Is $350 to lift deck and notch middle posts a fair price?
Project Details
My wife and I just bought a house, and our inspector pointed out some issues with the deck. The middle posts aren't notched, so the beam isn't properly bearing on the 4x4s, and the middle post footings are just concrete pads resting on the soil, not set into the ground like the outer posts. The inspector said it might sag over time, even though it was marked 'up to code'. I'm a first-time homebuyer and live in the Midwest, so we experience all four seasons, including freezing winters. I'm concerned about the safety of the deck for my family and want to fix it now if it will prevent bigger problems later. I'm also wondering if the deck was ever city approved. I plan to get a structural engineer to look at it after closing and then get bids from deck professionals in the spring.
Quote Details
A handyman/contractor offered to fix the deck issues. The proposed work includes: - Lift the deck using hydraulics - Notch the middle posts on the inside to ensure the beam properly bears on them
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