Frequently Asked Questions.. Answered!

Knowledge Base

Have questions about our process, services, or what to expect when working with Coast Carpentry? You’re in the right place. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we get from homeowners across Ocean and Monmouth County—so you can feel confident and informed every step of the way. 

Common Questions About Home Remodels

Most Popular Questions

We specialize in custom, high-quality projects— primarily outdoor living spaces and full home remodels. We are carpenters by trade, and carpenters that love building cool things, so if you're looking for detail-driven work, thoughtful design, and a hands-on team that values craftsmanship, chances are we’re a great fit. Whether it’s a deck, an addition, or interior trim, we’re happy to discuss your ideas and see if we’re the right builder for the job.

You don’t need to have it all figured out before contacting us. We’ll help guide you through the design process, offer suggestions, and collaborate with you to bring your vision to life. Whether you have sketches, inspiration photos, or just a general idea, we’ll work with what you have and develop a plan together.

We recommend reaching out as early as possible—especially for larger projects like additions or custom outdoor living spaces. Our schedule tends to fill up quickly, particularly in spring and summer months. The earlier we can start the conversation, the better we can plan around your timeline and secure permits if needed.

We’re not a volume-based builder—we’re a quality-driven one. Owner Chris Duffy is hands-on with every job, ensuring every detail meets our high standards. We don’t cut corners, we communicate clearly, and we take pride in treating your home like our own. Our passion is in the craft, not just completing the job.

We handle most of the project in-house and limit subcontractor use wherever possible. If a specialty trade (like electrical or plumbing) is needed, we’ll coordinate everything for you using trusted professionals. That way, the process stays seamless and you only need to deal with one point of contact—us.

Most outdoor and structural projects require permits, and we take care of that for you. We're familiar with the zoning and building codes in Ocean and Monmouth County and make sure everything is fully compliant before construction starts.

Yes—we offer free, no-pressure estimates. We believe in transparency from the start, and we’re happy to give you a detailed overview of what your project might involve. Whether you're just starting to explore or ready to build, we’re here when you’re ready.

Most remodeling companies manage projects—they assemble subcontractors, source prefabricated materials, and coordinate logistics. At Coast Carpentry, we build. We're true craftsmen who take pride in creating things by hand—custom trim, built-ins, framing, finish work, and detailed elements most companies outsource or skip altogether. We don’t just oversee the job—we’re the ones shaping the materials, fine-tuning the details, and making something from nothing. That hands-on approach is what sets us apart.

Yes, Coast Carpentry is fully licensed and insured in the state of New Jersey. We take your peace of mind seriously and always operate with the proper coverage to protect both your home and our team throughout the entire project. It's one more way we ensure professionalism and accountability from start to finish.

We service most of Ocean County & Monmouth County, NJ. You can see a full list of our home remodel service areas here: Service Areas

Still Have Questions?

(609) 854-5894

Common Questions About New Deck Builds

Decks, Decks & More Decks

We work with a wide range of materials including low-maintenance composite options like Trex and TimberTech, as well as traditional wood like cedar, mahogany, and pressure-treated lumber. We’ll help you choose the best option for your style, budget, and maintenance preferences.

Yes—most towns in Ocean and Monmouth County require permits for new deck construction. Don’t worry—we handle the entire permitting process for you, from drawings to approvals.

Most deck projects take between 1 to 3 weeks depending on the size, complexity, and materials used. During your consultation, we’ll give you a realistic timeline so you know exactly what to expect.

Absolutely. We specialize in custom designs and will tailor your deck to fit the shape of your yard, your home's layout, and how you plan to use the space.

Composite decking is more resistant to moisture, fading, and rot, and requires very little maintenance. Wood decking offers a natural look and feel but requires regular sealing or staining to stay in good shape. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each during your consultation.

Yes! We can integrate custom seating, planters, privacy screens, lighting, and even outdoor kitchens or pergolas. Your deck should work for your lifestyle—not just look good.

We do our best to keep the worksite clean and respectful of your property. At the end of each day, we clean up materials and keep everything organized. Once the project is complete, we leave your yard in better shape than we found it.