In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, homeowners are on the lookout for ways to add functional exterior space to their properties. One of the best ways to accomplish this is through a deck addition, as a deck is a stylish way to step outside, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the exterior views. But what will it cost to construct a deck?
Many contractors estimate the cost of a deck addition to be anywhere between $20 and $50 per square foot. For a standard size wood deck, expect to pay around $12,000 for the total project.
Although these ballpark figures can help you estimate the cost of a deck project, there are many factors–such as materials used, cost of local labor, and size of the project–that will ultimately influence the final price tag. Keep reading for everything you need to know about estimating the price of a deck construction project!
The Average Cost of Building a Deck
According to Remodeling Magazine in their annual Cost vs. Value Report, the national average cost for a deck addition in 2022 was about $12,000 for a basic wood deck or around $15,000 for a composite deck.
Is Building a Deck Expensive?
A deck addition may seem expensive up front, but there are several important points to consider:
- A deck essentially adds square footage to your house, providing you with some fresh air and a change of scenery on your very own property.
- Most deck projects will cost between $20 to $50 per square foot. When you consider that a regular home addition can cost as much as $400 per square foot, a deck addition is a very affordable means of adding usable space to your home.
- Deck projects can vary widely in total cost depending on the square footage added, quality of materials chosen, shading devices included, and type of railing.
The last important point to remember is that adding a deck can significantly improve the resale value of your property. Circling back to the Cost vs. Value Report, deck projects recouped well over 60% of project costs in 2022. Not only will a new deck help you enjoy your property, but it will allow you to up your asking price in the event you ever need to list your home.
Is It Easier to Build a Deck or Hire a Contractor?
There is no denying that we are in the heart of a DIY renaissance. With unlimited blog and video self-help resources online, homeowners are breaking out the hard hats and power tools like never before.
Decks are one of the most popular DIY projects in the realm of home renovation. As some homeowners view them as more of an add-on than an essential element of the home, they tend to have a bit more confidence in attempting a deck addition without the help of a professional.
While there are some innovative composite boards and fastening systems that can make a DIY project doable, it is probably not advisable to attempt a DIY deck addition unless you have a solid background in construction or carpentry. Some factors to keep in mind when deciding between building a deck or hiring a professional contractor:
- Rework costs – many DIY home improvement projects hit a snag for a multitude of reasons (error, not enough help, etc.), causing homeowners to get frustrated and hire a professional after the fact. At this point, the aborted DIY project becomes a sunk cost that adds to the overall price of the deck addition.
- Safety – you really should not be attempting anything other than a ground-level deck addition as a DIY project. Even then, you will not be getting the safety assurance you would receive from a professional contractor.
- Efficiency – many DIY enthusiasts forget to factor in the cost of their own labor when arriving at a total. If it is truly a hobby project, more power to you. However, if you are trying to build a deck on your own to save money, remember that your time is valuable, and contractors can get the work done in a fraction of the time that won’t leave areas of your home inaccessible.
In addition, some states, counties, and municipalities have strict deck regulations that can limit what you can and cannot do. A contractor will have a clear understanding of all building codes that will reduce legwork prior to building.
Where Is Building a Deck Most Expensive?
Unsurprisingly, building a deck is most expensive along the Pacific Coast. Homeowners can expect to pay about 25% more than the national average in this region. In addition to the overall higher cost of living, the area imposes greater permit fees for construction projects than other areas of the country.
The New England region is another area with higher costs for deck additions, due to a high cost of living and the need to winterize and build only with specific materials.
The west south central region of Texas and the bordering Gulf Coast states is one of the most affordable regions for a deck, with most standard projects coming in at least 10% below the national average.
What Does It Cost to Build a 20X20 Deck?
Although there are numerous factors that contribute to the cost of a deck and cause price fluctuation–seasonal changes in material prices, local market, labor, railing, pergola additions–the rough estimate is that a deck will cost about $20 to $50 per square foot to build.
This would put the price of a 20X20 deck roughly between $8,000 and $20,000 for the total cost of the project.
Building a Deck Near San Antonio?
So there you have it: everything there is to know about the cost of building a new deck. For standard size and scope projects, expect to pay between $10,000 to $15,000 in all, with some obvious fluctuations possible based on materials used and trends in the local market.
With this in mind, if you are in the market for a deck project in the San Antonio region and need help getting started, contact French Custom Outdoor Concepts today for a consultation!
