How to Choose a Contractor
When you decide to have a deck built, nothing has a greater impact on how the project turns out than selecting the right contractor. You don't have to be a deck expert to hire the right contractor. All you need to do is ask the right questions. Some questions that may help you make a more informed decision:

• How long have they been in business? Experience matters. As a contractor with 16+ years of deck building experience, I can assure you that our decks are built to a much higher standard now than when we had only been building decks for five or six years. The ideal contractor will have a long history of quality work; but should also be working hard to keep up with the current trends in the ever-changing deck business.
  
  
• What are their areas of expertise? Do they build only decks, or do they build a deck every now and then?
  
  
• How much experience do you have with the material we have selected? Today, many decks are built using the new decking products. Some contractors have little or no experience with these products, and that can lead to problems during installation. It could even mean an improper installation that voids the manufacturer’s warranty.
  
  
• References, references, references! Ask all prospective contractors for references. While you may be able to call some of the references, you should go visit at least one of the references in person. You will be able to see first hand the kind of workmanship you can expect; you also may get additional insight into the detailed workings of your prospective contractor as you visit with past clients.
  
  
• How well do they communicate? Do they return phone calls promptly? If it is difficult to get them to return your phone calls now, it certainly won't get any easier after they have your money. Do they address your concerns and answer your questions? Does the bid you receive contain everything you discussed with the contractor? In addition to making the entire project go smoother, a contractor who communicates well also ensures that there will be no surprises during your deck construction.
  
  
• How thorough is the bid package? A bid should consist of more than just a drawing and a price. A complete bid should tell you everything about your deck. How big is the deck? What materials are used? How will it be attached to your house? What kind of footings support the deck? What kind of screws or nails are used? Exactly what does the rail look like? When will construction begin? Do they provide building permits? What kind of equipment will be on your yard? Where will the materials be placed? Is all trash cleanup included? How long will construction take? Do they have the underground utilities located? Do they provide references? Written warranties? What kind of deposits/payments are required?

Ask questions until you feel completely comfortable. The more information you have, the more accurately you will be able to assess both the deck that will be built and the contractor who will build it.