The Minneapolis winter can completely destroy a brand-new wooden deck in just a couple of seasons. Elite Deck Solutions sees it all the time around Linden Hills and South Minneapolis. The brutal freeze-thaw cycle wreaks havoc on natural timber, which is why more homeowners are making the switch to composite materials like Trex. Installing a composite deck is not something you do on a Saturday. It takes planning, permitting, and a clear timeline so you are not left staring at a pile of boards in your backyard while the snow starts flying again.
Here is what the actual process looks like from the day you sign the contract to the final board being swept off.
The Timeline: How Long Does This Actually Take?
People always ask Elite Deck Solutions how fast we can knock out a build. The truth is, the actual construction phase usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks depending on the size and complexity of the layout. You also have to factor in the backend work before a single post hole gets dug.
- Design and material selection: 1 to 2 weeks of figuring out colors, railings, and permits.
- Permit approval: Minneapolis building departments can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks depending on how busy they are.
- Site prep and framing: 2 to 3 days.
- Decking and railing installation: 3 to 5 days.
If you want to use your new setup by mid-summer, you need to start calling contractors back in January or February. Waiting until May means you are already at the back of the line.
What to Expect While We Are Working in Your Yard
Construction is messy. When our team from Elite Deck Solutions shows up at your house, your backyard is going to look like a job site for a little while. We will have piles of lumber, bags of concrete for those deep frost footings we need up here in Minnesota, and saws running.
You can expect some noise early in the mornings. You will not need to take off work, but you should move your car out of the driveway so our material deliveries and trailer can fit. We keep things tidy, and we magnetic-sweep for stray screws every single afternoon so your kids or dogs do not step on anything sharp.
How to Prep Your Property Before We Arrive
Homeowner prep goes a long way in keeping Deck Construction on schedule. First, clear out any patio furniture, potted plants, or old grills from the existing deck area. If you have a dog, make sure you have a plan for keeping them inside while gates are open and workers are walking back and forth through the yard.
You should also talk to your neighbors. If our trucks need to block part of the alley or park tight against your driveway in neighborhoods like Tangletown, a quick heads-up to the neighbors prevents issues.
Important Questions to Ask Before Signing That Contract
Never sign a contract with a builder until you get clear, straight answers to a few specific questions:
- Are you pulling the permits, or am I dealing with the city inspector? (It should always be the builder).
- What exact warranty do you offer on your labor, separate from the 25-year Trex manufacturer fade and stain warranty?
- How do you handle unexpected issues, like running into rotten ledger boards or buried concrete from an old deck?
- Can I see proof of general liability and worker's comp insurance sent directly from your insurance agency?
For homes and businesses in Minneapolis, Elite Deck Solutions provides Deck Construction services.