Decks outside are an evident way to make your home appear larger. Everyone is concerned about the cost of composite decking before installing it in their outside space.
A 10×10-foot outdoor deck costs approximately $2,200 to build. Building a 14×20-foot deck costs $6,200. A 20-foot-long, 20-foot-wide deck costs $8,800.
A deck outside costs around $22 per square foot. The type of wood chosen, the size of the deck, and the quality of construction all influence the cost. Chairs and steps are examples of built-in alternatives.
The deck costs per square foot
Building a deck costs $22 per square foot. Most homeowners spend between $4,200 and $10,000. Building a deck with inexpensive materials costs $13 per square foot. A deck made from high-quality materials costs $32 per square foot.
For example, the materials used to build the deck have a considerable impact on the entire cost. The person creating your deck must choose the best material for your needs. The cost of hiring personnel to build the deck will also influence its price. Labor expenses vary between $8 to $20 per square foot, based on the size of the deck, materials used, degree of construction, area, and other factors. How much do deck building materials cost?
Outdoor decks in the United States are constructed from one of three materials: pressure-treated wood, hardwood, or composite decking. The figures in this article are averages. The exact price per square foot may differ depending on where you situate your outdoor living space.
Pressure treated wood
Wood decking treated with pressure is $6 per square foot. It is also the most popular and inexpensive alternative. Mold, insects, and rot cannot grow on it, and it meets people’s basic requirements.
Advantages and disadvantages of pressure-treated wood
Pine is typically utilized in its construction. Which is prone to cracking and twisting over time and requires constant maintenance.
When the deck is wet, metal fittings are used since it cannot withstand water. Fasteners, frames, galvanized nails and screws, and other metals are all susceptible to corrosion. If the deck undergoes frequent repairs to maintain 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 to keep it in good condition.
Cost of Wood Decks
The materials needed to build a deck out of natural wood range between $3 and $15 per square foot. Wood decks are elegant and popular, but they require extra care, such as staining and polishing on a regular basis. These are the most popular wood trim options.
How Much Does Cedar Cost?
Cedar decking costs $4 to $8 per square foot, depending on grade. Cedar trees are naturally resistant to weather, insects, and rot. Sanding, sealing, and coloring are all regular maintenance treatments.
Pros
- Cedar is a cost-effective material for decking.
- Termites and other insects that devour wood are naturally resistant.
- Cedar is easy to stain and finish, and maintains its shape over time.
Cons
- However, cedar decking is not as durable as other trees and is susceptible to scratches and dents.
- Each year, the wood needs to be sanded, stained, and sealed.
Cost of redwood decking
The most common wood used to build decks is redwood decking, which costs $7 per square foot. To emphasize, it requires regular maintenance to function effectively.
Pros
- Redwood is half the cost of composite lumber.
- Mahogany can be effectively stained or painted.
- Mahogany is naturally resistant to insects and fire.
- Redwood is exceptionally robust and difficult to bend.
Cons
- Mahogany decks require frequent staining and treatment to maintain their longevity.
- Mold and UV damage are probable.
Cost of Composite Decking
Composite decks are typically priced between $10 and $15 per square foot. In most cases, it is slightly more expensive than hardwood flooring. Composite decking can meet the needs of most people since it looks like real wood and has a surface texture close to natural wood grain. Composite decking is created by mixing reclaimed plastic and wood fibers in a unique manner. It can also assist protect the environment by reducing plastic trash.
Pros of a Composite Deck
- Composite decks require less maintenance.
- Composite wood is stable and does not split.
- This item contains no chemicals that may corrode metal fasteners.
- Composite decking comes in a variety of hues.
- Composite materials do not require sealing or staining.
- Some composites can function as “hollow” planks, allowing wires or audio cords to pass through the center.
Cons of Composite Decks
- Unlike wood decks, which may be sanded, this product does not quickly return to its previous gloss.
- This costs somewhat more than pressure-treated lumber.
Deck Installation Costs Railing
Deck railings normally cost $20 per square foot, though this might vary depending on the materials used to construct the deck. The railing will not always go around the entire deck because one side is parallel to the house.
Cost of Maintenance
Natural wood decking requires periodic repair and maintenance. Wood decks can endure 25 to 40 years if properly maintained. If you do not care for your deck properly, it may only last 10 to 15 years.
Composite Deck Brands
Trex, COOWIN, and Timbertech are common composite decking brands. However, they differ in that Trex and Timbtech composite decks are more expensive due to their support for retail sales. COOWIN’s composite deck pricing is slightly lower since they are factory direct sales, making them more ideal for customers who have a specific amount of buy.
