Choosing the right deck builder is one of the most important steps in your outdoor project. A well-built deck improves your home’s value and creates a space you can enjoy for decades. A poorly built deck leads to headaches, wasted money, and potential safety hazards. Many homeowners make the mistake of trusting a contractor based on price or promises without checking for warning signs. Recognizing red flags early can help you avoid problems before they start.
At Decked Out Builders, we meet homeowners every year who come to us after hiring the wrong contractor. They share stories about incomplete decks, hidden fees, poor craftsmanship, or structures that failed inspection. These issues can be avoided with careful attention and a little preparation.
No Written Contract or Quote
A reputable deck builder always provides a written contract and detailed proposal. The contract should clearly define project size, materials, scope, payment schedule, and warranty coverage.
This is a big red flag if a builder only offers a verbal agreement or a one-page quote with no details. Contractors who don’t keep written records often use that to change prices later or refuse warranty claims.
Decked Out Builders gives a full written proposal for each job. Our quotes include the exact size, material choices, and finishes like picture framing, fascia, and breaker boards. Before work starts, every agreement spells out what is expected.
Vague or Incomplete Material Descriptions
One of the most common signs of an unprofessional builder is vague language like “composite decking” or “metal railing.” Without specific brands, models, or colors, you cannot compare value or quality.
The difference between entry-level composite decking and premium PVC decking can be thousands of dollars. Builders who avoid naming products often plan to use lower-grade materials while charging a higher price.
Unusually Low Pricing
It’s not a good sign if one estimate is a lot lower than all the others. Low prices almost always mean that things are missing, that the materials are of lower quality, or that the work is done faster. Some contractors bid low to get the job, but then they charge more for things that should have been included.
A professional builder gives you a fair and clear price based on the whole project. Decked Out Builders gives you one total price for framing, decking, railing, hardware, permits, and finishing touches. We want to be accurate, not add-ons that come as a surprise.
No Proof of Insurance or Registration
In Illinois, deck builders must be registered as a business and have insurance for workers’ compensation and liability. If builders can’t show you a Certificate of Insurance or proof of registration, they are putting you in danger.
You could be held responsible if someone gets hurt or damages something on your property without insurance.
Decked Out Builders has full insurance and is registered in Illinois. We also keep our registration up to date with every city we work in so that we can legally get permits for your project.
Requests for Large Upfront Payments
If a contractor asks for the full payment before starting work, that’s another big red flag. Deposits that are standard in the industry cover design, permits, and initial materials, but they should never be too high.
Some unreliable builders collect large sums and then delay or disappear. Always ask for a structured payment schedule tied to project milestones.
Decked Out Builders uses a transparent payment system that aligns with progress. You pay as each stage is completed.
No Warranty or Guarantee
A deck is a major investment that should come with protection. If a builder offers no warranty, or only a short one-year coverage, that is a warning sign.
Professional contractors stand behind their craftsmanship. Decked Out Builders provides a 5-Year Craftsmanship Warranty and registers all manufacturer warranties on your behalf. We remain available long after project completion to answer questions or handle maintenance concerns.
No References or Portfolio
A good deck builder should have a record of completed projects. If a contractor cannot provide references, recent photos, or examples of similar builds, that is a serious concern.
Look for high-quality images that show framing details, clean cuts, and balanced design. Beware of contractors who rely on stock photos or images pulled from manufacturers’ websites.
Decked Out Builders maintains a large portfolio of completed projects across McHenry County and the Northwest Suburbs.
Choose a Builder You Can Trust
Avoiding red flags means choosing a contractor who values integrity and precision. The best deck builders operate transparently, document everything, and communicate clearly from start to finish.
When you choose Decked Out Builders, you work with a team that treats every project as a reflection of our reputation. We build with honesty, detail, and pride in every finish from the framing to the warranty.
Start your project confidently today.
Contact Decked Out Builders | 815-900-5199
