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How To Build A Deck In Your Backyard

Can I build a deck directly on the ground?

Yes, you can build a deck directly on the ground, but with some conditions. A deck on the ground must be built with ground-contact wood, and the substructure needs to be adapted for minimal height. Even though technically a ground level deck is elevated up to 24”, here we will discuss decks built less than 8” high.

How much does it cost to build a deck in backyard?

Costs Estimates (Averages) of Building a Deck or Patio On average, decks cost around $7,000 to build and around $35 per square foot for installation. Also, the materials for decks cost around $3 – $25 per square foot. On average, patios cost about $3,200 to build and around $10 – $20 per square foot to install.

Is it cheaper to build your own deck?

For basic deck designs using the least expensive lumber, you can expect to pay from about $8 to $10 per square foot (depending on the material) of deck area if you do the work yourself or pay about $30 per square foot if the material is professionally installed.

Can I build my deck myself?

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.

What is the cheapest way to build a deck?

Choose wood, but carefully: Untreated wood decks are generally the cheapest to install, but don’t forget long-term costs. Wood decks require yearly maintenance and deteriorate quickly if they don’t get it.

What is a floating deck?

A floating deck, also called a free standing deck, is simply a deck that’s not attached to any structure, including (of course) your house. Instead, you can put your deck’s structural members — posts, girders, and joists — on precast pier blocks set directly in the ground.

How much should a 20×20 deck cost?

New Deck Installation Cost The average homeowner spends $2,200 to build a 10×10 foot deck, $6,160 to build a 14×20 deck, and $8,800 to build a 20×20 deck. The cost to build a deck with pressure-treated wood, hardwood, or composite is about $25 per square foot, for both materials and installation.

How much does a 12×12 wood deck cost?

A deck will cost much less than adding a similar size room to your home. For example, the cost of a 12 x12 deck. A 12 x12 deck can range in cost from $2 200 to $13 000, but the average will be $6 000. Costing $40 a square foot but can be as little as $15 or as high as $85, depending on the deck’s features.

Does a deck add value to a home?

The addition of a wood deck costs an average of $13,333 and the average resale value of it is $10,083. This means homeowners could recoup about 75.6% of the cost once it’s time to sell the home. Adding a deck to your home may seem like a big expense, but it could be worth it in the future.

Can a beginner build a deck?

Decks can be single level or multi-level; they can be some of the simplest “first” projects for a beginner, or elaborate examples of sophisticated craftsmanship. Decks are quite often the first project many beginning do-it-yourselfers tackle, but it’s important to understand the basics of deck construction.

Do you need permission to build a deck?

You (Usually) Don’t Need a Permit to Build One A traditional deck is considered a modification of the house. It is also considered a raised platform that is potentially a fall hazard. This is why traditional decks need approval from the local authorities to attain building permits.

How long does it take to build a deck yourself?

The average deck runs about $7,000. You can save most of that cost by putting in some serious time and sweat equity. A 12 x 24-foot one typically requires two people to complete and will take anywhere from one to three weeks depending on experience and skill level.

Is it difficult to build a deck?

Deck construction is not as hard as you might think, and if you follow some basic guidelines it can be a great DIY project. Decks are built to add living space to a home and every one of them should be built nice and level.

Is it worth it to build a deck?

1. A deck is an overall solid investment that increases the value of your home, even in a down housing market. You can expect to recoup at least 70-80% of your building expenses when you go to sell your home.

Should a deck be level or sloped?

What slope should a deck have? The answer is it depends if the deck is solid or not. A solid deck needs to be sloped between a 1/8″ (3mm) and ¼” (6mm) per foot to encourage water drainage. Decks with properly gapped decking boards require no slope as rain will naturally run off the boards even when level.

How can I save money building a deck?

The Top 8 Ways to Save Money Building Your Deck Choose the Right Type of Deck. Make an Efficient Deck Design. Low-Cost Materials vs Maintenance-Free Materials. Shop for the Deck Sales. Off-Season Building to Save Bucks. Buy Fasteners and Hardware in Bulk. DIY Build for Definite Savings. Seal Your Deck.

What is the cost of installing a deck?

Building a deck can expand your outdoor living space and provide another gathering place for warm- weather activities. The national average cost to install a new deck is $7,696, but a typical range is $4,160 to $11,257.