Building a deck expands your outdoor living space and increases home value.
However, before building a deck, it’s essential to understand the costs involved, including materials, labor, and additional features.
Fortunately, by the end of this article, you should know the different factors that impact deck materials cost.
Factors That Influence The Cost of Deck Materials
There are a variety of factors that influence the cost of deck materials. For example:
Deck Size
The size of the deck is one of the most significant factors affecting the overall cost. Smaller decks, such as an 8×10 foot structure, typically cost between $2,400 and $4,800. Larger decks, like those measuring 16×20 feet, can range from $9,600 to $19,200. Generally, the cost per square foot varies from $30 to $60, which makes it crucial to determine the ideal size based on your budget and space requirements.
Deck Material
The right deck material influences initial costs and long-term maintenance. Common options include:
Pressure-Treated Wood
This is an affordable choice that costs between $3 and $6 per square foot. However, it requires regular maintenance, which can increase costs over time.
Composite Decking
Prices for composite decking range from $5 to $13 per square foot.
Hardwoods
Ipe, Cumaru: Hardwoods like Ipe cost between $7 and $8 per linear foot, while Cumaru ranges from $4.25 to $5.72 per linear foot.
PVC Decking
PVC decking is a high-performance, low-maintenance option that resists mold and insets. Prices typically range from $5 to $12 per square foot.
Deck Tiles
Deck tiles are available in various materials, including wood and composite, and typically cost between $6 and $10 per square foot.
Labor Costs
Labor costs for professional deck installation typically range from $15 to $35 per square foot, depending on the project’s complexity and location. DIY projects can reduce labor expenses, but require a significant amount of skill and time, which is why we always recommend working with a contractor.
Design Complexity
The complexity of your deck design will also impact the cost. Features such as multi-level decks, built-in seating, and elaborate railings can increase both material and labor costs. For example, a second-story deck can cost between $50 and $60 per square foot due to the need for reinforced foundations and additional safety measures.
Benefits of Different Decking Materials
Before choosing a deck material, you should consider the benefits of each option.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance and durable option. This material mimics the look of natural wood without the upkeep, and resists fading, staining, and scratching. It’s also eco-friendly, as many composite products are made from recycled materials.
Thermowood®
Thermowood® is a thermally modified wood that offers enhanced durability and stability. This process makes the wood more resistant to decay and insects, to provide a sustainable and long-lasting decking option. Thermowood® is an excellent choice for those seeking an eco-friendly and low-maintenance deck material.
Hardwood Decking
Hardwoods are renowned for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Ipe, for example, boasts a lifespan of 75-100 years and exhibits exceptional resistance to scratches and dents. Cumaru, also known as Brazilian Teak, provides comparable durability at a more cost-friendly price.
PVC Decking
PVC decking is another low-maintenance deck material, which makes it an ideal choice for areas exposed to the elements. PVC decking is available in various colors and styles for both durability and appearance.
Deck Tiles
Deck tiles, a more modern option, are excellent for those seeking a quick and easy deck installation. These tiles are available in wood and composite materials, to provide flexibility and ease of installation. They are perfect for DIY projects and can be used to create beautiful outdoor spaces with minimal effort.
Estimating Your Deck Materials Costs
To help you budget effectively, we’ve created a comprehensive cost estimation chart, which helps you to estimate the costs of building your deck based on different materials and deck sizes.
Notes:
1. Deck Size Costs: Calculations are based on average costs per square foot for each material.
2. Additional Costs: These costs are average estimates for various additional features that might be required or desired for a deck project.
3. Maintenance: Maintenance costs can vary widely depending on the material chosen. For example, pressure-treated wood requires regular staining and sealing, while composite decking is low maintenance.
Usage:
1. Calculate Basic Deck Costs: Multiply the size of your deck by the cost range of your chosen material.
2. Include Additional Features: Add the estimated costs for any additional features you plan to include in your deck design.
Example Calculation
For a 300 sq. ft. deck using composite decking:
Basic Cost: 300 sq. ft. x $5 – $13 per sq. ft. = $1,500 – $3,900
Additional Features (e.g. custom railings for 50 linear feet): 50 ft. x $20 – $60 per linear ft. = $1,000 – $3,000
Total Estimated Cost: $2,500 – $6,900
This cost estimation chart provides a comprehensive overview of potential costs involved in building a deck in order to help users plan their budgets effectively while considering different materials and additional features.
Additional Deck Materials Cost Considerations
However, when you’re building a deck there are some other additional considerations that could impact your overall costs. Such as:
Alt Text: an image of additional deck materials cost considerations
Permits and Inspections
Building a deck can sometimes require permits and inspections to ensure compliance with local building codes. Permit, for example, costs can range from $225 to $500—depending on your location and the size of the deck.
Foundation and Support
Decks that need to support additional weight, such as a hot tub, require reinforced foundations, which increases the overall cost. Raised decks also need additional beams and footings to ensure safety and stability.
Maintenance Costs
Different materials have varying maintenance requirements. For example, pressure-treated wood needs regular staining and sealing, while composite, thermally modified wood, and PVC require minimal maintenance. Choosing low-maintenance materials can reduce long-term costs and effort.
Climate Considerations
The local climate can affect the choice of materials and the depth of foundations needed. Areas with harsh winters may require deeper footings to prevent frost heave, which adds to the overall cost of building a deck.
Build with The Best Deck Materials From Lumber Plus
When it comes to the cost of materials to build a deck, every deck is different. Although our resources on this blog are helpful, they can only be used as an estimate guide to understand much deck materials cost.
However, if you’re looking into the cost of decking materials, you can’t go wrong contacting Lumber Plus!
Whether you prefer the low-maintenance benefits of composite decking, the durability of Thermowood®, the timeless beauty of hardwoods like Ipe and Cumaru, or the versatility of PVC and deck tiles, we have the perfect solution for your outdoor space!
Contact us today for more information.
