If you’re planning to add a deck to your house and want to know how much it will cost, you’ve come to the right place! Decks are a popular addition to many homes, providing a space to relax, entertain friends and relatives, and enjoy the outdoors. But before you start planning your deck project, it’s essential to understand the cost of building a deck.
Common Factors that Affect the Cost of Building a Deck
The cost of building a deck can vary widely depending on factors such as size, materials, and features. In this post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the cost of adding a deck to your home, so you can make an informed decision and create a beautiful outdoor living space that fits your budget.
Deck Size
Deck size is a significant factor that affects the overall cost of building a deck for a home. The larger the deck, the more materials and labor are required to build it, resulting in a higher cost. Generally, the average size of a deck ranges from 200 to 500 square feet, and the cost per square foot decreases as the deck size increases.
However, the size of the deck ultimately depends on your personal preference and the available space in your yard.
Deck Materials
Deck materials significantly affect the overall price of building a deck for a home. Different materials have varying costs per square foot, with some being more expensive than others. For instance, natural hardwoods like cedar and redwood are generally more expensive than pressure-treated lumber.
Similarly, composite and PVC decking can be more expensive upfront but require less maintenance in the long run, making them cost-effective over time. Therefore, the choice of deck materials significantly affects the overall cost of building a deck.
Deck Features
Deck features will also play a role in the overall price of building a deck for a home. The more features you add, the higher the cost of construction. For example, adding built-in seating, a fire pit, or a pergola will increase the overall cost of building the deck. Additionally, the quality of the features you add can also impact the deck cost. More high-end or custom features can add a significant amount to the overall cost of the project.
Location
Location is another factor that affects the overall price of building a deck for a home. Factors such as local building codes, accessibility, and local labor costs can impact the cost of building the deck. For example, if the location of the deck requires significant excavation or site preparation, it can add to the overall cost of the project.
Similarly, if the local labor costs are higher, it can increase the cost of hiring contractors to build the deck. Therefore, the location of the deck significantly affects the overall cost of building a deck.
Average Cost to Build a Deck
The average cost to build a deck in the US is around $8,000, with most homeowners spending roughly between $5,000 to $25,000. However, the actual cost can vary widely depending on various factors, as discussed above.
To give you a better idea of the costs, the average cost of building a 20 x 20 deck is around $14,000.
Cost per Square Foot
The national average cost per square foot to build a deck ranges from $15 to $60. And the average cost is likely around $21 per square foot. It’s important to keep in mind that the cost can vary significantly based on the location, complexity of the project, and other factors. Therefore,
it’s recommended that you get multiple quotes from different contractors and do thorough research before embarking on a deck-building project.
Decking Material Cost per Square Foot to Build a New Deck
As mentioned, the type of materials will greatly affect the cost of building a deck. Here’s a rough estimate of the price range of different materials for the cost of new deck.
· Pressure-treated lumber: $2.50 – $5.00
· Cedar: $4.00 – $8.00
· Redwood: $7.50 – $12.00
· Composite: $6.00 – $12.00
· PVC: $8.00 – $14.00
The law of supply and demand will always prevail. So, check out all your options before choosing one material because you may save money, or spend more, depending on your chosen material.
Labor Cost per Square Foot to Build a Deck
The labor cost per square foot to build a new deck can vary widely depending on the project’s complexity, the location, and the experience of the deck builder. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $8 to $30 per square foot in labor costs.
For simple, straightforward deck projects, the labor cost per square foot may be on the lower end of the range, while more complex projects that require custom features or significant site preparation may have higher labor and material cost to build a deck.
Additional Costs to Consider
Aside from those already mentioned, there are other things to consider that will increase the cost of building a deck. These can include, but definitely not be limited to, building permits, foundation costs, railing costs, stair costs, extras like lighting, and maybe some built-in seating.
Why Hiring a Contractor is a Good Idea When You Want to Build a New Deck
The cost of adding a deck can be significantly less if you hire the right contractor for several reasons.
· Experience and Expertise: An expert deck contractor has the skills and experience to build a deck efficiently and correctly. They can identify potential problems and offer solutions, saving you time and money in the long run.
· Cost Savings: A contractor can help you save money by sourcing high-quality materials at a lower cost than what you would pay at a retail store. Additionally, they have the necessary tools and equipment to complete the job efficiently, reducing the overall cost of the project.
· Time Savings: Building a deck can be a time-consuming project, especially if you don’t have experience in construction. Hiring a contractor can save you time by completing the job quickly and efficiently. They can also take care of obtaining permits and scheduling inspections, which can be time-consuming tasks.
· Warranty and Guarantee: A reputable contractor offers a warranty and guarantee on their work, giving you peace of mind that the job will be done correctly.
Hiring a reputable deck contractor is a sure way to get that dream deck you’ve been waiting for. They can save you money, time, and yes, mental energy, while ensuring that the deck is built correctly and to your specifications.
