Deck and fence (Help) - Calgarypuck Forums - The Unofficial Calgary Flames Fan Community

go iggy · 04-12-2009, 08:57 PM

I'm looking for someone to put up a fence and a Deck. I'm gun shy a little since I've been burned before with hiring contractors . Can anyone refer someone or know someone who is a pro and does great work?

thanks

Gozer · 04-13-2009, 08:44 AM

pm sent

Bean · 04-15-2009, 03:03 PM

I didn't think this warranted a new thread however I am looking for a deck builder as well and wanted to see if anybody out there had any good leads for contractors.

Anybody have any good experiences that they can pass along?

Fobulous · 04-15-2009, 03:24 PM

Same goes for me.

Looking to have a pretty basic deck built for my place... 14' x 15.5'.

I got a ridiculous quote from a contractor the other day so contemplating doing it myself unless I can get it done at a reasonable price.

Gozer · 04-15-2009, 03:39 PM

pms sent

GoinAllTheWay · 04-15-2009, 03:42 PM

If it's a simple deck, any desire to build it yourself? Home Depot has a book called deck building 1-2-3, VERY handy resource for those looking to take a stab at building a simple deck. Goes on to cover more complex decks but if you just want a small, square one, they really aren't that difficult to put together.

Save a ton of money too.

Hanna Sniper · 04-15-2009, 04:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoinAllTheWay

If it's a simple deck, any desire to build it yourself? Home Depot has a book called deck building 1-2-3, VERY handy resource for those looking to take a stab at building a simple deck. Goes on to cover more complex decks but if you just want a small, square one, they really aren't that difficult to put together.

Save a ton of money too.

But are those book to code?

My advise for someone looking for a contractor to build a deck/fence. Go to a top notch home builder and find out who they contract for their work, it'll be done to code, most likely get the homebuilders price as well

Bagor · 04-15-2009, 04:34 PM

My advice re: a fence.

Ask the contractor how far he's going to sink the posts.

If he answers <4 feet. Walk away.

GoinAllTheWay · 04-15-2009, 09:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hanna Sniper

But are those book to code?

My advise for someone looking for a contractor to build a deck/fence. Go to a top notch home builder and find out who they contract for their work, it'll be done to code, most likely get the homebuilders price as well

I don't think they would be allowed to sell them if they weren't, would they?

I know they electrical books are built with local codes in mind.

Dan02 · 04-16-2009, 07:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bagor

My advice re: a fence.

Ask the contractor how far he's going to sink the posts.

If he answers <4 feet. Walk away.

I could understand for a deck, but doesn't that seem a little extreme for a fence?

hmmm apparently the frost line is around 4 feet, the more you know.

ken0042 · 04-16-2009, 09:43 AM

Yeah, I've always been told to sink fence posts 3 feet. I know we also put the deck piles 4 feet down, but I didn't think the fence was as critical.

mikey_the_redneck · 04-16-2009, 09:55 AM

Just remember to get a permit, sink your posts 48", and make sure your handrails are 42" high, and you're set.

GoinAllTheWay · 04-16-2009, 09:57 AM

I don't think it has so much to do with weight as it does with the posts shifiting during the thaw, does it? You want to get below the frost line more for the purpose of things staying in position if I understand it correctly.

Papi34 · 04-16-2009, 10:01 AM

Havent you seen the RONA commercials?

Its easy

DESS · 04-16-2009, 10:07 AM

Just don't get chain link. Some people in my 'hood have them and they look terrible in a residential community. Wood or bust.

Stranger · 04-16-2009, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ken0042

Yeah, I've always been told to sink fence posts 3 feet. I know we also put the deck piles 4 feet down, but I didn't think the fence was as critical.

I've always drilled my posts about 3.5 ft or as deep as the bobcat auger could go. After I set the 4x6 post in with concrete they don't go anywhere. I've been asked to do about 8-10 fences over the last 6 years and I check back on them periodically and they still haven't moved.

JohnnyFlame · 04-16-2009, 11:24 AM

I have a brother-in-law who I know does excellent work. He is a draftsman but lost his job recently thanks to the downturn. He is doing a living room at the moment installing a new fireplace, new walls, doors etc. But I sure he can do decks etc. as he has done that in the past. He will be reasonable and will do a very good job.

Fire me a PM if you want his details.

onetwo_threefour · 04-16-2009, 12:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DESS

Just don't get chain link. Some people in my 'hood have them and they look terrible in a residential community. Wood or bust.

Thanks for coming out. Before deciding what kind of fence to build check your title for any restrictive covenants or caveats that dictate what types of fence you are allowed to build. In many places, chain link is mandatory.

Gozer · 04-16-2009, 03:10 PM

Well, I got no responses to my PMs, but I can supply lumber for anyone who needs a deck or fence. PM me.

GoinAllTheWay · 04-16-2009, 03:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gozer

Well, I got no responses to my PMs, but I can supply lumber for anyone who needs a deck or fence. PM me.

Man, wish I knew that last year when I built my deck.

Keep you in mind for the future. Do you only do pressure treated lumber or are you able to sell regular 2x4's as well?