Dilemma. Need your advice!
 

so I'm getting a deck built. I've narrowed it down to 2 contractors

1. Guy is a carpenter by trade and has a lot of experience. He does very nice work but more expensive. I know his quality of work would be amazing.

2. Guy is a paramedic but wanting to start a deck building business. Doesn't have a huge portfolio yet but is working towards it. Willing to work closer to our budget. He would be about $800 cheaper or more.

I can do it for you


Yes I'll give you the rice noodle😘

How much experience does #2 have?

he's done some decks and is in the process of building a website. haven't seen many pics though. he really wants my business probably to get more pictures

#1 guy I've seen his work on Facebook and they look very good

Don't look at the initial price tag, but rather the cost per year for the number of years that it will be in use. Have you considered the quality of wood, type of finish, screws v. nails, etc that each contractor says that he will use? It may be that the more experienced carpenter is more expensive partly because he is using better materials. If the more expensive deck lasts much longer, then the per year cost is actually lower.

What sort of warranties are they offering?

One other thing to consider: How long do you plan to remain in this house? If you are moving in less than five years, say, then the initial cost becomes more important. If longer than that, then the warranty and the long-term durability increase in importance.

Use somelicensed? I have seen so many issues arise and going after someone licensed is usually easier if they try to screw you

I understand that's he's starting up his business. I gave those guys chances in the past because I was once in their shoes. It's really hard to start up and prove yourself when you're an entrepreneur.

BUT

Do it right the first time. I've had instances where I've used both #1 and #2. #2 ended up costing me much more in the end and I haven't gone back to #2. Make sure they are fully licensed and insured! Good luck!

I work as an electrician and from my personal experiences when starting out, if I were you I would go with number #1. Youth and enthusiasm is no match for age and experience. I made a lot of mistakes business wise starting out because I "thought" I had things covered with labour, material and permits. I have also had experienced expensive contractors do work at my own home and they weren't living up to their price or their experience. In the end it's a bit of a crap shoot.

thanks everyone. looks like #1 is the route I'll be going with.