A decking contractor builds decks within an agreed project scope. Some teams also help develop the layout, select materials, and coordinate related outdoor work. The job title alone does not tell you which services are included, so ask how your project would move from an initial idea to a written quote and construction.
BigDecks is an outdoor design-build company serving Austin and Central Texas. Its work includes real-wood decks, outdoor bathing, wood and steel fencing, and in-house welding, metalwork, and carpentry. Understanding that scope helps you decide whether your project is a fit.
Clarify the kind of project you need
Describe what you want to achieve before asking for a price. A new deck, a redesigned outdoor layout, and resurfacing an existing deck start with different questions. Share photographs, approximate dimensions, and the features you hope to retain or change.
BigDecks can discuss refinishing or resurfacing with new material and finish; it does not offer handyman repairs. If an existing structure is involved, ask what evaluation is needed before its reuse can be considered. The condition of a deck should not be inferred from a surface photograph or a proposed new finish.
Understand what design means in the proposal
Ask whether the project is a straightforward build or needs a broader plan. A simple deck may be defined without a separate design service. A project combining a deck, fencing, bathing features, and paths needs decisions about the relationships between those elements.
BigDecks offers paid Design Assist for multi-component and site-plan projects. It provides a 3D design and plan, and the fee is credited to the build if the project proceeds. Straightforward builds have no design fee. Ask what the proposed plan will cover and which site questions must still be assessed.
Ask how the site will be evaluated
Show the connection to the house, changes in ground level, existing structures, and the route available for the work. Ask what additional information is needed before the construction scope can be finalized. Clarify who will address any project-specific structural or approval questions.
A rendering communicates a design; it does not, by itself, establish that every part is ready to build. This is especially relevant when a concept includes an elevated area or outdoor bathing equipment. Ask which decisions are confirmed and which depend on further review.
Review the actual materials and finishing
A deck quote should identify the proposed surface and distinguish it from the supporting structure. BigDecks BigDecks OG 4×12 uses Douglas fir or Western red cedar surface boards. The little g uses 2×10 surface boards in those same species. The dimensions describe surface boards, not universal framing specifications.
Standard Decks are a secondary entry option with pressure-treated pine structure and surface, ring-shank nails, and an unfinished base. Finish is optional à la carte. Review the deck options and ask which material, preparation, and finish are included in your particular quote. BigDecks does not offer composite decking.
Compare communication and scope
Ask who will be your point of contact, how selections will be recorded, and how changes will be handled. Review examples of work relevant to your project and ask what the proposed team would be responsible for. A clear answer about responsibilities is more useful than a broad promise that every detail is included.
Compare written quotes for the same proposed dimensions, material choices, finishing, and related work. Ask about exclusions and unresolved decisions. Confirm what needs to happen before a schedule can be established rather than expecting a fixed duration for every deck.
Prepare for the first conversation
Bring a short description of your goals, photographs, approximate dimensions, and a list of other outdoor work you are considering. Use the planning estimate to frame an initial budget discussion; the written project quote confirms scope and price. Share your project with BigDecks to begin with the information that matters to the actual build.
Planning a project? Explore BigDecks OG 4×12, estimate your deck, or work through your layout with Design Assist. Material availability, pricing, and site requirements are confirmed for your project.