Choosing the Right Deck Builder: Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Hiring a contractor to build your custom deck isn’t just about finding someone with tools and time. It’s about trusting someone with your home, your vision, and a project that will likely become a central part of your outdoor life.
Whether you're dreaming up a new build or replacing an old structure, the stakes are high—especially in a climate like Minnesota, where decks need to withstand everything from blazing heat to heavy snowfall. The right deck builder can mean the difference between a long-lasting, low-maintenance outdoor space and a costly headache. And with the number of contractors out there, knowing what to ask upfront can help you avoid expensive mistakes.
Before signing a contract or handing over a deposit, you need to know how to evaluate credentials, spot true craftsmanship, and understand what protections you have if things go wrong. Do they hold relevant certifications? Can they show examples of past work that match the quality you expect? And perhaps most critically, are there any warning signs that should make you walk away before you get in too deep?
Throughout this article, we’ll cover five crucial areas to help you make a confident and informed choice. If you're ready to start with a trusted deck builder, understanding these points will help you move forward with clarity and confidence!
Understanding Credentials and Certifications: What Matters
Licensing, bonding, and insurance are non-negotiable for any legitimate contractor. A licensed deck builder operates with permission from the state or local jurisdiction, meeting specific standards in building codes and safety regulations. Insurance—both general liability and worker's compensation—protects you in case of property damage or on-site injuries. Bonding adds another layer of financial security by guaranteeing project completion or compensation for unfulfilled terms.
Beyond legal requirements, certifications from product manufacturers and trade associations add credibility. For instance, TimberTech and Trex offer certifications to contractors who meet their installation standards. A builder certified in composite decking will know best practices for spacing, ventilation, and hidden fastener systems. Trade associations such as NADRA (North American Deck and Railing Association) provide continued education, code awareness, and ethics guidelines that reflect an elevated level of professionalism.
Don't hesitate to ask for proof. A qualified contractor should provide license numbers, insurance certificates, and documentation of any specialized training. These credentials directly reflect their knowledge, responsibility, and commitment to industry standards. Start your vetting process with a properly credentialed deck builder to avoid major setbacks later.
Reviewing Portfolios: Identifying Quality Work
A contractor’s portfolio should be more than a photo gallery—it should be a window into their capabilities, design sensibility, and attention to detail. Look for variety in style, scale, and materials. Do the projects reflect creative design solutions? Are the lines clean and symmetrical? Are there visible signs of craftsmanship, such as flush fasteners, even spacing, and integrated lighting or railing systems?
Ask for project details. Was the deck built on a slope? Did it incorporate unique features like pergolas or built-in seating? Understanding the scope helps you evaluate their problem-solving skills and project management experience. High-quality builders often document challenges and the solutions they implement, offering more insight into their process than images alone can show.
Ideally, the portfolio should include completed projects that match your goals—whether that’s multi-level platforms, integrated staircases, or mixed materials. Try to inspect any projects in person, if possible. Completed decks reveal much about quality once exposed to weather. If you’re interested in learning about the builder’s approach and style, visit their 'About Us' page to gain a deeper understanding of their design philosophy and experience.
Understanding Warranties and Guarantees
Warranties are critical because they define your recourse if something goes wrong. You should expect two types: the manufacturer’s product warranty and the contractor’s workmanship warranty. Manufacturer warranties often cover defects in decking materials, like warping or discoloration, for 25 years or more—especially with composite brands like Trex or TimberTech. However, these warranties can be voided by incorrect installation, which makes choosing a certified installer even more important.
Workmanship warranties, by contrast, protect you from issues caused by improper installation, such as loose railings, misaligned stairs, or uneven deck boards. These warranties are typically shorter, ranging from one to five years, and vary significantly from one builder to another. Make sure the warranty is in writing and clearly explains what is covered and for how long.
Ask whether the company has had warranty claims and how they handled them. An experienced builder should stand behind their work and offer clear, fair terms. Avoid vague answers or builders who dodge warranty questions altogether. It often reflects how they’ll handle issues down the road.
Assessing Communication and Customer Service
Effective communication starts with responsiveness. Does the builder return your calls and emails promptly? Are they willing to meet in person or schedule video consultations to discuss your ideas? A reliable contractor maintains clear and timely communication at every stage—during estimates, material selection, permitting, and scheduling.
Transparency is another sign of professionalism. The contractor should provide a detailed written estimate, project timeline, and material list. Any delays or changes should be communicated in advance with honest reasoning. You should never be left guessing about status or expectations. Some contractors use project management software or messaging platforms to keep clients updated in real-time, improving clarity across teams.
Look at reviews that mention client experience, not just build quality. Consistent praise for responsiveness, professionalism, and updates throughout the job are strong indicators of good customer service. Avoid contractors who dodge questions, rush consultations, or show disinterest in your project goals. These behaviors tend to escalate during construction.
Red Flags: When to Walk Away from a Contractor
Certain warning signs indicate it’s time to cut ties before you’re in too deep. A lack of licensing or insurance is an immediate disqualifier. So is high-pressure sales behavior, such as pushing you to sign a contract immediately or offering a steep “today only” discount. Reputable contractors don’t rely on tactics—they let their work and reputation speak for them.
Be wary of vague or missing contracts. Every aspect of the build—scope, materials, timeline, payment structure—should be documented in writing. If a contractor resists formal paperwork, that’s a red flag. Likewise, a consistently negative or evasive attitude when asked for credentials, past work, or warranty details should raise concern. Trust and transparency are non-negotiable when dealing with projects of this scale.
Trust your instincts. If the communication feels off, the answers are inconsistent, or something doesn’t feel right during early discussions, walk away. It’s much easier to vet the right contractor at the start than to resolve problems mid-build. If needed, reconnect with a proven professional like BigDeck.com for a more dependable experience.
Work With Big Deck to Get It Done Right
If you’re ready to get serious about your outdoor space, BigDeck.com is ready to build it. With years of experience across Savage and the Twin Cities, we combine expert craftsmanship with a process that’s clear, straightforward, and tailored to your goals.
Every deck we build is backed by detailed planning, reliable warranties, and professionals who know composite, wood, and custom solutions inside and out. When you're evaluating builders for credentials, portfolio quality, warranties, communication, and professionalism, BigDeck.com has real answers, not promises.
To speak with the team, get a detailed quote, or view more of our work, reach us by phone at 612-432-7761 or stop by our office at 5485 135th Street, Savage, MN 55378. Build smart. Build bold. Build with BigDeck.com!