Cost for Building a Deck

Foundation, Materials and Hardware

• The bulk of a deck's cost comes from the materials used and the foundation necessary to support the deck. Most decks are made from wood or composite materials. They can range from less expensive options, such as pine, to costly materials, such as ipe. Think carefully about your choice. Your budget may only allow for less expensive options, but a long-lasting, albeit more expensive, choice could lower your costs over the life of the deck. Raised decks that require railings also carry additional costs. There will be a price difference, for example, from wooden rails to the more expensive metal rails, such as wrought iron. The major costs of new decks often come from the required supports, joists and foundation necessary to hold up your design choice. Yet another cost comes from the hardware, such as nails and screws, used. The amount of materials and hardware needed will depend on the size and scope of your deck plans.

Extra Features

• The most basic deck will be a wooden square slightly raised off the ground and requiring few or no stairs and no railing. Most decks, however, are more involved. They can be raised high off the ground, which adds a supports cost to the project. Railings, stairs and security gates all also add extra charges. Then there may be special design features, such as a sunken middle or being built around a fire pit or spa tub.

Professional Work

• Unless you're an expert in deck building, it's highly recommended that you hire a professional to design and build your new deck. Not only does this ensure craftsmanship and safety, but it usually comes with guarantees about the work and warranties. Your professional costs may include a general contractor, who will subcontract out for other necessary services, such as an architect and a design crew. Or, you may hire these professionals piecemeal. The cost of hiring professionals depends on the workers' experience level, your geographic location and, possibly, the time of year you have your deck built.

Permits

• Many jurisdictions require permits for building projects. The costs include the actual permit, which will vary by jurisdiction. You also may need to pay a professional to attend a zoning board meeting to testify about the project. Again, these requirements vary town by town. Some or all of these costs may be built into a general contractor fee.

Cost Comparison

• Give how widely costs can vary for building a new deck, get estimates from at least three builders or contractors. This gives you a better idea of how much area professionals will charge and the average cost in your region. Double-check if the professional guarantees to complete the work within a certain cost percentage of the estimate, so you aren't faced with any surprises when you receive the final bill. Remember that online pricing and building calculators can become outdated, as construction costs can fluctuate widely based on international construction material demand.