How To Build An Affordable Deck

Your dream of hosting parties or having an exclusive and relaxing place outdoors where you can relax can come at a huge cost: a deck installation. The price you need to pay to construct a small deck, and even a patio, on your outdoor space or garden varies depending on several factors like the style, size, your location, privacy needs, and who will build it. If you know the amount you have to pay ahead of time and the ways you can use to control your expenses, you will be able to install a deck in your backyard without going over budget. Listed below are a few tips you need to know about the best small deck ideas on a budget for this year, 2018.

How Much Does It Cost?

As mentioned earlier, there are several factors that affect the price of building a deck including the site or space preparation and the level of finish. Apart from that, the fee of the professional contractor who will help you with the construction almost always takes up a big chunk of the total expenses. The total cost will also be affected by other components like the supplies, labor, and even the slope of your property, furniture you wish to include and the climate of the location. Knowing not only the best timber decking ideas, deck railing ideas, and deck lighting ideas but also a good overview of how much you’ll spend will prevent sticker shock.

Reducing The Cost

Keeping the design of your deck simple by getting rid of fancy design features will make a huge difference in the cost. However, you will realize big savings if you reduce the deck’s overall size. Additionally, matching the dimensions of decking boards to regular lumber lengths and utilizing premade footings or concrete piers can also help in cutting costs.

Choose Your Wood Carefully

Generally speaking, untreated wood decks are by far the cheapest option among today’s typical deck ideas. However, you also need to consider the long-term costs. Decks made of real wood need regular maintenance to prevent premature deterioration and that means additional expenses. Investing in a composite decking board is highly recommended if you want to save time and money in the long run, especially if you are planning to stay in your home for a very long time. Another good reason to choose composite wood or co-extrusion timber is its environmental sustainability. It will give you a peace of mind whenever you walk out on your yard because you know you have made a decision that is environmentally friendly. If you choose composite decking boards, you can congratulate yourself since you know for a fact that your deck is made of recyclable materials.

Choose The Right Time

A lot of homeowners decide to build decks during warmer months so they can host parties and even build and outdoor deck kitchen. Therefore, you may be able to save some cash if you install your deck in the offseason. Since there are fewer jobs competing for the contractor’s time, these experts may be able to offer you lower labor rates and quicker scheduling in an effort to gain your business.

Go The DIY Route

Obtaining permits, following building codes, and correctly installing the foundation supports for the decking boards are usually above the skills of a regular DIYer. In many instances, hiring a professional to construct a deck will provide you with peace of mind. However, if you are confident that you can build the deck on your own or with the help of your friends who have skills in carpentry, then going the diy route can help you save a significant amount of cash. There are also instances when it is better to contact and hire a professional, just for tasks that you think are too hard for you. You can let the experts handle complicated parts and you can take on easier jobs. For instance, you can let the professionals deal with the installation of an unfinished wood deck and you can take on simpler tasks like painting, staining, and sealing.