
FAQ
You've Got Questions
Straight answers about decks, siding, remodeling, pricing, and what it’s like to work with us. If you don’t see your question here, give us a call — we’re happy to talk.
Decks & Construction
How long does it take to build a custom deck?+
Most standard deck builds take 1–3 weeks from demolition to final walkthrough, depending on size, height off the ground, material choice, and complexity of railings and stairs. A simple ground-level deck might be done in 4–5 days; a multi-level deck with stairs, lighting, and composite decking can take 2–3 weeks. We'll give you a clear timeline during your estimate so you know exactly what to expect.
What's the difference between wood and composite decking?+
Wood (typically pressure-treated pine, cedar, or redwood) costs less upfront — roughly $15–40 per square foot installed depending on species — but needs sanding, staining, and sealing every 1–3 years. Composite (like Trex) costs $30–55 per square foot installed but requires almost no maintenance beyond occasional soap and water. Over 10+ years, composite usually costs less total when you factor in maintenance. Composite also resists rot, insects, and fading better than wood, which matters a lot in Tennessee's humid summers.
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Tennessee?+
In most cases, yes — but we handle it for you. Any deck attached to the house or over 30 inches above grade typically requires a building permit. Each city (Crossville, Cookeville, Knoxville, etc.) has its own requirements, and HOA communities like Fairfield Glade often have additional design review. We pull all necessary permits, schedule inspections, and make sure everything is code-compliant before we hand over the finished deck.
Can you build a deck on a sloped or uneven lot?+
Absolutely — it's one of our specialties. Sloped lots are common around the Cumberland Plateau and lakefront areas. We engineer the substructure to handle the grade, use appropriate footing depths, and design the deck to feel like a natural extension of the house rather than something perched awkwardly on the hillside. Multi-level decks and wrap-around designs often work beautifully on sloped sites.
What kind of warranty do you offer?+
We stand behind our work with a 6-12 month workmanship warranty on all labor (varies by project scope and materials). Trex composite decking carries a 25-year limited fade and stain warranty, and most other materials we use have manufacturer warranties ranging from 15 years to lifetime. If something isn't right, we fix it — no runaround, no excuses.
Siding & Exterior
How do I know if my siding needs to be replaced or just repaired?+
A few cracked or warped panels can usually be replaced individually. But if you're seeing widespread issues — fading across large areas, multiple panels pulling away, moisture damage inside the house, or siding that's 20+ years old — replacement is the better investment. We'll do a free inspection and give you an honest assessment. We'd rather tell you a repair is enough than sell you a replacement you don't need.
What's the best siding material for Tennessee weather?+
James Hardie fiber cement is our top recommendation for Tennessee homes. It handles humidity without rotting, doesn't warp in freeze-thaw cycles, resists termites and woodpeckers, and holds paint 2–3 times longer than wood. It's also fire-resistant, which matters in drier parts of the state. Vinyl is more affordable upfront but fades faster in our sun and can crack in hail. Wood siding is beautiful but demands regular maintenance in our climate.
How long does a full siding replacement take?+
A typical single-family home takes 1–2 weeks from tear-off to final cleanup. Larger homes, homes with complicated architectural details, or projects that uncover sheathing damage can add a few days. We'll keep you updated throughout — no surprises, no disappearing crew for days at a time.
Remodeling & Interior
Do you do kitchen and bathroom remodels?+
Yes — we handle full kitchen and bathroom renovations, from layout and design through plumbing, electrical, cabinetry, countertops, tile, and finish work. We also do flooring, painting, and general interior remodeling. If it's inside your home and you want it done right, we can likely handle it.
How long does a kitchen remodel typically take?+
A full kitchen renovation — cabinets, countertops, flooring, plumbing, electrical — usually takes 4–8 weeks depending on scope. A cosmetic refresh (new counters, backsplash, paint) can be done in 1–2 weeks. We'll give you a detailed schedule before we start and stick to it.
Can I live in my home during a remodel?+
Yes, in almost all cases. We section off the work area with plastic barriers to contain dust, clean up at the end of every day, and work around your schedule. For kitchen remodels, we'll set up a temporary kitchen station so you can still make coffee and heat up meals. The only exception would be a whole-home renovation, which is rare — and we'd discuss that upfront.
Estimates, Pricing & Financing
How much does a new deck cost?+
Deck costs vary widely based on size, material, height, and features like stairs, railings, lighting, and built-in seating. As a rough guide: a basic 12×16 pressure-treated wood deck might run $8,000–$14,000, while a 20×20 Trex composite deck with quality railings and stairs could be $25,000–$45,000. The best way to get an accurate number is a free on-site estimate — we'll measure, discuss options, and give you a detailed quote with no obligation.
Are your estimates really free?+
Yes — completely free, no strings attached. We come to your home, walk the site with you, talk through your vision, take measurements, and give you a written estimate. No high-pressure sales pitch. If you're not ready to move forward, that's fine — the quote is yours to keep and think about.
Do you offer financing?+
Yes. We work with multiple lending partners to offer flexible financing with competitive rates and terms from 12 to 120 months. Most applicants get a same-day decision, and there's no prepayment penalty. You can finance the full project or combine financing with a cash down payment. Visit our Financing page for details, or ask during your estimate.
Do you offer discounts for military or first responders?+
We do. We're proud to offer special savings for active military, veterans, first responders (police, fire, EMS), teachers, nurses, and seniors 65+. Just let us know when you request your estimate and we'll apply the discount.
Working With Us
Are you licensed and insured?+
Yes. We're fully licensed in Tennessee and carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. We're also a TrexPro Platinum Builder — the highest certification level Trex offers — and a James Hardie certified installer. We're happy to provide documentation during your estimate.
Do you use subcontractors?+
We have an in-house crew for deck building, siding, and most exterior work. For specialized trades — licensed electricians, plumbers, HVAC — we work with a small group of trusted local subcontractors we've known for years. Everyone who works on your home is insured and vetted. You'll always know who's showing up and when.
What areas do you serve?+
We're based in Crossville and serve communities across the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee Valley: Fairfield Glade, Cookeville, Knoxville, Oak Ridge, Lenoir City, Harriman, Kingston, Rockwood, and surrounding areas. If you're not sure whether you're in our service area, give us a call — we'll let you know.
What does the process look like from start to finish?+
It starts with a free on-site estimate where we discuss your project, take measurements, and put together a detailed quote. Once you approve, we handle permits, order materials, and schedule your start date. During the build, we're on-site every working day, clean up daily, and keep you updated on progress. After completion, we do a final walkthrough with you to make sure everything is exactly right — and we don't consider the job done until you're satisfied.
How far out are you booked?+
It varies by season — spring and early summer are our busiest times. Typically we're scheduling 2–6 weeks out from estimate to start date, depending on project size and current workload. We'll give you an honest timeline during your estimate. If you're flexible on timing, we can often fit smaller projects in sooner.

Still Have Questions?
Let’s Talk In Person
Every project is different. Call us or request a free estimate and we’ll come out, walk your property, and answer every question you have — no pressure, no obligation.
