Elevate your outdoor entertaining and understand the average cost to build a new deck and how to choose the best materials
More homeowners and potential homebuyers than ever express a strong need for usable outdoor living areas. Not only can building a deck satisfies this need, but the perfect deck may also give a house an unmatched aesthetic and functionality. It also provides a fantastic return on investment.
Below, we examine different types of decks and decking components and disintegrate the average cost to build a new deck, in case you’re curious about that upfront cost. We’ll provide you with all the information you need to prepare a budget for this expensive home improvement, whether you desire a deck to entertain guests, relax, or merely add value to your house.
Factors Crucial for the Cost of a New Deck
By Square Foot
- A deck typically costs $20 to $50 per square foot. This covers both the expense of the deck stuff and the labor, with the latter accounting for anywhere between 50 percent and 70 percent of the total cost.
By Size
HomeAdvisor estimates that building a deck costs $7,732 on average across the US. However, depending on the type of foundation, labor, add-ons, and size of the deck, this cost could go up or down dramatically.
- The simplest way to estimate cost is to look at the average pricing for each decking size because deck projects are often priced per square foot; so it is understandable that a larger deck will cost more.
When examining the prices for the decking sizes, bear the following in mind:
- Labor: The prices include an estimated amount for labor. However, this can vary greatly based on the state in which you reside. If you want a more accurate deck cost estimate that takes into account your location, try using a deck cost calculator.
- Cost: Decks built of less expensive materials, including pressure-treated wood, are at the low end of the scale. Exotic hardwoods and composite decking are more opulent deck materials that fall under the higher price range.
By Labor Cost
- An average deck costs $15 to $35 per square foot to construct. Less expensive deck materials include bamboo and cedar, which require less work to build. On the opposite end of the scale, heavy and unreliable tigerwood will be more expensive.
By Material
Although there are numerous choices for decking materials on the market today, they may be divided into two groups: wood decking and composite decking.
- Composite Decking – Cost $10 – $20 per Square Foot (Materials Only)
Composite decking is generally more expensive than wood decking. One thing to keep in mind is that it also has a tendency to survive longer, approximately 30 to 50 years. This can save you money on future repair and replacement expenditures.
- Composite materials come in a range of hues, never fracture or rot, and are frequently manufactured from recycled plastics like polyethene and PVC. Additionally, they just need a semi-annual deck cleaning, which is a fairly small amount of upkeep.
- Wood Decking – Cost of $3 – $15 per Square Foot (Materials Only)
The price of wood decking differs widely according to the type of wood chosen. Tinted or lacquered natural wood decks can be any hue, and some species, like tigerwood, have beautiful natural variegation. To maintain their appearance, however, the majority of wood kinds will require routine upkeep.
Doing it Yourself vs. Hiring a Professional
A DIY deck project can cut the cost of a deck job by 50% or even more if you have construction skills. Small foot decks and decks with only one level are the simplest to construct. But, hiring a deck designer or constructor is beneficial when it comes to more difficult structures, such as floating decks or second-story decks.
Pro Tip: For maximum deck longevity, DIY builders should seal beams and bolts with butyl tape in addition to sealing their deck with a sealant. Failure to do so could result in spending more money than you originally saved on your DIY project several years down the road to repair water damage.
A deck is a great home improvement project to increase your house’s pleasure and value. Your new addition provides the ideal space for socializing, exercising, soaking up the sun, or even getting some alone time. You will have ample time to bring loved ones over to celebrate your new construction because a well-built and kept deck lasts 20 years or longer.
