Your Deck Building Questions, Answered
Building a new deck is a big decision, and we want you to feel confident every step of the way. Below you’ll find answers to the questions we hear most from homeowners in Gervais and the surrounding Willamette Valley. If you don’t see your question here, give us a call at (971) 406-9203 we’re always happy to help.
Have a question? Select a topic below to find helpful answers.
About CraftHaven Carpentry
Who is CraftHaven Carpentry?
CraftHaven Carpentry is a locally owned and operated deck building and outdoor living company based in Gervais, Oregon. The business was founded in November 2023 by Phillip Toran and serves homeowners throughout the Willamette Valley. We specialize in custom decks, pergolas, patios, siding, outdoor kitchens, and more.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Yes. CraftHaven Carpentry is a licensed LLC that is fully bonded and insured. Every project we take on is covered for your protection. We’re happy to provide proof of insurance upon request.
What is a Trex Certified Installer?
A Trex Certified Installer is a contractor who has been trained and approved by Trex—one of the leading composite decking manufacturers—to install their products. This certification means your Trex deck is built to the manufacturer’s exact specifications, which protects your product warranty and ensures a professional result. CraftHaven Carpentry holds this certification.
Will I work directly with the owner?
Yes. When you call CraftHaven Carpentry, you speak directly with Phillip, the owner. We’re a small, owner-operated business, and Phillip is involved in every project from the initial estimate through the final walkthrough. You won’t be handed off to a sales team or a subcontractor.
Pricing and Financing
How much does it cost to build a deck in Gervais, Oregon?
Deck costs vary based on the size, materials, and features involved. A basic pressure-treated wood deck is the most affordable option, cedar falls in the mid-range, and composite decking from brands like Trex, TimberTech, and Dekorators has a higher upfront cost but requires far less maintenance over its lifespan. Custom features like railings, lighting, built-in seating, or multi-level designs will also affect the price. We provide free, no-obligation estimates so you know exactly what your project will cost before any work begins.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes. Every project starts with a free on-site estimate. We visit your home, assess the space, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed written quote with transparent pricing. There’s no pressure and no obligation.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We’ve partnered with Acorn Finance to offer flexible financing options for our customers. This makes it easier for Gervais homeowners to get the deck, patio, or outdoor living space they want without paying the full amount upfront. Ask us about financing during your estimate.
Are there any hidden fees or surprise charges?
Never. We believe in transparent, upfront pricing. Your written estimate includes everything—materials, labor, permits, and cleanup. If anything changes during the project, we discuss it with you and get approval before moving forward. No surprises.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, personal checks, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, ATM/debit cards, PayPal, invoicing, and financing through Acorn Finance.
Materials and Brands
What decking materials do you work with?
We work with a full range of decking materials, including composite boards from Trex, TimberTech, and Dekorators, PVC decking, natural cedar, and pressure-treated lumber. Each material has different strengths in terms of appearance, durability, maintenance, and cost. We’ll help you choose the right one for your project during your consultation.
What is composite decking, and why should I consider it?
Composite decking is an engineered material made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic polymers, wrapped in a protective polymer shell. It resists rot, fading, staining, and insect damage, and it requires virtually no staining or sealing. It costs more upfront than wood, but over a 20- to 30-year span, it typically costs less to own when you factor in eliminated maintenance.
Which decking material is best for Oregon’s climate?
Oregon’s wet climate makes moisture resistance a top priority. Composite decking from Trex, TimberTech, or Dekorators handles rain and humidity exceptionally well. Natural cedar is also a strong choice thanks to its natural resistance to rot and decay. PVC decking offers the highest moisture resistance of all since it contains no wood fibers. We’ll help you weigh the options based on your budget and preferences.
What is the difference between Trex, TimberTech, and Dekorators?
All three are premium composite decking brands, but they differ in product lines, textures, and price points. Trex is the most widely recognized and offers options from entry-level to premium. TimberTech offers both capped composite and capped polymer lines with deep wood-grain textures. Dekorators uses a mineral-based composite that’s exceptionally moisture-resistant. As a Trex Certified Installer, we have deep expertise with Trex but install all three brands.
Can I see material samples before I decide?
Absolutely. During your consultation, we bring samples of decking boards, railing systems, and color options so you can see and feel the materials before making a decision. We want you to be confident in your choice.
Process and Timeline
What does your deck building process look like?
Our process follows five straightforward steps: free on-site estimate, design and material selection, permits and scheduling, professional construction, and a final walkthrough. We keep you informed at every stage and don’t consider the job done until you’re completely satisfied. The process is similar for our other services like patios, pergolas, siding, and outdoor kitchens.
How long does it take to build a new deck?
Most residential decks take between one and three weeks to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the design. Simple, single-level decks are on the shorter end, while multi-level builds with railings, lighting, and custom features take longer. We’ll give you a clear, realistic timeline during your estimate.
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Gervais?
In most cases, yes. Oregon requires building permits for deck construction, and the specific requirements depend on your county and the scope of the project. CraftHaven Carpentry handles the entire permitting process for you, including pulling the permit and coordinating inspections, so you don’t have to worry about it.
What happens if you find damage during construction?
If we discover any unexpected issues—like rot in the ledger board or problems with the existing structure—we’ll stop, show you what we found, and discuss the best path forward before proceeding. We never make changes or add costs without your knowledge and approval.
Do you handle the cleanup?
Yes. We treat your property with respect throughout the project and clean up the job site when the work is complete. We haul away all old materials and debris so your yard is left in the same condition it was in before we started—minus the old deck, plus the new one.
Service Area and Scheduling
Where does CraftHaven Carpentry work?
We serve homeowners throughout the Willamette Valley, including Gervais, Woodburn, Salem, Silverton, Keizer, Hillsboro, Beaverton, West Linn, Lake Oswego, Eugene, and surrounding communities. We generally stay out of Portland proper. If you’re not sure whether we cover your area, give us a call at (971) 406-9203 and we’ll let you know.
What are your business hours?
We’re available Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 7 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM. We’re closed on Sundays. You can call us at (971) 406-9203 or email crafthavencarpentry@gmail.com to schedule your free estimate.
How far out are you typically booked?
Our schedule varies by season. Spring and summer are our busiest times for deck building, so we recommend reaching out as early as possible to secure your spot. That said, we do our best to accommodate every customer’s timeline. The sooner you call, the sooner we can get your project on the calendar.
Can I schedule an estimate on a weekend?
Yes. We offer Saturday estimates from 9 AM to 4 PM for homeowners who aren’t available during the week. Just give us a call or send an email and we’ll find a time that works for you.