I'm trying to get quotes for some repairs on my deck. It's mostly cosmetic with a few minor structural fixes needed: I want to replace a 10' 6x6 post, swap out 4-5 joists, and re-deck a 10x24 area with composite boards. I've talked to about 8 builders and handymen, but I've only received one quote so far, which was around $7500. Some guys said my project is too small and not worth their time, which is understandable, but it's irritating not to hear back after they've said they'd send me estimates. I'm left wondering if I'm doing something wrong with this process. I'm considering just going with the one guy who did give me a bid, but I'm unsure if that price is reasonable or if I should keep waiting. Any thoughts?
3 Answers
From what you've mentioned, many contractors would rather not take on repairs due to potential warranty headaches. If things go wrong after the work, you might pin the blame on them, and that’s a risk they’d rather avoid. You might have better luck with a handyman, but they're usually booked or might not have the same quality as a general contractor. Just be cautious and ensure whoever you choose has solid reviews!
Yeah, you’re definitely not alone in feeling ghosted. A lot of contractors drop the ball when it comes to follow-ups. Plus, summertime is peak season for them, so you’re competing with a ton of other homeowners wanting repairs. It’s frustrating, but it doesn’t sound like you’re at fault here. If the one bid you got feels right to you, it might be worth just going for it rather than waiting and stressing out.
It sounds like the scope of your repairs is more complex than starting from scratch, which could be why some builders aren't jumping on it. They often prefer new builds instead of salvaging old materials because they can't guarantee the longevity of repairs. But hey, if you're not into DIYing, you might want to stick with that one quote you got and get your deck sorted. Just keep in mind the timing—contractors are super busy in summer, and that could contribute to the silence you're experiencing.