Project: Deck replacement and expansion, approx 250 sqft.
I will try to be as honest as possible on my review. My criteria are: Communication, Price, Timeliness, Workmanship, Professionalism during work = total of 5 stars.
This company is 2/5 stars. Let me explain:
Communication: This is major issue. They didn't communicate that they were going to be late on start or when. I had to follow-up several times to get a response. Internal communication between estimator (Blythe), construction team and company owner (Robert Clerk) is lousy. My design was not followed. Supposedly the stairs of my deck is 'inside' the deck area. When they put the foundation posts, my wife (who's not really familiar with these things) realized something is wrong. But the guy putting posts said "I saw the drawing... and I know what I'm doing" Turns out, they had to place the stairs outside because there's nothing than can be done (the cement is already in place). Now the deck stairs is a foot protruding which looks weird and is blocking our brick patio. The owner even made it sound that he's trying to save me cost of the foundation posts, where clearly they made a mistake.
Price: Initially out of the 4 contractors that bid, they were the most competitive. After turning down the other bidders and decided to award it to Maritime, they changed the quote and pricing. "Sorry it we thought it was this size....", so we change our plans. So they sent a quote, this time for the right deck size. I was OK with it, but then again they resent it (3rd time now) because they did not consider some of the material costs, so they added $2 per sqft! If not only we were pressed with time, I would have changed contractors. I honestly felt we were robbed. The other contractors were way more professional. I also recommend to get your own permit if its a deck construction. You can get it online (go to City of Calgary) and way cheaper than what they charge. Bottomline, they probably are not the best deal.
Timeliness: The owner told me they were starting on Aug 7. I followed-up a week before Aug 7 to see if they are still in schedule, but no response. I gave them a chance to respond until it was past deadline. Then I started to worry and called them everyday thereafter. Finally they said they will "definitely" complete the project by Aug 20th. However, they started on the 20th. Did not even consider any buffer if the weather will turn sour. Actual date completed: Aug 24. That's 2 weeks late.
Workmanship: The deck itself looks great; sturdy - but again it was not how I wanted it. The stairs is protruding and blocking a portion the brick patio which makes it crowded. They could've done better by confirming everything with us before placing in the permanent structure. We're going to deal with it for the next 20 years. Also I was told they're going to make the joist spacing 12" on center, but actual was 16". Again changes were made based from original agreement. City inspection passed which is good.
Professionalism during work: Generally good. Robert is a likeable guy. I also like Cam. He explains politely when I ask of something. Of the 5 days they made the deck, they did not show up on the 4th day. No explanation given or communication. I had to ask them what's going on. Again back to Communication criteria. They cleaned up after work and gave me some scrap wood since I needed some for a small project.
Conclusion: I would hesitate to recommend this company. They're OK but you can definitely find someone better for its price. It came down to proper communication and firm pricing. I felt my project was not taken seriously (probably not as big as other projects).
Score: 2 out 5 stars.
