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Manifold is a field documentation app for decking and outdoor structure contractors. It captures GPS-tagged, timestamped photos automatically through each stage of a deck build, enforces photo proof on completion punch lists, and exports branded PDF handover reports. It works offline on iOS and Android and starts at $16/user/month with no seat minimums.
This guide covers the documentation workflow for decking contractors — new builds, replacements, and repairs — from pre-demo existing conditions through framing to client handover.
Before any demolition or site prep, photograph the existing structure from every angle — ledger board attachment, footing condition, joist ends, decking surface, railing, areas of visible rot. If building new, photograph ground conditions, slope, drainage, and existing landscaping. GPS-tagged and timestamped automatically in Manifold. A homeowner who claims damage to irrigation or landscaping gets answered with a timestamped photo of the area as it was on day one.
Demolition often reveals conditions not visible in the original assessment — rotted rim joists, failed post bases, deteriorated ledger flashing. Photograph every hidden condition immediately upon discovery, before any remediation starts. This is the evidence base for a change order conversation.
Key stages: footing installation and depth, post base hardware, beam and joist framing, ledger attachment and flashing, blocking, decking layout before fastening. For composite decking, photograph the hidden fastener layout. Photos taken in Manifold during the job sort automatically to the correct project via GPS.
Run a photo punch list: fasteners flush, railing secure, post caps fitted, drainage clear, site cleanup done. Each item locked until a completion photo is attached. One tap generates a PDF with before and after photos, framing documentation, and the completed punch list.
Photograph the existing structure from every angle: ledger board attachment, footing condition, joist ends, decking surface, railing, and any areas of visible rot or deterioration. Also photograph existing landscaping, irrigation, and hardscape that could be affected by the work. These GPS-tagged, timestamped photos establish the pre-existing condition and protect against damage disputes.
Photograph every hidden condition immediately upon discovery, before any remediation work starts — rotted rim joists, failed post bases, deteriorated flashing. The GPS-tagged, timestamped photo is the evidence that supports a change order conversation. Without it, the hidden condition claim is unverifiable.
Manifold covers the full decking workflow — existing conditions, hidden conditions during demo, framing stages, and photo-required completion punch lists. It starts at $16/user/month with no seat minimums, works offline, and exports PDF reports. Orbit Measure on the Photo+Scan plan captures measurable 3D models of existing structures.
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