ARCHADECK OF AKRON ANSWERS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Whether you’re starting to plan your outdoor living space or have done your research and are ready to hire a builder, it’s likely you have questions. At Archadeck of Akron, we want to provide as much information as you need, when you need it. You’ll find our blog is an excellent resource for Akron-area homeowners planning outdoor living projects. We publish blog posts featuring photos and descriptions of projects we think you’ll find interesting. We also write posts to share information about the way we work with clients – how we stand out from the crowd. Our responsive customer service and high-quality workmanship are just two of the qualities that set Archadeck of Akron apart from other companies.

If you have questions that you don’t see answered here, please give us a call. In addition to answering your questions, we would love to set up a complimentary design consultation to talk about the projects you have in mind.

FAQ: How far in advance should I plan my outdoor living project?

At Archadeck of Akron, we strongly believe the customers who plan in advance have the best experience with the least stress. Everyone is slightly different in their approach, we know. We have worked with customers who have been thinking and dreaming about their projects for years. We suggest calling Archadeck a minimum of 4 to 6 months in advance of when you want your project completed. This will give us ample time to meet with you and understand your project goals. Once we put together a design and proposal, we will need to meet with you again and go over it together. When you sign a contract, we will then have Archadeck’s professional draftsmen prepare the structural drawings. We also require time to obtain all the necessary approvals and permits, order your materials, and build your project.

Learn more about planning ahead for your outdoor living project:

• The Value of Planning Your Deck or Porch Ahead of Time
• Timing is Important in Planning Your Akron, OH, Outdoor Living Space Project

FAQ: Does Archadeck do repairs, stain decks, or build stairs?

Archadeck is not set up to handle repair jobs in the way that a handyman service would be. Our current minimum project size is $8,000. We do not offer any staining on the new decks we build or on existing decks. In regard to building stairs, we design and build stairs with many of our projects; however, we do not do stair-only projects. If you only need someone to build a set of steps, a small carpentry service company would be best suited for that type of work. You may also find that a handyman service can build the deck, porch, or patio steps you need.

Learn more about the work for which Archadeck is known:

• What We Build
• You Can Feel Confident When You Choose Archadeck of Akron as Your Outdoor Living Space Builder!

FAQ: Do you give estimates? Can you give us a cost per square foot for the deck we want to build?

We believe in giving a firm quote instead of an estimate. The information we gather when we meet to talk about your project helps us build a quote. We may need to refine the design, but when you are making a decision about working with us, we will give you an actual quote. The price will not change unless you request changes to the contract. We do not break our projects down into cost per square foot. There are too many factors that can affect the cost beyond just the square footage of the project. Every project we design is unique so there is no “set price” for a deck, for example.

FAQ: Are certain times of the year busiest for Archadeck?

We build outdoor living projects throughout the year, but some seasons are busier for us than others.

Spring and summer are our busy seasons, followed by fall.

FAQ: Do I need to sign a contract in order for you to build a project at my home?

All Archadeck projects start with a signed contract. We lay out in writing exactly what we are going to build, including materials and specs. The contract helps prevent misunderstandings between builder and client.

FAQ: Once we sign a contract, can you start right away? How long will it take you to build our project?

To some extent, this will depend on the time of year. First, weather can affect our work schedules. Second, during our busiest times of year, spring and summer, projects can take longer than they would in winter or fall. That’s why we recommend you give us plenty of lead time by contacting us at least 4-6 months prior to when you want your project completed. Other factors include potential material shortages or back orders, how complex your project is, and how large it will be. When we schedule your project, we’ll share our construction schedule with you, and we’ll keep you updated if we anticipate delays.

FAQ: What types of structures does Archadeck of Akron build?

At Archadeck of Akron, we specialize in all things outdoor living. While we’re well-known for building decks and porches, many homeowners don’t realize we also design and build sunrooms, three-season rooms and pergolas. We also design and build patios and related hardscapes including outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces and fire pits. For inspiration, see our Photo and Video Galleries.

FAQ: Do you still build decks with wood?

Yes! Many of our clients prefer the look and feel of a traditional wood deck. When building with wood, we offer several types including pressure-treated pine, as well as cedar and “exotic” hardwoods. We also build low-maintenance decks with composite and synthetic decking. Manufacturers of these wood alternatives are always improving their products, and the manufacturers’ warranties are extensive.

FAQ: I’ve heard the chemicals in pressure-treated wood can be dangerous. Is that true?

The treatments applied to pressure-treated wood help minimize termite damage and help protect against moisture damage, too. When we build with pressure-treated wood, we use only products approved by the EPA as safe for residential use. The treatments that were dangerous have been phased out and are no longer on the market.

FAQ: Do you have different types of screens for screened porches?

We always make sure to match a screen type with the client’s needs. Do you want to block UV rays, filter out the glare of direct sunlight or keep out the smallest insects? If so, we will use the screens that are best for your purpose. Homeowners with rambunctious children or pets may need stronger screens on their screened porch. Please let us know your concerns about screens because there are several types available.

FAQ: Where are you located?

We work throughout the Akron area, and we come to your location to meet with you. You can see the list of our service areas on our website. If you don’t see your city or town listed here, please call to inquire.

FAQ: What kind of insurance do you carry?

Archadeck of Akron carries general liability insurance up to one million dollars. We also carry worker’s compensation insurance to protect our clients should anyone on our crew become injured while working at your home.

FAQ: How will we know if we have to get a building permit for our project?

Archadeck takes care of obtaining all building permits when they are required. We have relationships with the local building departments throughout our area and we are accustomed to working with them. Obtaining required permits is one of Archadeck’s professional services. We would never leave you with an un-permitted structure where a permit is required.

FAQ: Is Archadeck’s work guaranteed? Do you have warranties?

Yes, and this is a significant benefit of working with Archadeck of Akron. All Archadeck locations offer two different warranties. There is a 1-year warranty on workmanship and materials, and a 5-year warranty covering structural defects. Your project will also be protected by manufacturers’ warranties. You can be sure we will follow all manufacturers’ guidelines for installation of their products, being careful not to void their warranties with installation errors. Finally, Archadeck offers a completion guarantee you will not find anywhere else. If for any reason Archadeck of Akron was unable to complete your project, another Archadeck location would come in and complete it according to the specifications in your contract.

FAQ: Are your decks and porches pre-designed? May I purchase one of your designs if I want to build the deck on my own?

Everything we build is custom designed. First, we meet with a potential client to talk about what kind of outdoor living project they are interested in adding to their home. We design the project they want based on their needs and preferences. Because no two homes are alike, and no two clients are alike, all of our projects are unique. We do not make our custom designs available for sale.

FAQ: Does Archadeck build above ground pool decks?

We do build above ground pool decks; however, it is not a common project for us. We find that sometimes customers budget well for an above ground pool, equipment, and installation but fail to plan ahead for the pool deck they want.

FAQ: Does Archadeck offer financing?

Yes, we have two popular financing plans. One is “12 months, zero interest, zero payments.” The other is a low monthly payment plan. We can give you the contact information for our finance partner. We even have a link on our website where you can start the application process. Archadeck does not pre-qualify customers or approve financing directly. Another option that can make your project more affordable is our phased building program. We can talk about splitting your project into two or more phases to spread out the work and the costs over time. This approach works best when your project includes more than one component. We call these projects combination outdoor living spaces. Examples would be a deck and screened porch combination, a 3-season room and adjoining patio, or a covered porch with outdoor kitchen or outdoor fireplace.

Learn more about financing your project:

• Archadeck of Akron Explores the Importance of Establishing and Sharing Your Budget
• With Financing, Stop Postponing the Deck, Porch or Patio You Want

Learn more about our phased building program:

• The Backyard You Want Is Within Reach With Our Phased Building Program!

Be sure to browse the photo and video galleries on our website.

Let Archadeck of Akron help you plan the outdoor living structures you have been thinking about. We can schedule a “virtual design consultation” using video-conferencing technology. Contact Archadeck of Akron to get started.