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Prime Buyers Guide Deck Contractors

How to Find the Best Deck Contractor in Marin County CA

Deck contractors in Marin County are licensed to construct and repair all types of decks, patios, railings, retaining walls and many other outdoor structures. If you need good deck contractors in Marin County who can build new custom decks in Novato, Sausalito and San Rafael, you're in the right place. In addition to building new decks, many deck companies offer deck refinishing services and deck restoration in Marin County, which makes old decks look new and may include deck repairs. The articles below cover everything you need to know to hire the best deck companies in Marin County.

Updated December 4, 2009

Top 10 Deck Contractors in Marin County

A-1 Construction
Send an email to this Company
(415) 516-8252
213 El Prado Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94903
State Contractor's License #504375
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Better Business Bureau NADRA (North American Deck & Railing Association)

Services: deck contractors for all new decks, deck installations, deck design needs
Key Brands: Trex, EverGrain, TimberTech, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Lumber, Brazilian Ipe ...

Pacific Circle, Inc.
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(415) 485-6950
125 Larkspur Street, Suite 129
San Rafael, CA 94901
License #814762
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified

Areas Served: Marin County incl. Mill Valley, San Rafael CA, Tiburon, Sausalito CA, Belvedere, ...
Services: custom deck builders for all new decks, deck construction, deck design & building
Key Brands: Trex, Timbertech, Evergrain, CableRail

Clough Construction
Send an email to this Company
(415) 444-5554
117 Mitchell Blvd # A
San Rafael, CA 94903
Contractor's License #516987
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified Marin Builders Association

Areas Served: Marin County incl. San Rafael CA, Sausalito CA, Novato CA, Kentfield, Greenbrae, ...
Services: deck contractors & deck builders for all new decks, custom decks, redwood decks and more
Key Brands: Trex, TimberTech, StoneDeck, EverGrain, CableRail, Fortress Fencing

Wine Country Builders, Inc. (Cam Fraser Construction Inc.)
Send an email to this Company
(707) 935-7474, Cell: (707)337-4022
PO Box 285
Sonoma, CA 95476
Contractors License #763980
   Prime Buyer's Certified Marin Builders Association NARI (National Association of The Remodeling Industry)

Areas Served: Marin incl. San Rafael CA, Sausalito CA, Mill Valley CA, Novato CA, Tiburon CA
Services: deck builders, new decks, deck design & new deck construction
Key Brands: Marvin Windows, Blum hardware

Creative Environments
Send an email to this Company
(707) 827-7980
1550 Gravenstein Hwy S
Sebastopol, CA 95472
State Contractor's License #638571
   Prime Buyer's Certified CLCA (California Landscape Contractors Association)

Areas Served: Marin County incl. San Rafael CA, Sausalito CA, Novato CA, Kentfield, Greenbrae, ...
Services: deck builders & deck designers for new decks, custom decks
Key Brands: Products from local companies including: Wheeler Zamaroni, Wyatt Irrigation, ...

Reilly Designs
Send an email to this Company
(415) 497-2514
3095 Kerner Blvd, Ste Y
San Rafael, CA 94901
State Contractor's License #873829
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified  Better Business Bureau

Areas Served: Marin County incl. San Rafael CA, Sausalito CA, Novato CA, Kentfield, Greenbrae, ...
Services: deck design, deck building

Jasmin Landscape Design Build
Send an email to this Company
(415) 382-0385
15 Pamaron Way
Novato, CA 94949
State Contractor's License #611588
   Prime Buyer's Certified CLCA (California Landscape Contractors Association)

Areas Served: Marin County incl. Novato CA, San Rafael CA, Sausalito CA, Kentfield, Greenbrae, ...
Services: deck builders, custom decks

Updated August 16, 2010

How to Find the Best Deck Contractor in Marin County CA 

With nice weather comes the drive to move things outdoors. But who wants to spend time reclined in the wet grass, dodging anthills and sinkholes, when you can comfortably lounge on a clean, level decorative patio or deck? Adding a new deck can beautify your yard, increase the resale value of your home, and make it more livable. Although there's the option of undertaking this kind of deck building project yourself, it's difficult work. With short-sighted planning or inadequate materials, you could cause your home to lose value.

That's why it's advisable to choose good deck contractors or deck builders in Marin County. The Prime Buyer's Report has collected the following information to help you find the best deck contractors in Novato, Sausalito and San Rafael.

Marin County Deck Contractors Perform Numerous Services
If you want your new deck built well, professional decking contractors are essential. General contractors dabble in nearly every sub-category of construction, but specialized deck builders have a more refined skill set. Marin County deck contractors specialize in lumber or composite material construction, such as custom decks, stairs, porches, screen porches, railings, docks, and even gazebos. Aside from basic assembly, deck contractors can sand, seal, stain, paint and waterproof new decks.

Many of them also perform deck refinishing in Marin County which is deck restoration and deck repair to make old decks look like new. They are capable of stain and mildew removal, pressure washing, high heat cleaning, dry rot removal, nail setting, deck wood brightening and the application of new protective coatings. As specialists, deck contractors in Marin County have a more refined understanding of the design and materials involved in deck building, so they are more likely to offer sound design advice and conduct a successful installation of new outdoor decks.


Deck Contractors in Marin County Use Many Popular Decking Materials
Decking contractors in Marin County work with a variety of high quality lumber to build your deck, gazebo or porch to your exact specifications. They can offer pressure-treated wood, Brazilian teak, Brazilian cherry, redwood, mahogany, Western red cedar, Southern yellow pine, Siberian Larch, treated fir and treated pine. Deck contractors may also be able to obtain more exotic materials, such as cumaru, ipe, jarrah, jatoba, purple heart, haiari, janka, cambera, goiabao, macaranduba, tauari, marupa and mangaris.

And with the fairly recent wave of synthetic decking materials, good new deck construction contractors can even build with a number of composite or artificial decking products, including plastic and wood mixes, fiberglass, modular tiles, solid composite, hollow composite, recycled wool fibers and polyethylene, Trex or Biodac. Certain deck contractors may also be willing to build new decks with vinyl, virgin vinyl, laminated vinyl membrane, or aluminum.

There are Many Good Deck Contractors in Marin County
Not having ever dealt with deck contractors or patio builders before, it can be hard for the uninitiated to distinguish between the good and the bad. So The Prime Buyer's Report lists these deck contractors in Marin County: A-1 Construction, Pacific Circle, Inc., Clough Construction, Wine Country Builders, Inc. (Cam Fraser Construction Inc.), Creative Environments, Reilly Designs, Jasmin Landscape Design Build, Arrow Deck & Construction, D L N. Other deck contractors that might still serve Marin County include: Atlas Construction, Golden Gate Landscape Co, Architectural Coatings, Shanahan Ray Landscape Contractor, Mellion Dan Levine General Contractor, Hadley & Ireland-Robinson Inc, All Decked Out. Didn't find what you wanted with the TOP 10 Deck Contractors in Marin County? Then click here to see additional companies in this category.

Research the Deck Builders in Marin County
When considering any deck contractors or patio builders, you should always check their credentials. New deck builders may seem good enough, but they might be inadequately qualified or not the best fit for your specific project. Research these details at industry associations and related resources in print or online. The Prime Buyer's Report has identified a number of these resources, which are listed in the article, "Key Resources for Decking in Marin County."

Updated December 4, 2009
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How to Locate the Best Deck Contractors in Marin County 

Step 1: Describe Work to the Deck Contractors or Patio Builders in Marin County
Before you make any appointments, explore all of your options, including decking materials and layouts. There's a huge variety of composite and natural materials and just as many designs, from octagon decks to wrap-around porches. Consider special features as well, like planter boxes or built-in benches. Get at least a general idea of what you want so you can explain what type of deck work is involved to your potential outdoor deck contractors. Write detailed notes on your plans. Be sure to present your preferences consistently so each deck contractor or patio builder will have an equal opportunity to bid for the same work.

Step 2: Ask Questions of the Deck Builders & Take Notes
Research the characteristics of the deck building contractors and their benefits to you. Ask questions to gauge their ability and level of experience. Try and determine whether or not their scope of knowledge is sufficient to accommodate all of your specifications. The questions below can help you fill in some of these blanks.

• How long have the deck builders been licensed contractors? What kind of licenses do the new deck builders hold?

• How many new decking jobs have the deck construction companies completed in Marin County?

• Can the deck construction companies aid in the deck design or patio design?

• Will the deck construction companies check all applicable zoning ordinances?

• Do the deck builders have experience with the type of decks, arbors, pergolas or patios you've described? Can the deck builders provide references?

• How long will it take the deck designers and deck builders to bid and complete the work?

• Do the deck companies carry workers' compensation and liability insurance on their deck builders?

• Will the deck builders provide written estimate?

• Will permits be needed? If so, who will be responsible for getting them?

• Do the deck builders do the work themselves or do they hire subcontractors for deck construction?

• How and when do the deck builders clean up?

• What kind of warranty do the home decks builders offer and what does it cover?

• How do the deck installation contractors determine pricing?

• Will the custom decks contractors provide a written contract?

Step 3: Make a Preliminary Decision on Deck & Patio Builders
After you've interviewed several deck contractors and asked them these important questions, decide who most closely matched your criteria. If a particular deck builder stands out, can you imagine yourself working with him? Are you ready to commit to a project contract?

Step 4: Final Research on Deck Builders in Marin County
At this point, you may have already decided who the best candidate is for your deck building plans. But before you sign any contracts, do some final research. What credentials do the deck contractors have? At the very least, verify contractor licensing, insurance coverage, and quality endorsements such as Diamond Certification and membership or honors with the Better Business Bureau.

Step 5: Make the Final Decision on the Best Deck Builder For You
If every requirement is met, including licensure, you may now confidently enter a contract with the chosen deck builder and begin the custom deck installation. Ask for your deck building company representative to provide a written pricing, timing, quality and warranty agreement.
Updated November 28, 2008
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Tips About Deck Companies in Marin County 

Take Time Choosing Between Deck Builders in Marin County.
Don't be too hasty when choosing deck builders and patio contractors. If you take a little time before starting a decking project to properly outline the job and test the waters with several different deck construction professionals, you're more likely to make informed decisions about your best plan of action.

Consider the Consequences When Hiring New Deck Contractors.
Before you start looking for new deck building contractors, investigate the surrounding circumstances of your new deck. Based on the location, will the new deck or patio inhibit or add to your privacy? Does the new deck, pergola, railings or gazebo defy any zoning ordinances? Will the new deck construction have to compensate for sloping? Will your new deck interfere with your neighbor's view?

Write a Description of the Deck Building Job.
You can't get a useful deck construction consultation without a general plan to propose. So write down the  new deck building specifications you've come up with, as well as the important information you researched from the paragraph above. If all of the deck builders see this description, they each have a fair shot at formulating an informed estimate for your new deck construction.

Get Several Different Estimates From Deck Builders in Marin County.
You can get a realistic price range if you talk to several decking contractors about your plan. They'll each have their bells and whistles to offer, but try to get an idea of basic estimates from a multitude of different deck plan contractors. What you pay is important, so find out what you can realistically expect.

Get Everything in Writing from Good Deck Construction Companies.
When dealing with patio builders and porch contractors, you can never be too thorough. Make sure your preferred decking contractors note every phase of the estimate and build, including a description of the deck construction work, the pricing and the proposed time frame for the new deck, porch or patio completion.

Check the Deck Construction Contractors' Credentials.
Before you commit to a decking job (or any contracting job for that matter), be sure to check the decking companies licensing, workers' compensation and liability insurances, as well as any other relevant credentials.

Choose Certified Companies for Porch, Patio, Pergola, Gazebo or Deck Construction.
Some deck contractors have been recognized by consumers and colleagues for their outstanding service. In Marin County, deck builders that have earned Diamond Certification or have been featured positively in industry publications are more likely to perform the quality of decking or outdoor porch and patio work you desire.

Stick Around During Construction on Your New Deck, Patio or Porch.
The best way to avoid unwanted surprises is to stay in the loop with your decking builder. Stay in contact with your deck contractor and his team and be available for any questions. You can all avoid conflict and confusion if everyone stays current on the progress of the deck construction project.

Agree in Advance to Check Your New Deck Before You Pay.
There's a reason you signed a detailed agreement before commencement of the deck construction or patio replacement project. You can now reference it to make sure everything meets your expectations. If not, it will soon be too late to bring it up. If you are unfortunate enough to have a genuine conflict with your contractor, complaints are registered at www.cslb.ca.gov/consumers/infocomplaint.asp.

Know Your Rights When it Comes to Deck and Patio Contractors.
Consumers are protected from unfair deck contracting practices. These established laws vary by location, so the details that apply to you can be found at the Web site for the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
Updated June 30, 2010
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Deck Contractors in Marin County Work With the Best Decking Brands 

Trex, Evergrain, JER Envirotech, EON, Veranda, EZ Deck, Pultonix, Infinity, LP Weatherbest, Deckmaster Fasteners, GeoDeck, EverNew, Oasis Decking, Timbertech, Eco Decking Tiles, Certainteed, Choicedek, Nexwood, Epoch composite material decking, and Vixen Hill products.

 

Updated June 30, 2010
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Resources About New Deck Builders in Marin County 

Associations & Licensing for Deck Builders and Deck Contractors in Marin County 
AITC American Institute of Timber Construction (http://www.aitc-glulam.org/)
APA EWA American Engineered Wood Association (http://www.apawood.org/)
AWC American Wood Council (http://www.awc.org/)
BBB Better Business Bureau (http://www.bbb.com/)
CRA California Redwood Association (http://www.calredwood.org/)
CSLB Contractor State License Board (http://www.cslb.ca.gov/)
DCA California Department of Consumer Affairs (www.dca.ca.gov)
Diamond Certified (http://www.diamondcertified.org/)
DIA Deck Industry Association (http://www.deckindustry.org/)
HPBA Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (http://www.hpba.org/)
NADRA North American Deck and Railing Association (http://www.nadra.org/)
NAHB National Association of Home Builders (http://www.nahb.org/)
NCBE North Coast Builders Exchange (http://www.ncbeonline.com/)
WRCLA Western Red Cedar Lumber Association (http://www.wrcla.org/)
WWPA Western Wood Products Association (http://www.wwpa.org/)

Deck Building Media & Web Resources
Backyard Living Magazine
Deck Contractor Magazine
Deck Enquirer
Deckscapes Magazine
Fine Homebuilding
Family Handyman
Garden, Deck, and Landscape Magazine
Pool and Spa Living
Professional Deck Builder Magazine
Residential Contractor Magazine

http://www.bestdecksite.com/
http://www.deckcare.org/
http://www.decksusa.com/
http://www.gardenweb.com/
http://www.homedecks.com/
http://www.houserepairtalk.com/
http://www.vadeck.com/
http://www.woodweb.com/

Deck construction can be a daunting task, but The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the top 10 deck contractors and new deck builders in Marin County within the following zip codes:

94901, 94903, 94904, 94912, 94913, 94914, 94915, 94920, 94924, 94925, 94929, 94930, 94933, 94937, 94938, 94939, 94940, 94941, 94942, 94945, 94946, 94947, 94948, 94949, 94950, 94956, 94957, 94960, 94963, 94964, 94965, 94966, 94970, 94971, 94973, 94974, 94976, 94977, 94978 and 94979


Decks Corte Madera CA

Clearview Deck Corte Madera CA 94925


Decks Novato CA

All Decked Out Novato CA 94947
Deck Doctor Novato CA 94947
Decks By Woodmasters Novato CA 94948

 

Decks San Rafael CA

Clough Construction San Rafael CA 94903
HouseSavers / DeckMasters San Rafael CA 94901
Pacific Circle, Inc. San Rafael CA 94901

 

 

 

Deck Contractors San Rafael Area

County

City-Area

City

Deck Builders Found

Marin

San Rafael

Bolinas CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Fairfax CA

2

Marin

San Rafael

Forest Knolls CA

1

Marin

San Rafael

Greenbrae CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Kent Woodlands CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Kentfield CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Lagunitas CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Lucas Valley CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Marinwood CA

* see San Rafael CA

Marin

San Rafael

Mission Rafael CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Nicasio CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Ross CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

San Anselmo CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

San Geronimo CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

San Rafael CA

6

Marin

San Rafael

Santa Venetia CA

* see San Rafael CA

Marin

San Rafael

Sleepy Hollow CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Stinson Beach CA

0

Marin

San Rafael

Terra Linda CA

* see San Rafael CA

Marin

San Rafael

Woodacre CA

0

 

 

Deck Contractors Sausalito Area

County

City-Area

City

Deck Builders Found

Marin

Sausalito

Almonte CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Belvedere CA

* see Belvedere Tiburon CA

Marin

Sausalito

Belvedere Tiburon CA

1

Marin

Sausalito

Corte Madera CA

2

Marin

Sausalito

Larkspur CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Marin City CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Marshall CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Mill Valley CA

2

Marin

Sausalito

Muir Beach CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Muir Woods CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

San Quentin CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Sausalito CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Strawberry CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Tamalpais Valley CA

0

Marin

Sausalito

Tiburon CA

* see Belvedere Tiburon CA

 

 

Deck Contractors Novato Area

County

City-Area

City

Deck Builders Found

Marin

Novato

Bel Marin Keyes CA

0

Marin

Novato

Black Point CA

0

Marin

Novato

Dillon Beach CA

0

Marin

Novato

Dogtown CA

0

Marin

Novato

Ignacio CA

0

Marin

Novato

Inverness CA

0

Marin

Novato

Novato CA

3

Marin

Novato

Olema CA

0

Marin

Novato

Point Reyes Station CA

0

Marin

Novato

San Marin CA

0

Marin

Novato

Tamal CA

0

Marin

Novato

Tomales CA

0

Updated June 30, 2010
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Diamond Certified