What to expect when installing a deck or screened in porch

Posted July 7, 2019 to Before You Buy: Tips, Advice, Checklists.

Tags: Decks, Screened Porches

The best part of summer is spending time outside on the deck or on a screened porch. It’s also the time that many Durham homeowners decide to add a deck to their homes. Our team at Sierra Structures like to set expectations of what goes into the process of adding a deck.

While the physical construction of the deck or screened porch may only take a few days, there are several other steps included in the process that may prolong the completion of your deck.
 
6 things to expect once you’ve signed your proposal and we have received your deposit are:

1. HOA Approval – If you have a Home Owner’s Association (HOA) in your neighborhood, you will need to submit your project and drawings for approval from the HOA.  HOA approval times can vary, but typically will take between 7 - 30 days – some HOA’s may take longer. The customer is responsible for obtaining HOA approval, however, we will help with questions or additional documentation they may require.
2. Permit - All jurisdictions require a building permit prior to the beginning of construction of your deck.  Your Project Manager will apply for the permit within your jurisdiction. The approval process varies depending in which jurisdiction you reside, but usually takes between 15 and 90 days. The design may be affected based on the jurisdiction.
3. Survey – Most, if not all, jurisdictions require a survey be submitted with the permit application. In many cases if you have an existing survey, that can be used. However, please note, a new survey may be required prior to the final inspection of the project being approved. If there have been any additional changes on the property since the dated survey provided, a new survey may be required. This is an additional expense ranging from $450-$900; the cost varies based on the size of the property, last dated survey on record, etc. Surveys can take from 2 to 8 weeks to get completed, depending on the season.
4. Location of Utilities – Sierra Structures will call NC811 to have your utilities located in the week prior to your installation. To avoid unnecessary delays, please ensure that the locators will have access to the area in the week before your scheduled installation. If your yard has been marked and the marks are removed by rain, mowing, etc. before your installation has begun, please let Sierra Structures know so that your yard can be re-marked.  Please note that we are only able to locate public utility lines.  Irrigation lines and lines running from your house to outbuildings, for example, are your responsibility to locate.
5. Site Readiness – We ask that you please prepare the area for your installation. This includes moving any items (including property, furniture, canopies, toys, obstacles, etc.) that may interfere or obstruct the install. We are not responsible for any items damaged that were not moved prior to the installation. 
6. Delivery Destination – We attempt to deliver the materials for your project the day before your installation. We typically set the materials at the end or to one side of the driveway. We will confirm the destination with you to not obstruct your driveway. 

Our team at Sierra Structures helps guide our clients through the entire process to make it less overwhelming and scary. If you are ready to get started on your deck or screen porch, contact us now.