Have a question?
What is the process?
Following your FREE estimate, a proposal is provided with the design included. Financing is available. (click to that page) The proposal must be signed and submitted with a materials deposit. This will secure a tentative start date.
OE will start the permitting process and provide documentation for HOA approval (if needed) and give you a 1-week notice of the start of the project (closer to your start date). Once the project is complete, we conduct a walkthrough and final payment is due.
Do I need a permit to build a deck?
OE does all permitting, zoning, and building. It depends on your local jurisdiction. In most cases, yes.
Why do you require a full material deposit?
In most cases the materials cost more than the labor. We order the materials at the time you book your project to lock in the price of the materials.
Will you contact my HOA?
OE will provide you with all the documentation required for HOA approval. The homeowner is responsible to gain approval.
Can I make additional requests during the build?
Significant Change Orders may require an additional project based on the scope of the work (adding a roof, another level). However, many times we can integrate additional upgrades, such as lighting, during your initial project.
Will you demo my deck and remove the waste?
Yes, all demo and waste removal is included in the scope of work.
What preparation do I need to make before you start?
Clear deck surface and underneath as much as possible.
Do I need to be home during the project build?
No, we normally do not need access inside your home, though we do need access to power and water.
How do I winterize my deck?
Here are some steps Builddirect.com suggests to take to prolong the life of your deck and reduce the potential for costly repairs come spring:
- Remove dirt and debris. Don’t let piles of dirt & debris clutter up the corners of your deck. They’ll trap moisture in those spots and promote rot. Sweep your deck clean.
- Trim any overhanging branches. If you’re in an area of the country that’s prone to ice, consider trimming branches back before an ice storm can cause them to plummet onto your deck and railings.
- Power wash. Before harsh winter weather, give your deck a power wash to remove any heavy stains or mildew from the fall. No reason to let these nasties sit all winter long. If you have an older wood deck, skip the power wash & use a bleach-free cleaner that will fade stains without yellowing your deck.
- The water test. Does water pool or soak into the planks? If it soaks in over the entire deck, it’s time to re-stain. While you want the deck to repel water, it’s also important to note if the water pools in divots in some of the boards. If this happens, you may want to replace those boards. A plank that pools will continue to hold water and may be more prone to rot than other areas.
- Seal your wood deck. When was the last time you waterproofed or stained your wood deck? Of course, if you have composite or vinyl decking, you can relax and skip this step.
Taking the time to winterize your deck will prolong its life & lower the potential for costly spring repairs. After all, your deck is a part of your home even if you may use it less during the winter season. Taking care of it now will help to make a warmer welcome in the spring.