You might think that San Antonio deck builders are all building contractors. Tomato, tomahto – right? Not so much.
When you’re ready to build a new deck for your Hill Country home, you might start by searching for deck builders near me. However, as you dig into your research and begin to contact deck installation companies, you will probably learn that just because you’re speaking to someone that builds decks, you might not automatically be speaking with a deck contractor. Here’s what you should know before you hire someone to build your new deck – or any outdoor living space, for that matter.
Is There a Difference Between Deck Builders and Contractors?
There can be a huge difference between the two. The unfortunate truth is that some small-time deck builders do not maintain a contractor’s license. Others have never gotten one in the first place. Why? Well, in some locales, a General Contractor’s license is not a requirement for building decks. In San Antonio specifically, a deck builder needs only to register with city’s Development Services department to obtain permitting for the project. If your deck design is under 200 square feet and/or less than 30 inches off the ground, a permit might be required at all.
NOTE: At Archadeck of San Antonio Hill Country, we implore anyone, who wishes to build a new outdoor living space, to do so within the law (at minimum).
What Is a Deck Builder?
Technically speaking, a deck builder should be one who specializes in designing an constructing decks. They should have extensive deck construction experience, as well as experience with and knowledge of the materials used to build decks. These include composite decking materials, pressure-treated lumber, and specialty woods. They should be knowledgeable about multi-level construction, roof construction, as well as other types of amenities, like built-in seating, deck railing, and pergolas.
A deck contractor is a licensed professional or entity that manages deck construction projects. They have professional design capabilities, vast construction knowledge and experience, and they oversee every aspect of deck construction – permitting, inspections, and various trades, such as carpentry, masonry, electrical, and others.
As San Antonio deck contractors, the Archadeck team is all these things – and we perform all these things. We can manage every aspect of deck construction from inception to the very last inspection. As a full-service deck construction contractor, you will also feel better knowing that we are fully insured and offer warranties for every deck we build.
NOTE: While other deck builders are also licensed contractors, they might focus only on the physical deck installation, leaving the permitting and leg work to the homeowner.
Is Project Licensing and Insurance Really That Important?
Yes, it is. If you intend to build a new deck that exceeds the maximum square footage or height requirements in your municipality, it is not advisable to forego hiring an actual licensed contractor that carries at least the minimum requirements. Structural work, electrical components, and utility work (i.e. gas lines for fireplaces) all require proper permitting and inspections.
Hiring someone who is not a licensed and insured contractor can put you at risk, physically and financially. Improperly built structures can fail, resulting in harm to yourself or someone else. If damage is done or someone is injured during your deck construction project, putting you at legal and financial risk if your builder is not properly licensed or insured.
Allow Archadeck of San Antonio Hill Country to earn your business. Our design-build process, paired with our guarantees and warranties eliminates the worry and risk that you might experience with other San Antonio deck contractors. We want you to love your new outdoor space and will work tirelessly to help you achieve exactly the backyard living area you have always dreamed of.
Get in touch with our Design Consultants for a complimentary outdoor living design consultation at (210) 702-3223 or click here to begin!
