A new deck can improve the look of your home, but it takes some planning to build. You will need to get estimates from several contractors and do your homework. For professional help, contact Nashville Deck Builders.
If you want to add a deck to your home, it’s important to set a budget for the project. A lot of factors can impact your deck building costs, including location, materials, and whether you hire a professional contractor or DIY. The following tips can help you build a budget and make informed decisions during the process. 
The most significant cost factor for a new deck is labor. It usually accounts for about two-thirds of the total estimate, with the remaining one-third being material costs. If you are planning on hiring a contractor, be sure to ask for a breakdown of their fees so that you can compare estimates. This will also help you identify areas where you may be able to save money by cutting out optional features or amenities that can be added later.
Labor costs are influenced by the complexity of the deck design and the local market rates. More complex designs require more time and expertise, which translates into higher construction costs. Labor expenses also fluctuate based on seasonal demand, with higher rates typically seen during peak construction seasons. You can reduce labor expenses by choosing a simple design and opting for standard deck materials like treated wood rather than exotic hardwoods.
Another way to reduce costs is to look for discounts or second-hand materials. For instance, you can find used decking boards for much less than the cost of new ones. You can also buy decking materials from charity organizations that sell them at a discount to raise funds. These donations often come with warranties and guarantees, which can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Another way to lower the overall cost of a deck is to choose a low-maintenance material such as vinyl or composite. These options are sturdier than traditional wood and don’t need staining or painting. However, they do have their drawbacks, such as being more expensive and prone to cracking or warping over time. If you want to add a touch of style to your deck, consider opting for a natural wood finish that can be easily maintained with a little oil and wax.
Design
Deck design is an important part of the deck building process, and should include considerations for both functionality and aesthetics. Ideally, your deck should integrate with the architectural design of your home to create a harmonious transition from indoor to outdoor spaces. This can be accomplished by choosing materials and colors that complement your home’s architectural style, integrating patios or other outdoor structures, and designing stairs that are easy to navigate. Other factors to consider are privacy and boundaries, the sun’s movement throughout the day, and potential additions like a hot tub.
The main components of a deck include footings, beams, posts, and stairs. For footings, you’ll want to choose a material that is durable and low maintenance. Wood is an excellent choice for deck footings, and it can be easily stained or treated to resist rot and insects. Composite materials are another option, and they offer a variety of benefits, including longevity and resistance to moisture.
Posts are usually made of either pressure-treated pine or a composite material. Cosby says that composites are becoming more popular due to their durability, low maintenance, and affordability. However, wood is still the most common option, and it can be made from a number of different species, including redwood, cedar, and ipe.
Once the posts are in place, it’s time to build the rest of the deck. This is where the planning process really comes into play. First, you’ll need to determine the size of your deck and how much it will cost. You’ll also need to plan for any pre-work, such as clearing or excavation work, before beginning construction.
You’ll also need to determine the girder size based on the tributary load of your deck. For example, 2×6 treated posts can be used up to 8’ high, while 6×6 treated posts are okay up to 20’ high. For decks above this height, you’ll need to consult a professional engineer for assistance.
Once you’ve determined the size of your deck, it’s time to figure out how you’ll use it. Whether you’ll be entertaining guests or relaxing, it’s important to think about how you’ll use the space and plan accordingly. For example, if you’ll be dining outdoors, make sure to include seating for at least eight people.
Materials
When building a deck, you need to have the right materials to get the job done. There are a variety of materials available, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Wood, for example, provides a natural and rustic aesthetic to your outdoor space while offering a sense of warmth and authenticity. However, it can be expensive and difficult to maintain over time. Other options like composites and aluminum offer a sleeker look while being more durable and low-maintenance.
The right material for a deck depends on the climate in which you live. For example, Seattle’s damp environment is ideal for decking made of cedar and redwood, which are naturally resistant to rot and insects. Other softwoods that are popular include pressure-treated pine and fir. Hardwoods are also a great option, especially ipe and mahogany. However, they are typically more expensive than softwoods and need to be treated with water-repellent coatings or staining.
If you want to save money, consider using a less-expensive hardwood like cypress or pressure-treated pine for the deck frame and railings. These woods are inexpensive and can withstand rot and insects better than other types of lumber. The downside is that they may not last as long as a more durable hardwood like redwood or cedar.
Aside from wood, you need a variety of tools to build a deck. These include a circular saw, power drill and drill bits, hammer, nailer, sander and a miter box. When choosing your tools, make sure you choose the ones that are appropriate for the size of the deck you are building. It is also important to invest in a safety helmet and eye protection as you work with wood.
While wood remains the most popular choice for decking, it does not offer the same durability as other materials. Composite and polymer materials, which are made of a mix of wood fibers and plastic, offer resistance to moisture, insects, and ultraviolet light. They are also lightweight and come in a wide range of colors and styles, making them easier to integrate into your home’s décor.
Contractors
When it comes to finding the best contractor for your project, you’ll want to select one who demonstrates good listening skills and can interpret your vision. You should also pay attention to how responsive and clear they are during the quoting process as this is an important indicator of how well they’ll communicate with you throughout the construction phase.
A skilled and experienced deck builder can help you achieve a beautiful and functional outdoor space. They can assist you with the design, material selection, and permitting process. They can even suggest creative solutions that may improve the aesthetics of your space.
Professional builders offer cost-efficient services. Their expertise can reduce the cost of materials by minimizing waste and ensuring that the deck is built according to your specifications. They can also help you navigate complex regulatory requirements and obtain the necessary permits. In addition, their efficiency minimizes the risk of costly mistakes and delays.
When selecting a contractor, request pictures of their previous work and examine the quality of craftsmanship. Look for a consistent level of workmanship, including the precision of cuts and smoothness of finishes. You’ll also want to consider the safety features of the deck. For example, stairs without guardrails can be dangerous, and open decks without shade are susceptible to sunburn.
Contractors should have the proper licensing, insurance, and certifications to operate in your area. Check their websites to find this information and also review online reviews. The more positive testimonials a company has, the better.
It’s also a good idea to ask about the types of projects the contractors have completed in the past and how satisfied their customers were with their work. Look for a website that displays photos and testimonials from happy clients.
In peak seasons, like late spring and summer, contractors’ schedules fill up fast. However, during off-peak times like fall or winter, they might be able to take on more projects at lower rates. Additionally, building your deck during off-seasons can also minimize the impact of foot traffic and construction equipment on surrounding landscaping.
