FAQs

Why choose Alki Builders?

  • We're Human and Professional

  • Quality Materials

  • Customer Service

  • Aesthetics and Longevity

Why do you charge for estimates?

  • We charge a very modest $60 for estimates because we get more requests than we have time for.

  • Charging for estimates allows us to give more time and attention to clients that are serious.

  • We also refund the $60 if you go with us.

What about the payment?

  • We ask for a scheduling 10% deposit and 40% materials deposit.

  • Our preferred method of payment is a check.

  • But we also can accept credit cards, or ACH transfers.

How much does a deck cost?

  • Our average project is 30-60K, some decks are more some are less.

What is the best way to save money when building a deck?

  • The biggest swing factors are the size of the deck, the railing style and the surface materials.

What are the best materials to use in Seattle?

  • We build our decks with Azek Vintage because it has the highest fade, scratch, and stain resistance. It also has a 50 year warranty and a solid supply chain.

  • Deckorators Voyage is a close second. It is a mineral based board that won’t expand and contract with the temperature. However, the Seattle supply chain isn’t quite there yet.

Do you build cedar decks.

  • No. Cedar is not what it used to be. It is more expensive, and does not last as long. Even the lower grade composite like Trex are cheaper and last longer.
    Do you build cedar decks.

Do you use Trex?

  • No. Trex is a composite that has just a little too much play in for us to produce work at the standards we hold ourselves to.

How long does it take to build a deck?

  • Our projects usually take 2-3 weeks.

Do you do deck repairs?

  • No, only offer high-quality long-term solutions and usually when clients are asking for a 'repair' is means the deck needs to be replaced

How far ahead do I need to plan to build my deck?

  • Most deck builder have a lead time of 6 month to a year.

    If you really wanted to rush a project it still would take two to three weeks to plan and order materials.

How soon can you build my deck?

  • We build decks in the order we receive scheduling deposit.

    Like any deck builder, our lead time grows as the weather gets warmer.

Do you paint decks?

  • No, because it is very expensive, and still usually only lasts a year or two. We do replace the surface of decks with PVC deck boards

Do you build rooftop decks?

  • Yes, we do.

Do you fix leaks or work on membrane decks?

Do you do hardscapes?

What is membrane waterproofing?

  • A waterproofing membrane is a layer of water-tight material that lies on a surface to prevent water leaks or damages. The process usually consists of liquid-applied or pre-formed sheet membranes