Our Deck Building Process
Get in Touch
The first step is to discuss your project and see if we’re a good fit. You can reach us by:
email: info@1stop-builders.com
phone: 605-206-4900
605.206.4900
or through any contact form on our website.
We will discuss the specifics of your project and go through our design and build process.
Site Visit + Estimate
After the initial conversation, we’ll set up a meeting at your home. During this meeting we will go over:
- Specific household needs – what you plan to do in your space
- Design features – pergola, outdoor kitchen, privacy screen
- Material preferences and associated rough costs
- Possible start date and project timeline
- Building permit – requirement and process
- Budget – must-have vs. wish list items
Within a few days of the meeting, the cost of the design package and an estimated starting range for your project build will be provided by email.
Please remember that this is an estimated base-price range. The final quote will depend heavily on material choices and design complexity.
Initial Design
To provide you with a comprehensive quote we will need to invest a significant amount of time designing and planning your project. Because of the time and effort involved we bill separately for the design phase.
Project planning and design packages start at $1,500 and include:
- Private project webpage hosted by Build Vitruvian.
- Ongoing consultation for the duration of the design process.
- Research of municipal bylaw and Ontario Building Code applicable to the project.
- Detailed survey of the project space, 2D site plan and 3D site model of existing conditions including setbacks.
- Interactive 3D model and computer renderings of the proposed project.
- Detailed materials takeoff and specifications.
- Construction Drawing plan set which can include: Site Plan, Footings, Framing, Decking and Railing, Elevations, Details and Accessory Buildings. BCIN stamped plan sets for permits are available.
Final Design + Quote
After completing the plans, we meet to go over the final design and provide a binding quote for the build. During this meeting, any changes to the design or budget can be addressed. We include one set of revisions to the preliminary design free of charge; further revisions will be charged on a case-by-case basis, depending on the complexity of the change. After the contract signing, all changes will be documented using a change order form and included in the contract.
Build
After the design has been finalized, we will prepare a contract package including: the legal contract, renderings, construction plan set and detailed materials list with specifications. Once the contract has been signed we will begin your project on the agreed-upon date.
Power tools and rain do not mix so project timelines can be affected by inclement weather. If there are rain days during the build, we can make-up missed days on the weekend if it fits with your schedule. We understand you want your space back as quickly as possible and we will do everything we can to achieve that without sacrificing quality.
No idea where to start?
If you’ve never gone through the deck-building process, it can be overwhelming and a bit confusing.
We know that designing and installing a deck is a big investment. We’re here to help you through every step.
Interested in Learning More?
FAQ
Will you build a deck without a design package?
No. All the decks we build start off with a design package. This allows us to create a custom deck that fits your specific needs and makes sure that there are no surprises at the end. What you see in the designs is what we build.
Will you just design (not build) our deck?
Yes! If you are building your own deck or working with another contractor, we’d be happy to provide the designs. We can tailor a package to include conceptual designs, working plans, material takeoff, permit plans and more.
Do you limit design/consult hours?
No. Once you start working with us on a deck design (or build), you have unlimited access. We don’t put a cap on design or consultation hours and always welcome your questions.
How long is the design + build process?
It really depends on the size and complexity of the project. But, we’re always upfront with potential clients about our current project workload and expected start and end dates. If you want to know specifically about your project — just get in touch!