You’ve always had a knack for construction, and you want to take your talents to the next level by becoming a deck builder in New Orleans. But before you can start building decks in one of America’s most historic cities, you’ll need to learn a thing or two about the tools of the trade. Here are some steps to help get you started.
Step 1: Get an Education
To become a deck builder in New Orleans, you’ll first need to get an education. Most contractors recommend at least a high school diploma or the equivalent. You can find many trade schools and community colleges in Louisiana that offer classes and associate’s degrees in related fields, such as construction management or carpentry. These programs will give you the practical knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a deck builder in New Orleans.
Step 2: Become an Apprentice
Individuals who want to become a deck builder will often start out by taking part in an apprenticeship program. Some of these programs are offered through unions, while others are offered directly through employers. Through both types of apprenticeships, you’ll receive formal training and on-the-job experience while working as an assistant under the supervision of experienced professionals. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-4 years and require completion of 144 hours of classes per year.
Step3: Become licensed and insured
The first thing you’ll need to do is become properly licensed with the state of Louisiana. Visit the website for the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors, and follow the instructions there to register your business and obtain a license. You’ll also want to obtain liability insurance before you start work on your first deck. That way if something happens on the job, you won’t be liable.
Step 4: Join your local home builders’ association
You might be asking yourself why it’s important to join a home builders’ association if you’re going to be building decks. The short answer is that it’s always good idea to join professional organizations like these because they open doors to new business opportunities and help you stay up-to-date on all the latest industry trends.
Step 5: Get some experience working for another deck builder
You can’t become an expert deck builder overnight. It takes time, practice, and experience. Even if you get a degree in architecture or construction, you’ll still need to gain some experience working for another deck builder in New Orleans before you start laying down boards on your own. You’ll learn how to use the tools, how to build a deck that is safe and strong enough to hold up, and how to follow building codes and regulations. You’ll also learn what kind of equipment you need when starting your own business as well as where to buy supplies at a good price.
Step 6: Create a business plan
The best way to ensure that your business is successful is to create a business plan. This will help you map out all of the processes, materials, and legalities that are involved in becoming a deck builder in New Orleans.
Step 7: Find financing
Once you’ve drawn up your business plan, you’ll need to find a way to finance your deck-building enterprise. You can begin by looking for investors who are willing to put money behind your enterprise. If you have a solid business plan and show them how their investment will be used, they may help you get off the ground.
Step 8: Purchase the necessary equipment and supplies
You’ll need to have the right tools for any job, and building a deck is no exception. Make sure you have a circular saw, which will allow you to cut pieces of lumber to the appropriate length. You’ll also need a drill, socket set, hammer and nails, ladder, shovel and measuring tape. Additionally, you’ll want to purchase several pieces of treated lumber along with screws and bolts to fasten them together.
Step 9: Launch your business
Once you’ve obtained the proper permits and insurance, you can start building decks. You can advertise your business by posting flyers in your neighborhood, using word of mouth, or creating a website. You may also want to consider joining a professional association to network with other deck builders in New Orleans.
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! You are a deck builder in New Orleans. But remember to stay humble and keep learning. There’s always something new to be learned about deck building, carpentry, or anything, really. The world is full of mysteries just waiting to be solved.
