The Whitmer Decks Process
The deck building process involves meticulous planning, expert craftsmanship, and attention to detail to create an outdoor space that seamlessly integrates with your home and enhances your lifestyle. Select a phase below to view our process at Whitmer Decks.
01. Plan
The pivotal first step in your project journey is selecting the right contractor. When you meet with Whitmer Decks for your initial consultation, we’ll gladly furnish you with a list of references. Speaking with these references and asking a few key questions will guide you toward the answer to your most important question: Can I trust this contractor with my project?
Ask yourself:
- Did they listen to you?
- Did they complete the work when promised?
- Did they start and finish on schedule?
- Did they work every weekday (weather permitting)?
- Did the same crew come every day?
- Did you end up paying what was originally agreed on?
The tools available today make it very easy to do background checks on most contractors. You can check standings with the
Better Business Bureau. You can also review customer comments about contractors on sites like:
These platforms offer valuable client feedback on contractors and their teams, providing insights into specific job experiences from the client’s perspective. Comparing contractors and knowing which questions to ask can be challenging, but our “Choosing Your Contractor” checklist can help you identify key qualities for comparison.
We genuinely hope for the opportunity to meet with you and tailor a plan to meet your unique desires and requirements.
Working with you as our valued customer, we will:
Define operational boundaries.
Determine if approval is needed from your Homeowner’s Association Architectural Review Board (ARB), which can be restrictive in many cases. Some Homeowner’s Associations will not deal directly with contractors. However, we are here to support you when you meet with them.
Navigate building codes and inspection processes.
These can can vary by county and be complex. We’ll manage design approval to secure building permits, coordinate inspections and provide follow-up as necessary.
Address any potential concerns with neighbors.
These include privacy issues with your new deck or screened porch. Given our extensive experience in these areas,
Whitmer Decks is committed to assisting you with these and any other challenges that may arise.
02. Design
Now, it’s time to establish the fundamental parameters and craft the actual design for construction. What sets Whitmer Decks apart is our meticulous attention to detail throughout every stage, from initial planning to final design, and the utilization of high-quality materials. We recognize that your deck is a significant investment in your home, intended for long-term enjoyment.
Moreover, we understand the value of yard space and strive to plan construction accordingly, especially in instances such as townhouses where space is limited. With numerous design options available, each comes with its own tradeoffs. At Whitmer Decks, we collaborate with you to strike a balance between initial cost, functionality, appearance, and ease of maintenance. Rely on our expertise in design to guide you through selecting alternative materials, incorporating lighting, planters, benches, under-deck drainage systems, and more.
03. Construct
Once pre-construction preparations are finished, we’ll establish a construction schedule. Timelines are crucial, and at Whitmer Decks, we’re dedicated to ensuring your deck is completed punctually.To achieve this, we’ll determine:
- The designated area for material delivery and storage
- Site access logistics
- Construction start and stop times
- Utilities that may be impacted
- Weather considerations
- Throughout the construction phase, Whitmer Decks is steadfast in maintaining the work site in pristine condition.
04. Maintain
We offer various processes to minimize maintenance and enhance the durability of your new deck. Composite material, an alternative to wood, demands less upkeep. However, whether wood or composite, all decks benefit from pressure washing to eliminate the layer of winter grime. Additionally, sealing wood decks is crucial for longevity.
Whitmer Decks recommends washing and sealing your new deck. For a wood deck, it’s essential to wait until the pressure-treated chemicals have sufficiently dried from the wood to accept the stain/sealer. You can test this by sprinkling a small amount of water on the deck surface. If the wood readily absorbs the water, it’s ready for the stain/sealer. Drying times vary depending on weather and exposure.