01 / Framing
The joists, beam, posts and supports carry the deck. Ask what condition they are in and what the proposed work includes.
Boards. Railings. What’s underneath.
Deck Repair and Railings
A loose board or railing may be easy to spot. The supporting wood can need attention too. Ask Carlos to look at the whole deck before deciding how much to repair.
The boards, framing and railing work together to support your deck.
Look beyond the loose board.
Describe what has changed.
Point out soft spots, split boards, moving railings or a gap where the deck meets the house. A wide photo and a close-up help explain the concern before a visit.
Understand what can stay.
Replacing surface boards alone may leave damage in the framing. Ask about joists, beams, posts, connections and the ledger at the house. A photo cannot establish that these parts are sound.
Railings are part of the conversation.
Ask about the condition of the wood and connections, and whether a repair or a larger replacement makes sense. Confirm any applicable requirements with the local building department.
Considering a new wood deck?The parts worth asking about
A deck is a system.
02 / Ledger + flashing
Where a deck connects to the house, ask about the connection and how water is kept out of the wall.
03 / Wood railings
Discuss the railing design, connections and any applicable local requirements along with the deck itself.
The siding work is here to see.
The current project gallery shows siding and exterior trim. Ask Carlos directly for examples of recent wood deck work.
Browse the siding galleryA good place to start
Show Carlos what you have in mind.
A wide photo, a close-up, and your city. A simple first step toward an estimate.