Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the answers to some of the most popular questions we get asked by customers like you!

Company FAQs

Our Motto: Your Inspiration Lives Here. Inspiring you through the way we live, and the way we build where you live.

What does this mean?

The people in this world are most important. Without the people we wouldn't have the amazing world we have today. The people are our team members and they are our customers. Our passion is to inspire everybody through the way we live and the way we build where you live. Our team LOVES what they do and they inspire others to love what they do. Our team lives out this passion on site and in the office but more importantly they live out this passion beyond the workplace. In their own homes and in the local community. The impact of the passion we bring to life here at TEAM Builders spreads contagiously to the lives of our team member families, our TEAM Builder clients, and our TEAM Builders community.

Yes, we offer construction financing options to all of our fence clients through Sunlight Financial. You can decide to finance the entire project or just part of it.

We are proud to say that we use all in-house labor for our deck projects. This means that you will receive the same level of interest and attention to detail on the actual construction of your deck as you experience with the design and estimate.

Yes, the product manufacturer carries the warranty as long as the deck is registered online.

We are a platinum (top tier) level installer for both Timbertech/Azek products.

Absolutely! You can rest assured that if anything unpredicted does happen to your property due to an accident caused by us we are fully licensed and insured to cover it. This very rarely happens, but we are prepared if it does.

When you purchase a new deck from Team Builders we cover everything related to the construction process. This includes submitting a building design to the appropriate city or county departments for building permits prior to construction. If any building inspections are needed in your area we also organize those as required by code.

Absolutely! We will call in for the appropriate utilities to mark any underground public lines on and around the proposed project the week prior to showing up to build your deck.. A utility marker will come to your property and detect and mark the lines underground with spray paint and possibly marker flags. We then receive a notification from the utility marker that the property has been marked, which we double check before showing up for your project. This not only keeps your property safe, but protects our field team from potential injury.

Deck FAQs

We use a modern technology product called Diamond Pier footings. When unable to use those, we dig holes and install concrete footings.

Yes, this is an option to add to your deck. We use Timbertech joist flashing tape to cover the top surfaces of all framing components of your deck.

We typically use 6x6 posts for support on everything.

Yes, because we want to prevent water from wicking up from the ground into your framing.

PVC decking is 100% recycled plastic while composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic products. Both products feature a "cap" which is an extra, added layer of protection that helps make them more durable and longer lasting.

That is our preferred method of installation to ensure less open end cuts visible as our finished product.

Railing FAQs

We offer both Prestige Aluminum and CrystalRail glass railings to suit a variety of styles and budgets. Both of these systems are long-lasting and weather-resistant, making them both great options for Cedar Falls, Iowa properties.

However, due to their tempered glass construction, CrystalRail glass panels will require additional routine cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, aluminum railings are a more cost-effective, traditional option. Ultimately, both of these railings are fantastic options, and the best railing for your property will be dependent upon your style and budget.

Above all, safety in deck construction is vitally important and the deck pros at Team Builders ensure that we meet or exceed all building code regulations for your particular area. All decks over 30 inches above grade require a guardrail system to be installed with the top railing being a minimum of 36 inches above the deck level. Spindles should be placed with spacing 4 inches maximum in between spindles.

A railing on a deck is like a best friend at a party: always there to keep you safe, steady, and stylish! Whether you're admiring the view or just need a little support, a railing has got you covered. So, go ahead and step out onto the deck with confidence, knowing that your strong, sturdy railing is there to catch you.

ADI Prestige (Aluminum)
ADI Aluminum Railing provides a durable and attractive railing solution for both residential and commercial properties. Its aluminum construction makes it resistant to weathering, rust, and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance. The railing is easy to install, lightweight, and low maintenance, making it a cost-effective option. Additionally, it offers a variety of design options, allowing for customization to match the aesthetic of the property. Overall, ADI Aluminum Railing provides a safe, reliable, and visually appealing railing solution.

Crystal Rail
The sleek and modern design of the Crystal Frameless Glass Railing creates a minimalist look that can instantly transform any space into something special. This type of glass railing is made from high-quality tempered glass and is durable, weather-resistant, and low maintenance, ensuring long-lasting performance. Additionally, it is easy to install and can be customized to fit the specific needs and design of a property. Regal Ideas Crystal Railing provides a safe, reliable, and visually appealing railing option that adds value to any property.

Treated/Cedar Rail - Wood Spindles
Treated cedar railing with wood spindles may provide a traditional and natural look but it does require significant maintenance to keep its appearance. Staining the wooden spindles takes time and effort. The treated wood construction makes the railing durable and resistant to weathering, rot, and insect damage, making it suitable for outdoor use. However, the wooden spindles, while adding a decorative touch, require ongoing maintenance to preserve their appearance. This material is cost-effective and easy to work with, but the added maintenance demands should be considered before choosing this option.

Treated/Cedar Rail - Metal Spindles
If choosing to have a wood railing, then our suggestion is to keep the wooden railing but use metal spindles instead of wooden spindles. This provides a modern and stylish look while also offering ease of maintenance. The metal spindles are durable, weather-resistant, and require minimal maintenance, ensuring a long-lasting and low-maintenance railing solution.

We offer custom lighting packages, such as post cap lighting, step lighting, up lighting, and many more. Privacy railings are becoming super popular. We can also install drink rails on some of our railing options so you can entertain with ease and comfort!

Yes! We love installing deck gates for customers with small pets or children to help keep our Cedar Valley community safe. We offer a wide range of styles and materials, meaning you're sure to find a gate option that works perfectly for you. Speak with one of our deck experts to learn more about our available styles.

Pergola FAQs

Pergolas are a fantastic outdoor living solution for properties in Cedar Falls, Iowa. A pergola can extend your living space and create a shaded, comfortable area that is fantastic for relaxing with friends and family. A well-constructed pergola adds style and comfort to your home and can be customized to suit your needs whether you are interested in creating a large shaded area for relaxation or a small oasis in your garden.

We can create a number of custom pergolas to suit your property and your individual needs. If you are interested in creating an outdoor living space to accommodate a grill and patio area, then a larger pergola may suit your needs. However, a smaller pergola may be more suited for creating an area to have a small table for reading or drinking a cup of coffee. Whatever your needs are personal preferences, we can create the perfect pergola for you!

At Team Builders, we create pergolas out of high-quality materials that can withstand the harsh weather conditions of Cedar Falls, Iowa for many years. However, some routine maintenance may be required to keep your pergola looking neat and tidy. The specific maintenance requirements of your pergola will depend on the material your pergola is constructed out of. Speak with our experts to learn more about the specific maintenance requirements for your custom pergola.

A beautiful pergola that is uniquely designed for your Iowa property can be a significant investment. However, the price of your pergola may vary widely depending on the material, size, shape, and customization options that you select. Fortunately, our amazing team is ready to help you determine what type of pergola fits within your budget. We provide free estimates and work closely with our customers to design the outdoor solution they have always dreamed of!

Local building codes vary widely throughout Iowa and your pergola project may require a permit. Permitting requirements may change based on the location and size of your project, as well as if your pergola is installed on a residential or business property, or if your pergola is freestanding or attached to a building. With all of these unique requirements, it's best to check with your local permitting office before starting the construction of a pergola project. We have extensive experience with building pergolas in the Cedar Falls, Iowa area and our team can help you navigate through the permitting process!

The timeframe from initial consultation to finishing your pergola construction can vary depending on the time of year your pergola is installed and the scope of your project. Larger pergolas with multiple custom features may take longer, especially when installed during peak months. However, we always have room for another pergola project! Reach out to our team today to discuss the timeline of your project.