Calculating decking costs

An easy, cost-effective way to extend your living space outdoors is to add a deck. You can enjoy cooking and eating, relaxing, hosting a party or barbeque and many other activities on your deck. Plus, it definitely adds value to your home. It’’s easy to find a reason to build a deck, but how do you work out how much it’’s going to cost?

Calculating decking costs involves a number of factors such as design choices, materials, labour, site preparation, any permits and ongoing maintenance. Here’s some info to help you get started.

Design choices

Simple designs cost less than complex ones. The basic expenses will be for any posts, rails, joists, fittings, screws, plates or other essential materials. Extra costs come with additional structures and décor such as railings, stairs, furniture, blinds or awnings, plants and other extras.

Material costs

Decking materials will make up most of your expenses when building a deck. Material costs can vary depending on your choices and your locality.

* Softwoods are often cheaper than hardwoods, but they must be treated to comply with building standards and extend their life.

* Hardwood costs more, but you get to enjoy its natural beauty and grain. If you can source it locally, it may cost less than timber that has to be imported from another area. Transportation costs may be higher due to its heavy weight and may take longer to work with, increasing labour costs.

* Composite decking is a low-maintenance option, but it usually costs more than timber. It is a combination of waste timber and recycled plastic that closely resembles natural timber.

Labour costs

If you’re not a DIY person, you’ll need to pay for labour. Any quotes you get from professional deck builders should include a detailed breakdown of labour costs. Check this when comparing them.

Site preparation

Clear the decks! Preparing the site for your deck is another cost to consider. You may be able to do part of this yourself, especially removing rubbish, but you could need to hire a skip bin or a rubbish removalist. Site preparation can also involve installing any necessary drainage, pest prevention treatment and excavation work for post holes or foundations.

Possible permits

Some local council areas require you to apply for permission to build a deck. You’ll need to check on this yourself or have a decking professional help you with the process. Getting permits will definitely involve some fees.

Deck maintenance

Deck finishes, particularly timber decking, will need to be treated with a sealant or a similar product to extend its life and enhance its appearance. This treatment will have to be repeated over the years to maintain the look and integrity of your decking. Apart from the material and labour costs for treatment and resealing, you might also have to pay for professional safety inspections.

The total cost

Adding up the total costs of constructing a deck will produce different results depending on all the factors outlined above. It could be as little as $3,200 or as much as $15,000.

You can get free quotes from local decking professionals from ServiceSeeking.com.au.