Tag Archives: Deck Construction Costs

Why Are Decks So Expensive?

Why Are Decks So Expensive?

Building a deck is a significant investment that can greatly enhance your outdoor living space. However, many homeowners are surprised by the cost of deck construction. Understanding why decks can be expensive will help you make informed decisions about your project and budget accordingly. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that contribute to the high cost of deck construction.

1. Material Costs

Overview: The type of materials you choose for your deck has a major impact on the overall cost. Different materials come with varying price points, and high-quality or specialized materials tend to be more expensive.

Factors Influencing Material Costs:

  • Type of Decking: Wood, composite, PVC, and aluminum each have different costs. For example, composite and PVC decking are generally more expensive than traditional wood options but offer lower maintenance costs.
  • Quality of Materials: Higher quality materials will cost more but may offer better durability and aesthetics.

2. Labor Costs

Overview: Labor is a significant portion of the overall cost of deck construction. Skilled professionals are needed to ensure that the deck is built correctly and safely, which can be reflected in the cost.

Factors Influencing Labor Costs:

  • Complexity of Design: Custom or intricate deck designs require more time and expertise, increasing labor costs.
  • Local Labor Rates: Costs can vary based on your location and the going rates for skilled tradespeople.

3. Site Preparation and Permits

Overview: Preparing the site for deck construction can involve additional costs. This includes clearing the area, leveling the ground, and potentially dealing with drainage issues.

Factors Influencing Site Preparation Costs:

  • Site Condition: A site that requires extensive preparation or grading will cost more to prepare.
  • Permits and Inspections: Many areas require permits and inspections for deck construction, which can add to the overall cost.

With low-maintenance decks, you can say goodbye to annual sanding and staining, as these innovative materials stay looking new with minimal care.

4. Design and Customization

Overview: Customizing your deck with unique features or intricate designs can significantly increase costs. Additional elements like built-in seating, lighting, or complex shapes add to both materials and labor costs.

Factors Influencing Design Costs:

  • Custom Features: Built-in elements such as benches, fire pits, or pergolas increase the overall price.
  • Design Complexity: More elaborate designs require more detailed planning and construction, driving up costs.

5. Seasonal and Market Factors

Overview: The cost of deck construction can be influenced by market conditions and seasonal factors. Prices for materials and labor can fluctuate based on demand, availability, and time of year.

Factors Influencing Seasonal and Market Costs:

  • Material Prices: Fluctuations in the cost of raw materials can impact overall costs.
  • Seasonal Demand: During peak construction seasons, prices for labor and materials may rise due to increased demand.

6. Quality and Longevity

Overview: Investing in higher-quality materials and construction methods may result in higher upfront costs but can lead to long-term savings. High-quality decks often require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan.

Factors Influencing Quality Costs:

  • Durability: More durable materials and construction techniques can reduce future repair and maintenance costs.
  • Maintenance Needs: Low-maintenance options like composite or PVC decking may have higher initial costs but save money over time.

7. Additional Features and Upgrades

Overview: Adding additional features to your deck can significantly increase the cost. Items such as railings, stairs, and built-in lighting contribute to the overall expense.

Factors Influencing Costs of Additional Features:

  • Railing Systems: Different styles and materials for railings can vary in price.
  • Lighting and Accessories: Integrated lighting, sound systems, and other accessories add to the total cost.

Conclusion

Understanding why decks can be expensive helps in making informed decisions about your project. Material choices, labor costs, site preparation, design complexity, and additional features all play a role in the overall expense. By carefully considering these factors, you can plan and budget effectively to create a deck that enhances your outdoor space while fitting within your financial parameters.

For expert advice and professional deck construction services, contact Decks, Decks, and More Decks. We can help you navigate the costs and create a beautiful, functional deck that meets your needs and budget.

Avoid the DIY Deck Trap

DIY decking materials from large box stores are tempting because of their low price point compared to the high-grade warranty-backed materials used by professional deck companies. While the brand name is recognizable, the reality is the manufacturers have produced watered-down versions for the DIY box store customer. The result is you save more now and pay more later.

Adding a deck to your home should be viewed as an investment in your home. Good investments take the long view. Hiring a custom deck builder is the safest and wisest way to add a custom deck to your home. We’re going to take a closer look at the risks of DIY decks and how they actually cost you more than using professional-grade materials and professional deck construction companies.

DIY Decks – What Could Go Wrong?

The deck is one of the most common DIY projects. However, many things can and do go wrong with decks. There’s the footings, lack of permits, the height, quality of materials, clearance from property lines, and a lot more. One of the biggest issues comes with that attachment to your home. If it’s not attached correctly, you may find yourself dealing with water infiltration and costly damage to doors, windows, flooring, and sub-flooring.

Deck Design and Planning

Before you start sourcing your materials, you first need to design and plan your deck. Where do you want it? Is where you want it feasible? How large will it be? How tall? What kind of railing, lights, and stairs will your deck have? If you’re already overwhelmed, don’t feel bad. Designing and planning a deck is difficult. There are more variables to consider than most people realize. When you go with a professional deck builder, you know you’re getting a deck that’s going to work from a structure and aesthetic standpoint with your home. Professional deck-building companies have software that can render an accurate picture of what your deck will look like, and give you an accurate number of material costs and time to complete the project.

DIY Deck Construction

Putting all the materials together correctly to build a functional and aesthetically pleasing deck will require a massive time investment if you’re not trained in the deck building. Everyone’s time is worth something. If you want to turn your building deck into a several-month project and chip away at it after work and on the weekends, you can. However, for most people, the time commitment in fixing mistakes, making repeated trips to the hardware store, and getting people to help aren’t worth the extra resource costs that come with DIY deck construction. You will save money on materials, but spend more on everything else, and your deck will not be the same quality as a professionally built deck.

Omaha Custom Deck Builders

Give us a call today and schedule your deck build. If you’re not sure what you want, come by our showroom and see what we can offer in person. One of our deck-building experts can walk you through all of your options and give you a free quote.

(402) 690-1050