Frequently Asked Questions

At Turtle WoodWorks, we specialize in creating custom outdoor living spaces that bring your vision to life. Our core services include designing and building decks, docks, railings, fences, and pergolas, with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and materials that can handle the unique Tampa Bay climate.

Here’s a breakdown of what we offer:

• Deck Construction: From sleek composite decks that resist the Florida sun and humidity to beautiful hardwood options like Ipe and Teak, we tailor our deck designs to your style and needs. Whether you want a simple ground-level deck, a multi-level outdoor entertainment space, or something truly extraordinary, we have you covered. As a Board Bending Artisan, Matan can design and build unique custom curved board decks, including circle-shaped and elegantly curved designs, adding a stunning architectural element to your outdoor space.
• Dock Building: Living by the water is a Tampa Bay dream, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. We build durable and functional docks that provide easy water access while standing up to the coastal elements.
• Custom Railings: Railings are more than just a safety feature; they add to the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. We offer a variety of railing styles and materials to match your deck or dock perfectly, including metal, wood, and composite options.
• Fence Installation: Whether you need privacy, security, or just a way to outline your property, our custom fences are designed to complement your home’s exterior while providing long-lasting protection.
• Pergola Design and Construction: Pergolas add shade, beauty, and a touch of elegance to any outdoor area. We design and build custom pergolas that serve as the perfect backdrop for your backyard gatherings or a quiet place to relax.

In addition to building new structures, we also offer deck refinishing services to keep your natural wood deck looking fresh and resilient. Our team handles every project with care, working with you from initial design to final installation to ensure everything is done right and up to your standards.

Whether you’re looking to transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis, add a durable dock to your waterfront property, or create a one-of-a-kind curved deck, Turtle WoodWorks is here to deliver high-quality, custom-built solutions that you’ll love for years to come.

At Turtle WoodWorks, we’re proud to be a platinum installer for industry-leading brands like Trex and TimberTech. We specialize in installing various types of composite decking that offer durability and minimal maintenance, perfect for handling the humid Tampa Bay climate.

If you’re looking for something more natural, we also work with high-quality hardwoods such as Ipe, bamboo decking, Cumaru (commonly known as Brazilian Teak), and traditional Teak. Additionally, for those on a tighter budget, we offer pressure-treated decking, which is a cost-effective and sturdy option.

Whether you want a modern composite deck that stays cool even in the summer heat or the classic look of exotic hardwoods that naturally resist moisture and pests, we’ve got you covered.

We value your time and strive to make our consultation process efficient. To begin, we ask clients interested in moving forward with a project to send us a few photos of the area, along with rough measurements of the existing space. This helps us understand the project scope and provide an accurate estimate for different material options. Once you’ve reviewed our estimate and are ready to proceed, we’ll schedule an on-site consultation to finalize details.

During the on-site meeting, we’ll discuss your design preferences and evaluate the site conditions, ensuring everything is set for a seamless build. We work with you every step of the way to ensure your deck, dock, fence, or pergola meets your vision and needs.

Designing a custom outdoor space is about balancing functionality, aesthetics, and budget. After our on-site consultation, I hand-draw a few design options tailored to your specific requirements. We discuss factors like how you plan to use the space, the level of maintenance you’re comfortable with, and any architectural elements that need to be considered. For example, Tampa Bay’s coastal climate can be harsh on certain materials, so we guide you toward options that will last and look beautiful for years.

We’re happy to accommodate custom requests or work with structural plans if you have a specific vision in mind. Our goal is to design a space that complements your home and fits your lifestyle.

Maintenance needs vary depending on the material you choose. Composite decking from Trex or TimberTech is virtually maintenance-free and only requires periodic cleaning to keep it looking fresh. In contrast, natural woods like Ipe and Teak may need refinishing over time to maintain their color and durability. We do offer professional refinishing services for natural wood decks, which is especially useful in the Tampa Bay area, where exposure to sun and salt air can cause weathering.

Absolutely. We stand behind the quality of our craftsmanship with a one-year structural warranty on all our work. As for the materials, the manufacturers provide warranties ranging from 25 years to a lifetime, depending on the brand. We’ll make sure you’re informed about the specific warranties available for your chosen materials.

Yes, customization is one of our specialties. While I typically design projects myself to fit your needs and preferences, I’m also happy to work with your structural plans or any specific design ideas you have. Whether you’re envisioning a modern deck with sleek lines or a traditional pergola that evokes old Florida charm, we’re here to bring your vision to life.

Project timelines vary based on size and complexity. Smaller builds, like a simple ground-level deck, can take just a couple of days, while more complex structures like docks or multi-level decks may take a few weeks. We always specify an estimated timeline in our quotes and focus on one project at a time to ensure we deliver high-quality results efficiently.

Several elements can influence the total cost of your project, including:

• Demolition and Disposal: If we need to remove an existing structure, it adds to the cost.
• Elevated Structures: Building a second-story deck or balcony requires additional support and increases the expense.
• Dock Requirements: Projects involving docks may need pilings, which can impact the budget.
• Railing Options: Railings are quoted separately, and the style and material you choose can vary widely in cost.
• Skirting: Adding skirting to cover the area beneath your deck increases the overall square footage.
• Decking Material: The type of decking is often the largest cost factor, with options ranging from economical pressure-treated wood to premium composite or hardwood decking.

We provide detailed quotes to ensure there are no surprises, and we’re happy to discuss ways to adjust your project to fit your budget.

Permits and compliance with local regulations are an important part of any outdoor construction project in Tampa Bay, especially when dealing with waterfront properties. While we don’t pull permits directly, we are well-versed in the local requirements and can guide you through the permitting process, ensuring all documentation is properly prepared and submitted. We work closely with you to make sure your project is compliant and meets all necessary guidelines.