Why a Deck and Fence Company Is Worth More Than the DIY Route
This article, drawing from years of industry experience, breaks down the tangible benefits that make hiring an expert the smarter and more valuable choice in the long run.
A professional deck and fence company is worth more than the DIY route because they deliver a level of safety, durability, and long-term value that is nearly impossible for an amateur to replicate. The initial savings of a do-it-yourself project often evaporate in the face of costly mistakes, wasted materials, and the sheer amount of time required. A professional's expertise ensures the project is built to last, complies with all local codes, and ultimately becomes a true asset to the home rather than a potential liability.
The value of a professional deck and fence company lies not just in their labor, but in their deep, specialized knowledge. They are not just builders; they are project managers, design consultants, and risk managers rolled into one. This article, drawing from years of industry experience, breaks down the tangible benefits that make hiring an expert the smarter and more valuable choice in the long run.
The Critical Value of Structural Safety
This is the most important area where a professional's value is undeniable. A deck is a heavy, elevated structure that must be built to safely support people and snow loads. A fence must be able to withstand high winds. The DIY route is fraught with potential for dangerous structural errors.
- Proper Foundations: An expert knows the local frost line and will dig footings and set posts below it in concrete. This prevents the structure from heaving out of the ground during winter, which is the number one cause of leaning fence posts and unstable decks.
- Secure Connections: A professional uses the correct structural hardware, like joist hangers and tension ties, and knows how to properly attach a deck's ledger board to the house. According to the North American Deck and Railing Association, an overwhelming majority of deck collapses are due to the failure of the ledger board connection, a mistake amateurs often make.
- Code Compliance: A professional builds to meet or exceed local building codes for things like railing height and strength. This is not just about avoiding fines; it's about ensuring the safety of your family and guests.
Expertise in Design and Material Selection
A professional company provides design expertise that can transform a basic project into a beautiful and functional outdoor living space. They help homeowners see possibilities they might not have considered, like creating multi-level decks on a sloped yard or incorporating built-in seating.
They also provide invaluable guidance on material selection. They understand the pros and cons of different woods, composites, and vinyls in the context of your specific climate. This expert advice helps you choose a material that will not only look great on day one but will also resist fading, warping, and rot for years to come, saving you a fortune in future replacement costs.
Long-Term Value of Professional Material Choice
| Material | DIY Typical Choice | Professional Recommendation | The Long-Term Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decking | Standard pressure-treated pine to minimize upfront cost. | Higher-end composite or PVC decking. | Eliminates the cost and labor of annual staining and sealing, and lasts 2-3 times longer. |
| Fasteners | Standard deck screws or even nails. | Coated or stainless steel structural screws and hardware. | Prevents rust stains and the premature failure of connections due to corrosion. |
| Fence Posts | Untreated or inadequately treated wood posts. | Properly treated wood posts rated for ground contact or steel posts. | Prevents the posts from rotting out at the base, which would require a full fence replacement. |
The Hidden Costs of the DIY Route
The advertised savings of a DIY project often fail to account for the numerous hidden costs that can quickly add up.
- The Cost of Specialized Tools: Building a deck or fence properly requires tools that most homeowners don't own, such as a power auger, a heavy-duty miter saw, and a laser level. The cost of buying or even renting this equipment can be significant.
- The Cost of Mistakes: A single mis-cut on a long, expensive composite deck board is a costly error. A more serious mistake, like building a deck that doesn't pass a city inspection, could require a partial or even complete teardown. A professional's accuracy and knowledge of codes prevent these expensive errors.
- The Value of Your Time: A project that a professional crew can finish in a few days could take a homeowner every weekend for an entire summer. When you calculate the value of your own time, the DIY route is rarely as cheap as it seems.
Bonus Tip: The "Wasted Material" Factor
Professionals are experts at estimating the exact amount of material needed for a job. A DIYer will often either overbuy, wasting money on unused materials, or underbuy, leading to multiple frustrating trips back to the store.
Efficiency and Project Management
An expert home maintenance service is a model of efficiency. They have a refined process that covers every aspect of the project, from the initial design to the final cleanup. They manage the logistics of ordering materials, scheduling deliveries, arranging for debris removal, and coordinating with building inspectors. This comprehensive project management saves the homeowner from a massive logistical headache and ensures the project is completed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.
The Peace of Mind of Accountability
When you hire a reputable company, you are buying peace of mind. You are protected by their insurance, which covers any accidental damage to your property or injuries to workers. You are also protected by their workmanship warranty. If an issue arises with the installation after the job is complete, they are accountable for coming back to fix it. This long-term accountability is a form of insurance that is completely absent when you take the DIY route.
Things to Consider When Evaluating Your Options
Before you decide between hiring a professional and doing it yourself, honestly evaluate these key points.
- The Scale of the Project: Consider if you're building a small, freestanding platform or a large, elevated deck attached to your house. The latter's complexity and safety requirements strongly favor professional expertise.
- Your True Skill Level: Honestly assess your skill level. Have you successfully managed a structural build before? Online tutorials are not a substitute for the hands-on experience gained from building hundreds of decks and fences.
- Your Tolerance for a Long-Term Project: Evaluate your tolerance for a drawn-out project. Are you prepared for your backyard to be a construction zone for months? A professional crew's efficiency is a significant lifestyle benefit.
- The Importance of Resale Value: Think about resale value. A professionally built deck is a clear asset for a home sale, whereas a poorly constructed DIY deck can become a liability that deters potential buyers.
Questions People Ask About Hiring a Professional vs DIY
What is the single biggest mistake a DIYer can make?
For decks, it's improperly attaching the ledger board to the house. For fences, it's not setting the posts deep enough. Both are fundamental, non-cosmetic errors that compromise the entire structure's safety and longevity.
Can I save money by doing the demolition myself?
Often, yes. Many contractors are open to the homeowner handling the demolition of an old deck or fence to save on labor costs. Discuss this with them upfront.
Are professional companies more expensive for materials?
No, it's usually the opposite. Contractors have established relationships with suppliers and often get a trade discount that is better than the retail price a homeowner would pay.
My friend is a handyman. Can he build my deck?
A handyman is great for small repairs, but a deck is a structural project that often requires specific permits and inspections. A specialized deck and fence company has the specific knowledge and credentials to handle this type of work correctly and legally.
How do I know if a company is truly a professional?
Look for a company that is fully licensed and insured, provides a detailed written contract, has a portfolio of high-quality work, and can give you references from recent clients. A true professional will be transparent about all of these things.
A Superior Investment in Your Home
While the satisfaction of a DIY project can be appealing, the value proposition of a professional deck and fence company is undeniable for any significant build. They provide a safer, more durable, and more beautiful final product in a fraction of the time and with none of the stress. It is an investment that pays for itself through the avoidance of costly mistakes and the creation of a lasting asset that enhances your home and your quality of life.
Finding a Professional Partner for Your Project
When homeowners conclude that a project's real value is in its quality and durability, finding the right professional partner becomes the priority. JPM Home Services specializes in creating high-quality, custom decks and fences, providing the expert guidance and skilled craftsmanship that the DIY route can't match. Their team is dedicated to building structures that are both beautiful and built to last. To schedule a consultation, you can reach them at jpmhomeservices@yahoo.com or by phone at (302) 598-6297.
Reviewer: Chloe Martinez brings 8 years of experience in home improvement. Feedback from Chloe helped shape this post to better support companies working to strengthen their reputation and expand their reach.