So, you're dreaming of a Trex deck. Good choice! Composite decking like Trex is a fantastic option for our Minnesota weather – it holds up great against those harsh winters and humid summers without the constant maintenance of wood. But getting a new deck isn't just about picking out colors; it's a whole project. I've been building decks around Bloomington for years, and I want to give you the straight scoop on what to expect, how to get ready, and what to ask before you commit.
Your Project Timeline: What to Expect
Let's talk timelines, because this is usually the first thing folks want to know. It's not an overnight job, and rushing things can lead to headaches down the road. Here's a realistic breakdown:
- Initial Contact & Consultation (1-2 weeks): You reach out to a builder, we schedule a time to come out, look at your property, and talk about your vision. This is where we get a feel for your space, your needs, and what kind of design you're leaning towards.
- Design & Quote (2-4 weeks): After the initial chat, we'll put together some design options and a detailed quote. This might involve a few back-and-forths to tweak things until it's just right for you.
- Permitting (4-8 weeks, or more): This is often the longest part, and it's mostly out of our hands. Bloomington, like most cities, requires permits for deck construction. We'll handle the paperwork, but the city needs time to review and approve everything. Sometimes, if your property has specific setbacks or unique conditions – maybe you're in an older neighborhood near the Minnesota River bluffs with tricky soil conditions – it can take a bit longer.
- Material Ordering & Delivery (2-4 weeks): Once permits are in hand, we order your Trex materials. Lead times can vary, especially for specific colors or railing styles.
- Construction (1-3 weeks): This is the fun part! Actual build time depends on the size and complexity of your deck. A simple ground-level deck will be quicker than a multi-level structure with custom features.
So, from your first call to enjoying your first barbecue on the new deck, you're usually looking at a 3 to 5-month process. Planning ahead, especially if you want it ready for summer, is key.
Getting Ready: How to Prepare Your Property
Once we're ready to break ground, there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother for everyone:
- Clear the Area: Move any outdoor furniture, planters, grills, or anything else from the proposed deck footprint and a good buffer around it. We need space to work, store materials, and keep things safe.
- Mark Sprinkler Heads & Utilities: If you have an irrigation system, show us where the heads are. Same goes for any buried dog fences or other shallow utilities you know about. We'll call for utility locates (Gopher State One Call), but knowing about your private lines helps prevent accidental damage.
- Pet & Child Safety: During construction, a job site isn't a safe place for kids or pets. Plan for them to be indoors or away from the work area during the day.
- Access: We'll need clear access for our crew and materials. Make sure gates are unlocked and there's a path to the backyard.
What to Ask Before You Sign That Contract
Before you commit to any builder, including Skyline Deck Builders, you need to be asking some pointed questions. Don't be shy; this is a big investment.