8 Key Advantages of Partnering With a Deck and Fence Company
This guide, which incorporates practical advice from home improvement professionals, will walk through the eight main benefits of taking this integrated approach for your next outdoor upgrade.
When planning a major backyard renovation that includes both a new deck and a new fence, homeowners often face a choice: hire two separate specialists or find one company that handles both. The smartest approach is almost always to partner with a single, qualified deck and fence company, as this integrated strategy offers numerous benefits.
Choosing one expert deck and fence company to manage both projects simplifies the process and leads to a better, more cohesive final result. This guide, which incorporates practical advice from home improvement professionals, will walk through the eight main benefits of taking this integrated approach for your next outdoor upgrade.
1. Specialized Outdoor Construction Expertise
Companies that specialize in both decks and fences are not generalists; they are masters of outdoor construction. They possess a specific skill set tailored to building structures that must withstand the elements. This expertise covers the critical differences between the two projects. They understand the structural load requirements for a deck, from the footing depth needed for the local climate to the correct way to attach a ledger board to a house. At the same time, they know the best practices for setting fence posts that will remain plumb and secure for decades. This dual expertise ensures both parts of your project are built to the highest standard.
2. A Unified and Cohesive Design
One of the biggest advantages of using a single company is the ability to create a harmonious backyard design. When one team designs both the deck and the fence, they can ensure the styles, materials, and colors complement each other perfectly.
This integrated design approach allows for:
- Matching Aesthetics: The deck railing can be designed to match or coordinate with the fence style.
- Seamless Transitions: The placement of deck stairs can be perfectly aligned with a gate in the fence line, creating a natural flow.
- Consistent Materials: They can help you select a composite decking color that pairs beautifully with a specific vinyl fence, creating a polished, intentional look.
This level of design cohesion is very difficult to achieve when coordinating with two separate companies who may have different design sensibilities.
Bonus Tip: Ask your contractor about "picture framing" your deck. This technique involves running a border board around the perimeter of the deck, which can be a great way to tie in a secondary color from your fence or house trim.
3. Increased Project Efficiency
Hiring an expert home improvement service eliminates the logistical challenges of coordinating two separate crews. A single project manager oversees the entire job, creating a more efficient workflow from start to finish. They can schedule the work logically to minimize disruption to your yard and your life. For example, they can bring in excavation equipment once to dig all the footings for the deck and all the post holes for the fence at the same time. This saves time and reduces the impact on your lawn.
4. Potential for Cost Savings
Bundling your deck and fence projects with one company can often lead to significant cost savings. While it's not always guaranteed to be the cheapest option, the efficiencies gained can translate into a better value.
Savings can come from several areas:
- Reduced Labor Costs: A single crew can work more efficiently, reducing the total number of man-hours required.
- Material Discounts: A larger combined order for lumber, composite, or vinyl materials may qualify for bulk pricing from suppliers.
- Lower Overhead: The company has only one set of mobilization costs for bringing tools and equipment to your site.
Comparing Project Management Costs
| Cost Factor | One Deck & Fence Company | Two Separate Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Project Management | One point of contact, streamlined scheduling. | Homeowner must coordinate two schedules. |
| Material Delivery | One or two large, coordinated deliveries. | Multiple separate deliveries, potentially higher fees. |
| Site Setup & Cleanup | Done once for the entire project. | Each company has its own setup and cleanup costs. |
| Permit Fees | Often bundled into a single permit application. | May require two separate permit applications and fees. |
5. Superior Knowledge of Outdoor Materials
Deck and fence specialists have a deep understanding of the materials designed to survive outdoors. They can provide expert advice on the best choices for your specific climate and budget. In a region like Delaware with its high humidity, they know which pressure-treated wood products have the right chemical retention to resist rot, and which composite brands have the best track record for resisting mildew. This material expertise is invaluable in building a project that will last.
6. Streamlined Permitting and Code Compliance
Both decks and fences are often subject to local building codes and permitting requirements. A deck has strict codes related to structural safety, while a fence has rules about height and setback from property lines. An experienced deck and fence company knows these codes inside and out. They can handle the entire permitting process for the combined project, ensuring that every aspect is fully compliant. This prevents potential conflicts, such as a deck staircase interfering with the required swing of a fence gate.
7. Comprehensive Warranties and Accountability
When one company is responsible for the entire project, there is no finger-pointing if a problem arises. If an issue occurs where the deck and fence meet, you have one clear point of contact to resolve it. A reputable company will provide a comprehensive workmanship warranty that covers both structures. This single source of accountability provides peace of mind that is not possible when dealing with two different contractors.
8. A Single, Simplified Point of Contact
A major home improvement project can be stressful. Having a single point of contact to call with questions, updates, or concerns simplifies the entire process. You build a relationship with one project manager who understands your complete vision. This eliminates the risk of miscommunication between different crews and ensures that you are always kept in the loop.
Things to Consider Before You Partner With a Company
While the benefits are clear, it’s important to do your homework before you decide to bundle your projects.
- Verify Dual Expertise: Make sure the company is truly an expert in both decks and fences. Look at their portfolio to see high-quality examples of both types of projects.
- Develop a Master Plan: Have a clear idea of what you want for your entire backyard. A good company can help you refine this vision, but it's best to start with a plan.
- Understand Your Budget: Know what you're prepared to spend on the combined project. This will help the contractor propose realistic designs and materials.
- Check HOA and Local Rules: Be aware of any restrictions from your Homeowners Association or local municipality before you get too far into the design process.
Bonus Tip: Even if you plan to build in phases, have your chosen company create a master design plan upfront. This ensures that the fence you build this year will perfectly complement the deck you plan to add next year.
Answering Common Questions About Combined Deck and Fence Projects
Is it always cheaper to bundle deck and fence services?
It often is, due to efficiencies in labor and materials, but not always. The main benefits are a better-integrated design and a simpler process. It's still wise to get a detailed, itemized quote.
Which should be installed first, the deck or the fence?
A good contractor will often install them concurrently. They may set all the posts for both at the same time. If they must be done sequentially, building the deck first is often preferred to avoid working around a finished fence.
Can I use the same material for both my deck and fence?
Sometimes. For example, you can build a beautiful cedar deck with a matching cedar fence. However, you wouldn't use decking material to build a fence. A good contractor can show you complementary materials, like a composite deck with a vinyl or aluminum fence.
What if I only want a deck now but might add a fence later?
Partner with a company that does both and have them create a master plan. This ensures that when you're ready for the fence, it will be designed to integrate perfectly with the deck they already built for you.
How do I find a company that is truly an expert in both?
Look for a company that dedicates significant space on its website and in its portfolio to both types of projects. Ask them specific, technical questions about both deck footings and fence post setting during the interview.
A Smarter Way to Build Your Backyard
Partnering with a single, expert deck and fence company is the most intelligent approach to a comprehensive backyard renovation. The benefits of a cohesive design, greater efficiency, and simplified accountability lead to a less stressful process and a superior final product. By thinking of your deck and fence as one integrated project from the start, you can create an outdoor living space that is both beautiful and functional.
Choosing Your Outdoor Construction Partner
Choosing the right contractor is the final step. For homeowners in the Delaware area looking for a company with proven expertise in both deck and fence construction, JPM Home Services is an excellent resource. They specialize in creating unified outdoor living spaces and can manage your entire project from design to completion. To discuss your combined deck and fence project, you can get in touch with their experienced team by calling (302) 598-6297 or by sending an email to jpmhomeservices@yahoo.com.
Reviewer: Chloe Martinez brings 8 years of experience in home improvement. Feedback from Chloe helped shape this post to better support companies working to strengthen their reputation and expand their reach.