Build Your Own Deck Kit (2023)

FAQs

Is it cheaper to build your own deck? ›

For basic deck designs using the least expensive lumber, the cost to build a deck yourself is about $8 to $10 per square foot (depending on the material) if you do the work yourself. You'll pay about $30 per square foot if professionally installed.

When building a deck on a budget, wood is the cheaper choice. Make sure you choose pressure-treated lumber as using untreated wood is just asking for trouble. Being exposed to rain, snow, sun, and wind will do a number on wood that is not properly weatherproofed.

In theory, a DIY new deck construction can save you money because you aren't paying a deck builder for their labor. Despite this, the real deal with DIY decking is that it can often cost homeowners more in the long run. There are many tools needed to build a deck.

Installing a deck can take time and good carpentry skills. However, with good planning building a ground level deck is something you can do yourself. With a ground level deck, there's no stairs or stair railings to make. Read on for tools, lumber ideas and general instructions on how to build a deck for your home.

The easiest deck to build is an on-grade deck. It doesn't require railings, stairs, or posts, but the essential elements of the deck—including the ledger, beams, piers, and joists—remain the same for all types of decks.

It's cheaper to build a concrete patio in terms of both the initial cost to lay a concrete patio, as well as its cost of maintenance over time. A concrete patio costs only $4 per square foot, while a deck costs roughly $6 per square foot for lower-cost pressure treated lumber.

Tips to reduce deck cost

Matching deck dimensions to standard lumber lengths and using premade concrete piers, or footings, can also reduce cost. Choose wood, but carefully: Untreated wood decks are generally the cheapest to install, but don't forget long-term costs.

Can 1 person build a deck? ›

It may seem overwhelming at first, but if you have the time and a solid understanding of basic construction principles, you can build a pretty incredible deck all on your own. Just keep in mind that while a DIY deck project might be a great option for some, it's not the solution for everyone.

The most difficult part of building a wooden deck is getting the footings and framework done. This is crucial because without properly set up footings and framework, you're compromising the safety of anyone who walks on your deck.

You will need to dig up the grass in order to create a surface that you can build. This is to stop grass from growing through the decking boards, which would prevent airflow and drainage for the decking, leading to damage on your decking boards, such as warping and cracking.

Now here are your two options for laying your decking. You can either build it directly on the ground or square the site and build it on top of risers as a floating deck. If you lay it directly on the ground, you may find that it's more susceptible to absorbing moisture and might need additional maintenance.

Pressure-treated wood also known as pt wood is a popular choice for decks, fences, and other outdoor projects because it is incredibly durable. The pressure treatment to the lumber is a chemical mixture that helps protect it from rot, decay, termite attack, and other insect damage.

When you construct a basic deck with the least expensive lumber on the market, you will probably pay between $8-10 for every square foot of area if you build it yourself. But, if you hire someone to build it, you could end up paying as much as $25 per square foot.

The average cost to build a deck is around $8,000, or $30-60 per sq. fit. Deck costs vary depending on multiple factors, including the size, style and materials used. You can reduce the costs by installing the deck yourself or choosing less-expensive decking materials.

The average cost to build a deck is $7,320, and most homeowners pay $3,920 – $10,540. However, some large and lavish decks cost as much as $17,000, and some small decks cost as little as $1,600. Expect to pay about $21 per square foot for a deck.