Step by step
What happens after you reach out, start to finish
A new deck or fence is a big decision. Here's exactly what happens after you reach out, what the free estimate includes, and what we'll need from you as we go.
Step by step
Six steps, no surprises
First conversation
Send us the estimate form. We'll ask what you're hoping to build, roughly where, and who uses the yard. Describing the space in a few words is a big help.
Site visit
We come out, measure, and look at slope, soil, drainage, trees, access for materials, and where the property line and utilities might be. You tell us what matters most.
Written estimate
You get a written estimate describing materials, layout and scope in plain language. If you're choosing between options, like composite versus cedar, we lay them side by side.
Permits and paperwork
If your project needs a permit, we'll help you work out what's required and handle the application with you.
Scheduling and the build
We agree on a start date, order materials and let you know what to expect each day. We keep the site tidy as we go.
Final walk-through
We walk the finished project with you, test gates and latches, and go over simple care tips for your materials.
The free estimate
What your estimate visit includes
Measuring
Dimensions, heights, slopes and door thresholds, so the plan fits the real site.
Listening
How you'll use the space, who needs to stay in, what you want to hide or show off.
Material options
A practical look at composite, PVC, cedar, treated lumber or metal for your project.
Permits
Do you need a permit?
Sometimes. Whether a deck or fence needs a permit depends on things like its size, height, where it sits on the lot and whether it's attached to the house. Rules differ between the City of Seattle, where permits go through the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI), and other parts of King County.
We'll help you check the rules for your address, prepare what's needed, and plan the schedule around any review time. If you have an HOA, check their guidelines too; they sometimes have their own design rules.
Scheduling and weather
Decks and fences can go in any time of year here, but rain does shape the calendar. Some steps, like pouring footings or applying finishes, wait for a dry window. If weather pushes a day, we'll tell you as soon as we know. Spring and summer book up quickly, so reaching out early helps.
What we'll need from you
- Access to the yard, plus a spot for materials to be dropped off.
- A plan for pets and kids during work hours.
- Moving patio furniture, planters and anything fragile away from the work area.
- Any survey, property plat or HOA rules you already have.
- A heads-up to your neighbors, especially for fence work along a shared line.
Start with step one
Send us a note through the contact form. The first conversation and the site visit are free.