Decks outside are an undeniable method to make your home feel larger. Everyone is concerned about the cost of composite decking before creating it for their outside space.
A 10×10-foot outdoor deck costs around $2,200 to build. It costs $6,200 to create a 14×20-foot deck. A 20-foot-long by 20-foot-wide deck costs $8,800.
A deck outside costs approximately $22 per square foot. However, the cost of the deck is determined by the type of wood used, its size, and the quality of construction. Built-in alternatives include chairs and steps.
The average deck cost per square foot
Building a deck costs $22 per square foot. Most homeowners spend between $4,200 and $10,000. Building a deck with low-cost materials costs $13 per square foot. A deck built with high-quality materials costs $32 per square foot.
That instance, the materials chosen to build the deck have a significant impact on the overall cost. The individual creating your deck must select the greatest material for your needs. The cost of the deck will also be determined by the cost of hiring workers to build it. Labor costs range from $8 to $20 per square foot, depending on the size of the deck, materials used, level of construction, area, and other considerations. How Much Does Deck Building Materials Cost?
In the United States, outdoor decks are built using three types of materials: pressure-treated wood, hardwood, and composite decking. The numbers in this article are averages. The exact price per square foot may vary based on where you locate your outdoor living area.
Pressure-treated wood
Wood decking treated with pressure costs $6 per square foot. It is also the most popular and the least expensive option. Mould, insects, and rot cannot grow on it, and it fulfils people’s basic needs.
Pros and Cons of Pressure-Treated Wood
Typically, pine is used to construct it. Which is susceptible to cracking and twisting over time and must be carefully maintained.
When the deck is wet, metal fittings are utilised since it does not withstand water. Fasteners, frames, galvanised nails and screws, and other metals can corrode. If regular repairs are performed to the deck to ensure its structural integrity.
If you use these deck boards to build your outdoor deck, you will need to sand, seal, and stain it on a regular basis as part of the maintenance process.
Cost of Wood Decks
The materials required to make a deck out of natural wood cost between $3 and $15 per square foot. Wood decks are attractive and popular, but they require additional maintenance, such as staining and polishing on a regular basis. These are the most popular wood varieties for trim.
How Much Does Cedar Cost?
Decking made of cedar costs between $4 and $8 per square foot, depending on grade. Cedar is a tree that is inherently resistant to weather, insects, and rot. Regular maintenance procedures include sanding, sealing, and colouring.
Pros
- Cedar is one of the least expensive materials used to make decks.
- Weathering, rotting, and wood-eating insects, such as termites, are inherently resistant.
- Cedar is easy to stain and finish, and it retains its shape over time.
Cons
- However, cedar decking does not endure as long as other trees and is prone to scratches and dents.
- Each year, the wood must be sanded, stained, and sealed.
Cost of Redwood Decking
The most common wood used to make decks is redwood decking, which costs $7 per square foot. To reiterate, it requires frequent maintenance to maintain working properly.
Pros
- Redwood is half the cost of composite lumber.
- Mahogany can be effectively stained or painted.
- Mahogany is inherently resistant to insects and fire.
- Redwood is extremely strong, making it difficult to bend.
Cons
- A mahogany deck will not last long unless it is stained and treated on a regular basis.
- Mould and UV damage are possible.
Cost of Composite Decking
Composite decks typically cost between $10 and $15 per square foot. In most circumstances, it costs slightly more than hardwood flooring. Composite decking can fulfil the needs of most people because it resembles real wood and has a surface texture similar to natural wood grain. Composite decking is manufactured by combining reclaimed plastic and wood fibres in a unique way. It can also help safeguard the environment and reduce plastic waste.
Pros of a Composite Deck
- Composite decks do not require much maintenance.
- Composite wood does not break down or split.
- This item has no chemicals that could corrode metal fasteners.
- There are various colours of composite decking.
- Composite materials do not need to be sealed or stained.
- Some composites can be used as “hollow” planks, which allow wires or audio cords to pass through the middle.
Cons of Composite Decks
- Because it cannot be sanded, the product does not return to its original sheen as soon as a wood deck.
- This costs somewhat more than pressure-treated lumber.
Cost of Installing a Deck Railing
Deck railings typically cost $20 per square foot, however, this varies depending on the materials used to build the deck. The railing will not always go around the entire deck because one side will be parallel to the house.
Cost of Maintenance
Natural wood decking requires annual repairs and upkeep. Wood decks can last between 25 and 40 years if properly cared for. If you don’t maintain your deck properly, it may only last 10 to 15 years.
Composite Deck Brands
Common brands of composite decking include Trex, COOWIN, and Timbertech. But they are also differentiated, Trex, and Timbtech composite decks are relatively more expensive as they support retail sales. COOWIN’s composite deck price is a bit lower because they are factory direct sales, more suitable for people who have a certain amount of purchase.
