Ralph Continenza and his stepfather, Gene Ziegler, each had their own home improvement companies before deciding they were too busy on their own.

So Gene and his wife, Clara, formed Courtesy Construction & Remodeling with Ralph and his sister, Susan West, in 1993.

"We're a family business all the way," Continenza says.

Why should I consider adding a deck or a porch to my home?

"The biggest reason is for the convenience of entertaining outside. People can barbecue on their grills and enjoy outdoor meals, or just sit and enjoy the weather and nature."

What kind of materials do you use? What's best and why?

"Right now, it's about 50-50 between treated wood and plastic composite lumber. More people are going to plastic lumber because it's essentially maintenance free, but it costs about one-third to one-half more in cost.

I'd definitely recommend the plastic composite - it looks like natural wood, comes in nice colors, is maintenance free, and it won't warp, knot or split. It's just a nice, clean appearance all the time."

What the average price for a new deck?

"I'd say a normal size is about 20 feet by 12 feet for a treated wood deck and it would cost around $5,200 to $5,500. For the plastic composite, it's going to be about $2,500 more.

We guarantee all our workmanship and labor and we give product warranties as well. We'll also give a free estimate anywhere in our area."

Do I need to get a permit?

"Yes, but the homeowner should never do it. The contractor should always make sure it gets done, because they have to make the drawings and have the plan approved.

Most times, you can get the permit on the day you bring the drawings in. It doesn't take more than a week and most permits are between $30 and $50."

What do I need to do to maintain my deck or porch?

"If it's treated wood, a good UV-approved sealer should be applied in the first 30 days. You'll want to put on two good strong coats, and you can put a stain on it if you'd like when you seal it. With a plastic composite, there's no need for treatment - just hose it off when it gets dirty."