Deck and fence quotes have more hidden variables than almost any other outdoor trade. The difference between two quotes for the “same” deck often comes down to footing depth, structural member sizing, ledger attachment method, and decking product grade — none of which is visible in a finished photograph. Knowing what to ask makes the difference between comparing equivalent proposals and comparing entirely different levels of quality.
“When I review a competitor’s quote that came in lower than mine, I ask one question: what’s the footing depth? If the answer is 18 inches, I know exactly where the savings came from. You can’t build a frost-heave-resistant deck in many regions with 18-inch footings, and you can’t price that deck as cheaply as one that’s done correctly. The footing is where the honest contractor’s quote differs from the shortcut.”
— Miriam Okello, outdoor structures specialist and fence installation contractor with 12 years of residential fencing experience in the local area
Table of Contents
Before Comparing Quotes
Are you getting at least three quotes?
For any deck or fence project above $5,000 — and significant deck builds or full-perimeter fence projects easily exceed this — three quotes is the right minimum. The structural quality variation is significant enough that fewer quotes leave you unable to identify outliers.
Are all quotes based on the same structural specifications?
Before comparing prices, confirm each contractor is quoting the same footing depth, the same structural member sizes, the same decking material, and the same permit scope. A quote without these specifications isn’t a quote — it’s a starting point for negotiation after the job is done.
Questions About Deck Quotes
What is the footing depth and diameter specified?
Ask explicitly and get the answer in writing. In many regions, footings should be a minimum of 1.2 meters (4 feet) deep to extend below the frost line. The diameter should be appropriate for the load being carried — typically 300–400mm (12–16 inches) for residential decks.
A quote that specifies footing depth is a quote from a contractor who understands structural requirements. A quote that omits this specification is hiding either ignorance or a shortcut.
What are the beam, joist, and post sizes?
Ask for dimensional specifications for every structural element — not just the decking. “Standard framing” is not a specification.
What decking product is specified?
Ask for the brand, product line, and thickness of the decking boards. “Composite decking” is not a specification. “Trex Select, 1″ x 6″ grooved boards” is.
Is the ledger attachment method specified?
For attached decks, ask specifically how the ledger will be fastened to the house — fastener type, size, spacing — and what flashing system will be installed. This should be in writing.
What is included in the quote?
Ask whether the quote includes: permits and permit fees, concrete for footings, all structural lumber, all hardware (joist hangers, post caps, ledger bolts), decking, fascia boards, railing system, stairs, and cleanup. Each of these can be excluded from a low quote.
How is the railing included?
Railing systems vary enormously in cost — from basic wood baluster railings at $30–50 per linear foot to cable railing or glass panel systems at $150–300+ per linear foot. Confirm that the railing style and cost are specified in the quote.
Questions About Fence Quotes
What is the post depth and concrete specification?
Ask explicitly. Posts should be set at a depth appropriate for the fence height and frost conditions — generally 900mm–1.2m (3–4 feet) in many regions for a standard 6-foot fence.
What post material and treatment rating is specified?
Ground-contact rated pressure-treated lumber (UC4B) for wood posts. For vinyl fences, ask whether posts have internal steel or aluminum reinforcement.
What fence board material and grade is specified?
Not all cedar is the same grade. Not all composite fence boards have the same thickness and warranty. Ask for specifics.
Are gates included, and what hardware?
Gate hardware — hinges, latches, anti-sag kits — is a meaningful cost. Confirm gates and hardware are included and specify what hardware grade is being installed.
Does the quote include removal of existing fencing?
Removing and disposing of existing fence materials adds time and cost. Ask explicitly whether removal is included.
Questions About Payment
What is the payment schedule?
A reasonable schedule: a deposit of 10–25% at signing to cover materials ordering, a milestone payment when footings or posts are set and inspected, and the balance at satisfactory completion.
Avoid contractors who ask for more than 40–50% upfront before significant work has been done. For a deck or fence project where most of the cost is labor, a contractor who needs more than a third of the total before work begins may have cash flow concerns.
Do you accept cheque or e-transfer?
Always pay by cheque or e-transfer. Cash-only contractors leave no paper trail and no recourse.
Related Questions
- Questions to Ask a Deck or Fence Contractor Before You Hire One
- Questions to Ask a Deck Contractor About Materials and Structural Design
- Questions to Ask a Fence Contractor About Fence Materials and Design
- How Much Does a Deck Cost ?
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