Budgeting for a new deck can be stressful. There are so many details to consider, and you want to make sure you can pay for your dream deck without breaking the bank! It’s best to come up with a budget plan before starting your project, so let’s go over some considerations when you budget for your deck and outdoor space.
Cost of an Average Deck (Materials & Labor)
According to Bob Vila, of This Old House, the average cost to build a new deck in the U.S. in 2022 is $7,696 and the average range is between $4,160 to $11,257. These numbers are based on factors like decking material, labor, and design.
Decking Material
The material you use for your deck plays a big part in price. Traditional wood decks are less expensive upfront, but over time, the cost of maintenance is really going to add up. Composite decking costs more initially, but it is long-lasting and requires very little upkeep, so this option will save you money in the long run.
Here is a comparison of different decking material prices:
|
Decking Material |
Cost per sqft |
|
Bamboo |
$3 – $4 |
|
Pressure-treated lumber |
$5 – $8 |
|
Cedar |
$4 – $8 |
|
Redwood |
$7 – $8 |
|
Composite |
$10 – $15 |
|
Ipe |
$10 – $15 |
Labor
According to Forbes, the average cost of labor for building a deck is between $8 and $22 per square foot. Labor prices vary based on size, materials, conditions of the area, additional features of the deck, and who you choose to do the work.
- Hiring a Contractor
It’s best to hire a contractor in the beginning stages of planning for your deck because they are qualified to give you the best advice on layout, design, materials, etc. You want to get written estimates from at least three contractors before deciding. Local contractors are better because they will be easier to reach if there are any problems in the future. You want to check their references and look at some of their past work. You should also check to see if they are insured and bonded.
- DIY
If you want a deck with a very simple and straightforward design, you may consider cutting the labor costs by making it a DIY project. There are quite a few deck design options that can be done by someone with little prior experience.
Design
Deck designs are going to vary in price due to things like materials required, how complicated installation is, and how long it will take to complete. Here are four of the most popular deck designs:
Attached Platform Deck ($)
This deck sits at ground level but is still attached to your house. This is a great option for a home that has a first floor at ground level. This is also the cheapest option because it does not require stairs, posts, or railings, and it could possibly be a DIY project for someone with experience. If you choose to have a professional install it, it could cost around $2,200.
Raised Deck ($$)
This is the style that sits just a few feet off the ground, with railings and stairs. It’s a great option for homes with a first level that sits slightly above ground level. This will require more material and labor than a platform deck. On average, a raised deck costs around $30 to $60 per square foot.
Floating or Detached Deck ($$)
These decks are not attached to a building and can be built anywhere on a property. Since they are not attached to your home, they need more support posts to keep them secure.
Multi-Level Deck ($$$)
A multi-level deck is a series of several separate decks on individual levels that are connected by stairways. These are very expensive because they require more material and labor than standard decks. A professional is required for this job and you should expect to pay at least $20,000 based on the size and material you choose for your deck.
Railing & Other Features
There are a lot of additional features you should consider such as fastener systems, railing, deck skirting, a roof, outdoor living space accessories, or demolishing an old deck, which can cost anywhere between $500 to $2,000 if done professionally.
Based on local building codes and the type of deck you choose, you may consider deck railing. There are so many different railing options out there. Cable railing, aluminum railing, wood railing, glass railing, composite railing, vinyl, or PVC railing. Ordering railing can be confusing. Warehouse ‘71’s Comprehensive Railing Purchase Guide will walk you through the railing basics and how to order the right railing components for your project.
Adding Value
The average return on investment of a deck is 60%-70%, however there are many factors that can affect these numbers. Check out our blog article, How Building a Deck Can Increase Your Home’s Return on Investment, to learn more!
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How We Can Help!
Warehouse ’71 has an assortment of high-quality decking materials available at closeout prices 20-40% below retail prices. With many colors and price points to fit any budget, working with Warehouse ’71 for your deck project will save you money and increase the ROI on your new composite deck! You can go to our online store and place orders for pickup or delivery. You can even order samples by mail to make it easier to decide what color you want for your decking or railing without having to leave the house! If you’re looking for inspiration, you can check out some of our recent customer projects or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.
