers out there should really think twice. Building your own deck may appear to save you money but if it is done incorrectly, you will incur the expense of having to do it all over again. Or you will have the additional expense of constantly having to repair and correct flaws that should have never been made in the first place. In fact, DIY deck builders commonly make mistakes that the professionals simply do not. Here are just a few.

• Not applying for the necessary permits: Before you start a major construction project around you home such as a deck or new room, certain permits are often needed. These permits are not meant to harass homeowners. The purpose of such permits is to ensure that such work does not end up being a danger to your family or the community at large. Building requirements vary from city to city and from county to county so it is best to check with your municipality before attempting to erect a deck. Talk to us as well as we can give you advice on seeking these permits.
• Not selecting the right materials: Some people may believe that all wood is the same. Nothing could be further from the truth. Natural wood, for example, can be a good building material for decks as long as it is treated first. Professionals will know which material best suits your needs and can build your deck out of essentially maintenance-free, long lasting materials.
• Building inadequate deck post footers: To support a deck’s massive weight, it must be supported by rock-solid, unmovable footers which are implanted in a solid foundation. Failing to do this properly can result in a disaster. Experts will know how to figure out the best way to secure your deck with footers so that the structure will be in little danger of collapsing.
• Not using corrosive resistant fasteners: Naturally since your deck is outside your home it will constantly be exposed to the elements. Our experts know just the right fasteners and other building materials to give your deck a fighting chance against rain, snow, etc.
• Incorrectly attaching guardrail posts: This error is as common as it is potentially dangerous. Done incorrectly, this part of your deck can also collapse putting lives at risk.

In other words, just because you can do some things on your own does not mean that this is the wise thing to do on all occasions. Some jobs are better left to professionals. Our NJ Deck refinishing company will make a deck for you that is safer and less expensive in the long term. We also specialize in deck repair in NJ.